African Leadership University Mastercard Scholarship 2026. The Mastercard Foundation, in partnership with African Leadership University (ALU), is offering fully funded scholarships for outstanding African students seeking undergraduate (and selected postgraduate) education in Africa.
The ALU Mastercard Scholarship 2026 removes all major financial barriers to university education by covering tuition, accommodation, living stipends, travel costs, study materials, and a laptop for successful applicants.
This scholarship targets young Africans with leadership potential, strong academic ability, and a demonstrated commitment to transforming the African continent.
African Leadership University Mastercard Scholarship Summary
- Scholarship Provider: Mastercard Foundation
- Host Institution: African Leadership University (ALU)
- Study Location: Africa
- Scholarship Category: Undergraduate Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: African countries
- Scholarship Value:
- Full tuition
- Accommodation
- Living stipend
- Travel costs
- Laptop and study materials
- IELTS Requirement: Not required
- Application Deadline: March 1, 2026
About the ALU Mastercard Foundation Scholarship
The African Leadership University Mastercard Scholarship is designed to give access to world-class education for talented African students who face financial hardship or systemic barriers to higher education.
ALU operates a non-traditional learning model that emphasizes:
- Real-world problem solving
- Leadership development
- Entrepreneurial thinking
- Self-directed and mission-driven learning
Since the start of the partnership with the Mastercard Foundation:
- 768 students have been enrolled as Mastercard Scholars at ALU
- 68% of beneficiaries are young women
- 19% are refugees or displaced persons
- About 1% are young persons with disabilities
This demonstrates a strong commitment to inclusion, equity, and leadership development across Africa.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Requirements)
To be considered for the ALU Mastercard Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Be a citizen of an African country
- Demonstrate significant financial need
- Show leadership potential, resilience, and ambition
- Be passionate about Africa’s social and economic development
- Apply for an undergraduate (or eligible postgraduate) programme at African Leadership University
Academic excellence is important, but character, leadership mindset, and purpose carry substantial weight in the selection process.
What Does the Scholarship Cover?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at ALU is fully funded, covering:
- Full tuition fees
- On-campus accommodation
- Monthly living stipend
- Travel costs (including flights where applicable)
- Laptop
- Study materials and learning resources
Successful scholars can focus entirely on their education without financial stress.
How the Selection Process Works
You do not apply separately for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship.
Once you:
- Apply for admission to ALU
- Complete your application fully and accurately
You are automatically considered for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program if you meet the eligibility and financial-need criteria.
How to Apply for African Leadership University Mastercard Scholarship 2026
Follow these steps carefully:
- Visit the African Leadership University (ALU) scholarship webpage
- Apply for an undergraduate or postgraduate programme at ALU
- Complete the admission application with honest and detailed responses
- Submit all required documents before the deadline
- Eligible applicants will be assessed automatically for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship
Important:
While the public scholarship deadline is March 1, 2026, ALU admission applications typically close earlier (around November 1, 2025). Early application is strongly advised.
Application Deadline
- ALU Admission Deadline: November 1, 2025
- Scholarship Reference Deadline: March 1, 2026
Applying early significantly improves your chances.
Final Advice to Applicants
From years of guiding African students into funded opportunities, successful ALU Mastercard Scholars usually:
- Tell a clear personal story
- Show evidence of leadership and community impact
- Demonstrate how ALU aligns with their long-term vision for Africa
- Communicate financial need honestly and convincingly
This scholarship is not just about grades. It is about purpose, leadership, and potential.
If you believe you have what it takes, apply early and apply thoughtfully.
