The Earth University Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 is a premier fully funded undergraduate opportunity for talented youth from disadvantaged backgrounds in Sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. Focused on Sustainable Agriculture and Entrepreneurship, the program awards 120 scholarships annually to foster ethical leadership. It covers all expenses, including tuition, housing, airfare, and stipends. Candidates must demonstrate significant financial need, strong academic records, and a commitment to returning to their home countries to drive socioeconomic change. The application window for the 2026 cycle closes on January 31, 2026.
Earth University Mastercard Scholarship 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host Country | Costa Rica |
| Study Abroad | Study Abroad for Nigerians/Africans |
| Category | Undergraduate Scholarships |
| Eligible Countries | Sub-Saharan African Countries (including Nigeria) |
| Reward | Full Tuition, Housing, Stipend, Airfare & Laptop |
| Key Criteria | Financial Need & High School Graduate |
| Application Deadline | January 31, 2026 |
Earth University Mastercard Scholarship 2026 Details
The Earth University Mastercard Foundation Scholarship is more than a financial award; it is a leadership incubator.
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It targets young people who possess the talent and energy to innovate but lack the financial means to attend university. The curriculum is uniquely hands-on, set in Costa Rica’s tropical environment.
Benefits of the Earth University Mastercard Scholarship 2026
Tier 1: Full Platinum Academic & Living Coverage
- Complete Tuition: 100% coverage of all academic fees for the duration of the undergraduate program.
- Living Expenses: Comprehensive coverage for on-campus housing, nutritious meals, and a monthly stipend for personal items.
- Travel & Tech: Provision of a high-quality laptop and round-trip airfare from the student’s home country to Costa Rica.
Tier 2: Health, Wellness & Resource Package
- Medical Support: Full medical and accident insurance coverage throughout the study period.
- Learning Materials: All required textbooks and essential laboratory/field equipment are provided.
- Disability Support: Specialized accommodations and resources for students with physical disabilities.
Tier 3: Professional & Leadership Development
- Career Services: Access to specialized entrepreneurship workshops, career counseling, and mentorship.
- Global Network: Membership in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program alumni network for lifelong professional connections.
Eligibility Requirements for Earth University Undergraduate Scholarship 2026
- Academic/Leadership: Applicants must have an excellent secondary school record and proven leadership involvement in community or extracurricular activities.
- Study Status: Must be a high school graduate with no prior university-level education.
- Visa Status: Must be a resident of a Sub-Saharan African country (e.g., Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, etc.).
- Program Admission: Must demonstrate significant financial need (lowest two income quintiles) and commit to returning to Africa to foster development.
How to Apply for the Fully Funded Earth University Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 (Step by Step)
- Apply for Program: Register on the Earth University admissions portal and complete the online application form with personal and academic details.
- Automatic Evaluation: Submit the family socioeconomic form and supporting financial documents for initial need-based screening.
- Eligibility Assessment: Shortlisted candidates will be invited to sit for aptitude/psychometric exams and participate in individual/group interviews.
- Notification of Award: The financial aid committee evaluates the combined admission and scholarship profile; final decisions are communicated by June.
Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. In which country is Earth University located?
Earth University is located in Costa Rica, specifically in the Guácimo and Guanacaste regions.
2. Is the scholarship only for agriculture students?
Yes, the scholarship is specifically for the undergraduate degree in Agricultural Sciences, though the curriculum heavily includes entrepreneurship and leadership.
3. Does the scholarship cover the cost of a laptop?
Yes, all Mastercard Foundation Scholars are provided with a laptop as part of their essential learning materials.
4. Do I need to know Spanish to apply?
No, while the university is in a Spanish-speaking country, the application process for African students accounts for English proficiency, and intensive Spanish training is often provided to scholars.
5. What is the age limit for this scholarship?
The program typically targets young high school graduates, generally under the age of 25, though specific age exceptions can be made based on individual circumstances.
6. Can I apply if I have already started a degree in Nigeria?
No, this scholarship is strictly for first-time undergraduate students who have not yet enrolled in or completed a university degree.
7. How much is the monthly stipend?
The specific amount of the monthly stipend varies to cover basic personal needs and is adjusted for the cost of living in Costa Rica.
8. Are refugees eligible to apply?
Yes, the program gives priority to displaced persons, refugees, and students with disabilities who face significant barriers to higher education.
9. When does the academic year start?
Selected scholars for the 2026 cycle will begin their studies in January 2026 (following the final decision in June 2025).
10. Do I have to pay back the scholarship after graduation?
No, it is a grant, not a loan. However, there is a moral commitment to return to your home country or region to apply your skills for social and economic development.
