The African Leadership University (ALU) Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 is a comprehensive, fully funded financial aid program targeting high-potential African youth. It is designed to remove financial barriers for students who demonstrate exceptional leadership potential but face economic hardship, including refugees, displaced persons, and young women. The scholarship covers 100% of tuition, accommodation, travel, and provides a living stipend and a laptop. Applicants must apply for admission to ALU’s undergraduate or postgraduate programs to be automatically considered. The application deadline for the 2026 cycle is March 1, 2026.
African Leadership University Mastercard Scholarship 2026 Summary Table
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Host | Mastercard Foundation |
| Study Abroad | Study in Africa (Rwanda/Mauritius) |
| Category | Undergraduate & Postgraduate Scholarships |
| Eligible Countries | All African Countries |
| Reward | Full Tuition, Stipends, Travel, Laptop & Housing |
| IELTS Requirement | Not Required |
| Application Deadline | March 1, 2026 |
African Leadership University Mastercard Scholarship Details
The partnership between ALU and the Mastercard Foundation is built on a mission to develop 3 million ethical and entrepreneurial African leaders.
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This scholarship is not just a financial grant but a commitment to transformative education, integrating real-world problem-solving with rigorous academic learning.
Benefits of the African Leadership University Mastercard Scholarship
Tier 1: Full Foundation Excellence Awards (Comprehensive Coverage)
- Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program: This is the primary tier offering a 100% full-ride scholarship. It covers all costs associated with the degree, including international travel from the home country to the campus and a high-spec laptop for study.
Tier 2: Leadership & Inclusion Grants (Targeted Support)
- Women in Leadership Award: Dedicated funding within the Mastercard pool to ensure at least 68% of scholars are young women.
- Displaced Youth Support: Specialized financial and logistics packages for refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) to ensure they can access campus safely.
Tier 3: General Academic & Financial Aid
- ALU Financial Aid: For students who may not meet the specific Mastercard Foundation criteria but demonstrate academic merit and significant financial need, covering varying percentages of tuition.
Eligibility Requirements for African Leadership University Undergraduate Scholarship 2026
- Academic/Leadership: Must demonstrate significant leadership potential and a passion for the development of the African continent.
- Study Status: Applicants must be seeking admission to an undergraduate or postgraduate degree program at ALU.
- Visa Status: Must be a citizen of an African country; specific provisions are made for refugees and displaced youth within Africa.
- Program Admission: Must demonstrate financial need and have overcome significant socio-economic barriers to education.
How to Apply for African Leadership University Undergraduate Scholarships 2026 (Step by Step)
- Apply for Program: Visit the ALU admissions portal and submit a complete application for your chosen degree program.
- Automatic Evaluation: There is no separate application for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship; all eligible applicants are automatically screened.
- Eligibility Assessment: During the admission process, you will be required to provide evidence of financial need and answer leadership-based prompts.
- Notification of Award: Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews, and final award letters will be sent alongside the admission offer.
Application Deadline: March 1, 2026
CLICK HERE TO APPLY
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Is there a separate application form for the Mastercard Scholarship?
No. Candidates who complete their admission application to ALU are automatically considered for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
2. Do I need to take the IELTS or TOEFL?
No, English proficiency exams are generally not required for admission to ALU as the university conducts its own internal assessments.
3. Does the scholarship cover the cost of a laptop?
Yes, a laptop and all necessary study materials are provided to all Mastercard Foundation Scholars.
4. Who is eligible for the scholarship?
Young Africans who demonstrate leadership potential, academic talent, and can prove financial hardship or economic adversity.
5. Can postgraduate students apply for this scholarship?
Yes, the 2026 cycle includes funding for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs at ALU.
6. Are there specific spots for refugees?
Yes, approximately 19% of the scholar population is reserved for refugees and displaced young persons.
7. What does “Full Financial Coverage” mean?
It means the scholarship pays for 100% of tuition, on-campus accommodation, monthly living stipends, and travel to/from your home country.
8. Where are the ALU campuses located?
ALU has major hubs and campuses in Kigali, Rwanda, and Pamplemousses, Mauritius.
9. What is the deadline for the 2026 intake?
The application deadline for the upcoming academic cycle is March 1, 2026.
10. Is there an age limit for the scholarship?
The scholarship is primarily intended for young leaders; typically, undergraduate applicants should be under 25 at the time of application.
