University of Edinburgh Mastercard Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded Postgraduate Opportunities in the UK

Are you an ambitious young scholar from Sub-Saharan Africa dreaming of studying sustainability, climate action, or leadership at a top UK university? The University of Edinburgh Mastercard Scholarship 2026 provides an incredible opportunity to pursue a fully funded postgraduate degree, gain hands-on leadership experience, and become part of a network of change-makers dedicated to addressing global challenges.

This article will provide a complete guide on eligibility, benefits, application steps, and tips to maximize your chances of being selected for this prestigious scholarship.

🎓 Overview of the University of Edinburgh Mastercard Scholarship

The University of Edinburgh Mastercard Scholarship is designed for exceptional young people who have faced significant barriers in their education journey and are committed to making a meaningful impact in their communities. This on-campus postgraduate scholarship supports students pursuing a one-year Master’s degree in sustainability, climate leadership, or other approved disciplines at the University of Edinburgh in the United Kingdom.

Key Features of the Scholarship:

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🌍 About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program aims to empower young leaders from Africa to create sustainable change in their communities. At the University of Edinburgh, the program focuses on:

• Leadership Development: Scholars participate in leadership and mentorship programs to enhance their impact.

• Climate Action: The program emphasizes sustainability and equips scholars with the tools to address climate challenges in their countries.

• Community Engagement: Scholars are encouraged to apply their skills to solve real-world problems and lead initiatives that benefit society.

Through this scholarship, students gain access to world-class education, professional networks, and a strong support system to ensure academic and personal success.

🔎  Related Scholarship: Chevening Scholarships for African Students 2026

✅ Eligibility Requirements for the University of Edinburgh Mastercard Scholarship 2026

To qualify, applicants must meet the following requirements:

1. Academic Qualifications:

   • Must be eligible for admission to a relevant University of Edinburgh Master’s program.

   • Typically, a UK Second Class (Upper) Bachelor’s degree or equivalent is required.

2. Sub-Saharan African Citizenship:

   • Applicants must be residents, citizens, or refugees from Sub-Saharan Africa.

3. Barriers Overcome:

   • Must have faced significant barriers in accessing education (social, financial, health, or practical obstacles).

4. Leadership and Service:

   • Demonstrated community leadership, service, and impact.

5. Climate Focus:

   • Applicants must show interest or experience in sustainability or climate action.

6. Age Limit:

   • Must be 35 years or younger as of September 1, 2025.

7. Academic Background:

   • Applicants should not have previously completed a postgraduate degree.

   • Must not be enrolled in another university program while on this scholarship.

8. Special Consideration:

   • Female applicants, refugees, displaced persons, and scholars with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.

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💰 Scholarship Benefits

The University of Edinburgh Mastercard Scholarship is fully funded, covering the following:

• Tuition Fees: All approved Master’s program fees.

• Accommodation: On-campus housing to provide a secure and supportive living environment.

• Travel Costs: Airfare to and from the UK for the scholarship duration.

• Living Stipend: Monthly allowance for meals, transport, and personal expenses.

• Study Materials: Funding includes essential study resources, including a laptop.

• Climate Leadership Program: Mentorship and training to help scholars make a meaningful impact in climate and sustainability initiatives.

• Additional Support: Tailored support for scholars with disabilities based on individual needs.

This scholarship ensures that financial barriers do not prevent talented African students from accessing world-class education and leadership development opportunities.

🕒 Duration of the Scholarship

The scholarship covers a full one-year postgraduate program. Scholars are expected to:

• Engage fully in academic and co-curricular activities at the University of Edinburgh.

• Participate in the Mastercard Foundation climate leadership initiatives.

• Contribute to community-based sustainability projects in their home countries.

🔎  Related Resource: Commonwealth Master’s Scholarships 2026

📝 How to Apply for the University of Edinburgh Mastercard Scholarship 2026

Follow these step-by-step instructions to apply:

Step 1: Apply to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

• Visit the scholarship portal: University of Edinburgh Mastercard Scholarship Application

• Complete the application form, providing all requested personal, academic, and leadership information.

Step 2: Secure Admission to a Master’s Program

• You must either already have a conditional or full offer from the University of Edinburgh.

• If you have a secured place, indicate this in your Mastercard Foundation Scholarship application form.

Step 3: Submit Required Documents

• Undergraduate degree certificate and transcript (by December 7, 2025).

• Personal statement highlighting barriers overcome, leadership, and climate impact.

• Letters of recommendation (preferably two).

Step 4: Review and Submit Application

• Ensure all forms and documents are complete before submission.

• Applications must be submitted before November 21, 2025.

Step 5: Await Scholarship Decision

• Successful candidates will be contacted for further steps, including program enrollment and orientation.

📧 For any inquiries, contact: mcfsp@ed.ac.uk

🌟 Tips to Strengthen Your Application

1. Highlight Leadership: Show evidence of leadership in community or academic settings.

2. Demonstrate Impact: Include examples of projects or initiatives where you made a tangible difference.

3. Explain Barriers: Be honest and detailed about challenges faced in your education.

4. Climate and Sustainability: Emphasize your interest, ambition, or experience in environmental or sustainability projects.

5. Recommendation Letters: Choose referees who can clearly articulate your academic abilities, leadership, and community impact.

💬 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is eligible for the University of Edinburgh Mastercard Scholarship?

• Citizens, residents, or refugees from Sub-Saharan African countries under 35 years old with strong leadership potential.

2. Is IELTS required for admission?

• ❌ No, IELTS is not required for this scholarship.

3. What costs does the scholarship cover?

• Tuition, accommodation, travel, living stipend, and study materials including a laptop.

4. Can I apply if I have already completed a Master’s degree?

• ❌ No, applicants should not have completed a postgraduate program previously.

5. What is the deadline to apply?

• Applications close on November 21, 2025.

6. Are female, refugee, or disabled applicants encouraged?

• ✅ Yes, the program particularly welcomes these applicants.

7. How long is the scholarship valid?

• 1-year on-campus Master’s program.

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🎯 Conclusion – Why You Should Apply

The University of Edinburgh Mastercard Scholarship 2026 is more than financial support—it is a career-transforming opportunity for African students committed to making a positive impact.

• Gain world-class postgraduate education in the UK.

• Receive full financial support including tuition, accommodation, travel, and study resources.

• Join a network of future leaders in sustainability, climate, and social impact.

Applications are now open — submit your scholarship application today and take the first step toward a global leadership journey.

📌 Apply Here: University of Edinburgh Mastercard Scholarship Application

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