Applications are now open for the February 2027 intake of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the African Leadership College of Higher Education (ALCHE). The fully funded scholarship is open to eligible young Africans who demonstrate academic potential, leadership qualities, financial need, and a commitment to creating positive change in their communities and across Africa. Register for 2nd intake of our coaching class for the Duolingo English Test  

The program is offered through a partnership between ALCHE and the Mastercard Foundation. ALCHE focuses on developing young people through academic education, entrepreneurship, leadership development, and practical skills, while the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides talented young Africans with access to higher education and opportunities to develop their potential as future leaders and changemakers.

SCHOLARSHIP BENEFITS

Successful scholars will receive a full-ride scholarship covering:

·       Full tuition fees for the entire duration of the undergraduate program

·       Free on-campus accommodation

·       Daily meals

·       Travel expenses to and from campus

·       Leadership and entrepreneurship training

·       Mentorship and career development support

·       Access to a global network of changemakers and innovators

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

·       Be a citizen of an African country

·       Demonstrate strong academic performance and leadership potential

·       Show commitment to community service and positive change in Africa

·       Demonstrate financial need and require full scholarship support

·       Meet the admission requirements for an undergraduate program at ALCHE

Age Requirement

Applicants must be at least 17 years old when they begin their studies.

·       Applicants who are 17 years old may be required to attend an interview to assess their readiness for university-level studies.

·       Applicants who are 17 but will turn 18 during their first year of study do not require this interview.

·       The age requirement applies to the start of studies, not the date of application.

AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

Eligible students can apply for the following undergraduate programs at ALCHE:

·       BSc (Hons) Computer Science

·       BSc (Hons) Software Engineering

·       BSc (Hons) Entrepreneurial Leadership

·       BSc (Hons) International Business and Trade

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Applicants should prepare and submit the following documents:

·       Completed online application form

·       National examination transcripts

·       Secondary school transcripts and certificates

·       Valid passport or national ID

·       Proof of English proficiency. Register for 2nd intake of our         Coaching class for the IELTS

·       Personal statement or essay describing leadership experience, community involvement, and future goals

·       Academic or community-based recommendation letters

·       Additional transcripts, diplomas, certificates, achievements, and recommendation letters, where applicable

Applicants who do not have an internationally recognized English proficiency test such as IELTS or TOEFL may be allowed to provide results from a national English examination as proof of English proficiency found here

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APPLICATION PROCEDURES

Interested applicants should apply through the official ALCHE application link provided at the bottom of this page.

Applicants should:

1.     Complete the online application form accurately.

2.     Provide all required personal and academic information.

3.     Upload the required supporting documents.

4.     Submit the application before the applicable deadline.

5.     Provide any additional information required for consideration for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

Applicants must first meet the admission requirements of ALCHE. Eligible applicants will then be asked to provide additional information to determine their eligibility for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is intended for students who demonstrate a combination of financial need, academic potential, leadership qualities, and a commitment to community impact.

The scholarship is specifically designed to support young Africans who have the potential to contribute to positive social and economic development within their communities and across the continent.

APPLICATION DEADLINE

International Students: November 14, 2026

Mauritian Students: January 23, 2027