For many aspiring graduate students, Mastercard Foundation Scholars program not only offers the opportunity to pursue a master’s degree but also eases the burden of financial constraints and limited access to resources.
This program goes beyond just a scholarship, it offers benefits such as networking opportunities, leadership development, and mentorship. Regardless of your background, you can take advantage of these resources. As you read through this article you will find key information on how to take advantage of this scholarship.
What is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars program?
The program aims to nurture talents, academic excellence, and leadership in specified fields of study. It is a scholarship or an educational support initiative from different organizations or universities designed to assist students with financial aid, resources, and mentorship, to enable them to pursue higher education, particularly at the master’s level.
However, each organization has its varying criteria, objectives, and benefits. To get specific details or information, you must look into the particular foundation or institution offering the Master Foundation Scholars program.
Eligibility criteria for the scholarship
To be considered eligible for the Master Foundation Scholars program, you have to meet the following criteria:
Academic excellence:Â As an applicant, you will need to demonstrate strong academic performance to be eligible. Your test scores and high school grades should at least be standardized to reflect good performance.
Leadership skill: The scholarship is easily attracted to candidates who exhibit leadership skills, which may be needed through extracurricular activities or community service.
Language proficiency: The relevant language is required depending on the language of instruction. Nevertheless, proficiency in English is usually considered the most basic.
Age barrier: Some programs require certain age limits, especially for recent high school graduates. It’s important to check the age restriction before setting out to apply.
Enrollment in partner institution: To be eligible for the Master Foundation Scholars program, you need to be accepted into the Partner College or university. This is to ensure that you have a place in the institution.
Likely Challenges faced by scholars during their academic studies
Although the program provides comprehensive financial assistance, that covers tuition, and living expenses to alleviate financial stress, you may still face unexpected costs related to personal expenses, textbooks, and housing.
Another area that could be a challenge to you as a scholar is cultural adjustment. Most students experience language barriers and homesickness before adapting to the new environment.
However, the orientation programs, cultural sensitivity training, and counseling services will help you adapt with time.
Also, academic pressure could come from transitioning to the rigorous academic environment which outrightly leads to stress or anxiety.
To find help on this, you have access to program support such as mental health resources, tutoring services, and academic advising.
Other  possible challenges encountered by scholars include:
- Loneliness and isolation
- Balancing responsibilities
- Limited access to resources
Given the potential challenges above, it is advisable to plan effectively to manage these situations when they arise during the program.
Now that you’ve had an overview of the Master Foundation Scholars program, let’s further discuss the opportunities and requirements from schools in Canada and the US.
University of British Columbia
The University of British Columbia ranks among the top 20 public universities, the school is a center for research and teaching with campuses near Vancouver and Okanagan in British Columbia Canada.
The university provides scholarships for talented African students seeking to pursue master’s degrees at the University of British Columbia with full coverage of tuition, travel costs, and living expenses.
Students with academic excellence or leadership potential dedicated to social change are empowered by this program.
Benefits of Mastercard scholarship in Canada
- You will get full support for travel expenses and immigration
- Health insurance
- Comprehensive financial coverage for textbooks, accommodation, and tuition
- Access to the global MasterCard foundation
- Access to social entrepreneurial fund
Eligibility
- Must commit to returning to Africa as a change agent
- Must be 35years old or younger
- A bachelor’s degree holder
- Possessing leadership qualities and skill
Requirement
- Two reference letters on official letterhead
- A signed declaration form and a completed checklist
- Submit a CV detailing your work experience and education
End date: 31 October 2024
Visit the website here to submit your application
Also Read:Â Â Top 6 available Scholarships for refugees in the USA and UK
University of California, Berkeley
University of California, Berkeley is the premier public university and one of the world’s leading academic institutions.
Eligibility criteria
- Ability to demonstrate leadership potential
- Coming from a disadvantaged environment
- Demonstrating academic excellence
- Demonstrate commitment to give back to your community
Benefits
- Comprehensive scholarship equivalent to cost includes travel, tuition, Berkeley student fees, SEVIS fees, food, housing, visa, and living expenses.
- Cohort signature programs focused on leadership and entrepreneurship
To begin your application process, click here.
For further inquiries, contact: [email protected]
Related Posts:
