African Leadership University Mastercard Scholarship 2026: How to apply for Fully Funded Scholarship
African Leadership University and Mastercard Foundation offer fully funded Africa scholarship
The African Leadership University (ALU) Mastercard Scholarship 2026 is now open, offering fully funded undergraduate scholarships to outstanding young Africans facing financial hardship. Backed by the Mastercard Foundation, the programme covers tuition, accommodation, living stipends, travel costs, and study materials, including a laptop.
With a March 1, 2026 deadline, the scholarship is positioned as one of the most comprehensive education funding opportunities in Africa, targeting students with leadership potential who are committed to driving the continent’s development.
What the ALU Mastercard Scholarship Covers
Unlike partial tuition awards, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ALU provides end-to-end financial support, removing nearly all barriers to university education.
The scholarship fully covers:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Living stipends
- Travel costs
- Laptop and study materials
Importantly, no IELTS is required, making the programme accessible to students from diverse educational backgrounds across Africa.
Why the ALU Mastercard Scholarship Matters
The African Leadership University uses an innovative learning model that integrates academic study with real-world problem-solving. Students are trained not just to earn degrees, but to become leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers across Africa.
Since the partnership began, 768 students have benefited from the ALU–Mastercard collaboration. Of this number:
- 68% are young women
- 19% are refugees or displaced persons
- About 1% are students with disabilities
This data highlights the programme’s strong focus on inclusion, equity, and leadership development.
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Who Is Eligible for the ALU Mastercard Scholarship 2026?
Eligibility is focused on talent, leadership potential, and financial need, not nationality quotas or standardized tests.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Be African
- Demonstrate financial need
- Show leadership potential
- Be passionate about Africa’s development
- Apply for an undergraduate or postgraduate programme at ALU
Applicants are assessed holistically, meaning academic performance, personal story, and leadership vision all play key roles in selection.
How to Apply for the African Leadership University Mastercard Scholarship
The application process is integrated into ALU’s admissions system, making it straightforward for candidates.
Step-by-step application process:
- Visit the official African Leadership University admissions portal
- Apply for an undergraduate or postgraduate programme
- Complete and submit the ALU application
- Eligible applicants are automatically considered for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
While admission applications close November 1, 2025, the scholarship deadline is March 1, 2026.
No separate scholarship application is required.
Study in Africa with Global-Standard Education
The ALU Mastercard Scholarship challenges the narrative that world-class education must happen outside Africa. Scholars receive international-standard education within Africa, while building networks and skills tailored to solving African challenges.
Education analysts say programmes like this are critical to retaining talent within the continent while empowering youth to lead Africa’s economic and social transformation.
FAQ
What is the African Leadership University Mastercard Scholarship?
It is a fully funded scholarship programme sponsored by the Mastercard Foundation in partnership with ALU, supporting African students with tuition, accommodation, stipends, travel, and learning materials.
Who can apply for the ALU Mastercard Scholarship 2026?
Any African student who demonstrates financial need, leadership potential, and commitment to Africa’s development can apply.
Is the ALU Mastercard Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition, accommodation, living stipends, travel costs, a laptop, and study materials.
Is IELTS required for the ALU Mastercard Scholarship?
No. IELTS is not required for this scholarship.
Do I need a separate application for the scholarship?
No. Students who apply and gain admission to ALU are automatically considered for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
What is the deadline for the ALU Mastercard Scholarship 2026?
The scholarship deadline is March 1, 2026, while ALU admission applications close November 1, 2025.
Can refugees apply for the scholarship?
Yes. Refugees and displaced persons are strongly encouraged to apply, and have been supported in previous cohorts.
Does the scholarship support postgraduate students?
Yes. The programme supports both undergraduate and postgraduate students admitted to ALU.