ASU Mastercard Foundation Postgraduate Certificate Scholarship Programme 2025/2026 for Young Africans
Africa's future lies in its youth. Recognising this, the Mastercard Foundation, in partnership with Arizona State University (ASU), offers a transformative scholarship programme for ambitious young Africans seeking to drive development in their home countries. The ASU Mastercard Foundation Graduate Certificate Scholarship Programme 2025/2026 represents a unique opportunity to acquire specialised skills and leadership, empowering scholarship recipients to become agents of change.
Opportunity for Cape Verdeans: A Closer Look
For young people from Cape Verde, this programme represents a gateway to a world-class education and a global network. The scholarship not only covers tuition fees, but also offers comprehensive financial support for living expenses, travelling and other study-related costs. This ensures that scholarship holders can fully concentrate on their studies without the financial burden.
Comprehensive Benefits of the Stock Exchange
The ASU Mastercard Foundation Scholarship offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Full coverage of tuition fees for the postgraduate certificate programme.
- Financial support for living expenses such as accommodation and food.
- Return air tickets between the country of origin and the United States.
- Health insurance during the period of study.
- Opportunities for leadership development and networking.
- Mentoring and academic support.
Eligibility Criteria: Who Can Apply?
The programme is looking for exceptional candidates who demonstrate a strong commitment to Africa's development. Eligibility criteria include:
- Be a citizen of an African country (Cape Verde included).
- Be under 35 at the time of application.
- Hold a bachelor's degree from a recognised institution.
- Demonstrate academic excellence and leadership potential.
- Proven commitment to community service and the development of Africa.
- Proficiency in English (spoken and written).
Examples of Relevant Areas of Study
Although the programme covers a variety of areas of study, some areas particularly relevant to Cape Verde's development include:
- Renewable Energies: Essential for Cape Verde's energy sustainability.
- Water Resources Management: Crucial to facing the challenges of water scarcity.
- Information and Communication Technologies (ICT): Driving innovation and economic growth.
- Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Fostering the development of new companies and solutions.
- Public Health: Improving people's well-being and quality of life.
Application Process: Step by Step
The application process is rigorous and competitive. Applicants should carefully prepare their documents and follow the instructions provided on the ASU website. The main steps include:
- Research the postgraduate certificate programmes offered by ASU and identify those that align with your career goals.
- Gather all the necessary documents, including academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, statement of purpose and CV.
- Fill in the online application form on the ASU website.
- Submit all documents by the deadline.
- Participate in an interview, if selected.
Tips for a Successful Application
To increase your chances of being selected, consider the following tips:
- Start preparing your application early.
- Write a clear and concise statement of purpose that highlights your qualifications, objectives and commitment to Africa's development.
- Get strong letters of recommendation from teachers or mentors who can vouch for your abilities and potential.
- Proofread your application carefully before submitting to make sure there are no mistakes.
- Demonstrate your commitment to community service and the development of Africa through concrete examples.
Impact and Testimonials: Success Stories
The Mastercard ASU Foundation scholarship programme has already transformed the lives of many young Africans. Scholarship holders have returned to their home countries to lead development initiatives, set up businesses and contribute to economic and social growth. For example, a fellow from Ghana used his knowledge of renewable energies to develop affordable solar energy solutions for rural communities. Another grantee from Nigeria founded a technology start-up that is providing online education services for underprivileged students.
These examples demonstrate the tangible impact of the programme and its potential to empower young Africans to become leaders and agents of change.
Conclusion: Invest in Your Future and the Future of Cape Verde
The ASU Mastercard Foundation Postgraduate Certificate Scholarship Programme 2025/2026 is an unmissable opportunity for ambitious young Cape Verdeans looking to acquire specialised skills, develop their leadership and contribute to the development of their country. By investing in your education, you are investing in the future of Cape Verde and Africa. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your life and make a difference.
For more information and to apply, visit the Arizona State University website: https://asu.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_ekxwPxEccGrqAGq
Application deadline: 01 June 2025.
