University of Oxford Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholarships 2025/2026, United Kingdom

The University of Oxford, situated in the historic city of Oxford, England, stands as one of the most prestigious institutions of higher education worldwide. With its deep-rooted traditions intertwined with forward-thinking research and academic excellence, Oxford continues to attract brilliant minds from all corners of the globe. As the oldest university in the English-speaking world, it has long been a beacon of education, innovation, and cultural influence.

At the core of Oxford’s mission lies research, driving breakthroughs that tackle some of humanity’s most urgent issues. The university boasts state-of-the-art facilities and collaborates closely with industry leaders, government bodies, and non-profit organizations to push the boundaries of knowledge. From groundbreaking advancements in healthcare, climate science, and technology to impactful policy solutions, Oxford plays a vital role in shaping the future. Its involvement in creating the Oxford-AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine is just one example of its ability to transform global challenges into solutions. Moreover, Oxford’s unwavering commitment to sustainability and social responsibility highlights its dedication to making a lasting, positive difference for generations to come.

Scholarship Description:

Host University: University of Oxford
Host Country: USA;
Study Level: Master Level;
Scholarship Type: Full Funding;
Scholarship Worth: Check the details below;
Eligible Countries: International Students;
Majors Offered: Health Sciences, Food Sciences, Governance, Public Policy, Entrepreneurship, Sustainable Water and Energy Systems;
Application Deadline: January, 29^th, 2025.

Are you an ambitious student from Africa, driven to make a meaningful impact in your community? The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Oxford presents a unique opportunity for future African leaders to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree. In partnership with the Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx), this program aims to empower 400 talented individuals from Africa, supporting them to become catalysts of change in their countries and globally. The initiative is not only focused on academic excellence but also on nurturing leadership and social responsibility in line with Africa’s broader development objectives.

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The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers African students who have excelled academically and demonstrated outstanding leadership potential the chance to further their education at one of the world’s most prestigious institutions. With full financial support covering tuition, living expenses, and other related costs, this scholarship removes financial barriers, enabling scholars to focus on achieving their goals and contributing to the continent’s future success.

Scholarship Benefits :

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive scholarship package that ensures scholars can focus on their studies and leadership development without financial concerns. The benefits include:

Full Tuition Coverage: Complete funding for the entire Master’s program at Oxford.
Living Allowance: A generous stipend to cover all living expenses for the duration of the program.
Round-Trip Flight: A fully covered return flight from the scholar’s home country to the UK.
Visa and Health Surcharge: Full funding for student visa and UK immigration health surcharge fees.
Settling-In Support: A one-time allowance to assist with initial expenses upon arrival in the UK.
Thrive Fund: A dedicated fund for emergency financial assistance during the program.

More than just a scholarship, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers a transformative experience designed to equip students with the skills needed to address Africa’s challenges and make a global impact. Key elements of the program include:

Leadership and Impact Programme: Scholars participate in an intensive leadership development program that focuses on collaborative leadership. The curriculum empowers scholars to engage with the complex social, economic, and environmental issues facing Africa and the world at large.
Ubuntu Service Period: After completing their studies, scholars commit to a period of service in Africa, working with leading organizations on impactful projects that promote sustainable development and community resilience. This is a core part of the program’s mission to give back to the continent.
AfOx Alumni Network: Upon graduation, scholars join the Africa Oxford Initiative’s Alumni Network, which offers continued support through mentorship, career advice, and collaboration opportunities. This network helps African leaders stay connected and amplify their impact across various sectors.

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Eligibility Requirements

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is designed to identify exceptional African students who not only excel academically but also embody a commitment to Africa’s development and resonate with the values upheld by the Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx). To be eligible, candidates must meet the following criteria:

Academic Excellence: Applicants must have a demonstrated track record of academic success and a strong foundation in their chosen field of study.
Leadership Potential: Candidates should show a genuine commitment to leadership and social impact, with a history of involvement in community-driven projects that aim to bring about positive change.
Alignment with AfOx Values: Applicants must align with the key themes championed by AfOx, such as inclusivity, sustainability, and resilience, and demonstrate an understanding of how these values can shape Africa’s future.
Dedication to Africa’s Growth: The program seeks individuals who are deeply committed to contributing to the social, economic, and environmental progress of Africa, and who have concrete plans for making a difference on the continent.

To foster a diverse and inclusive environment, the program particularly encourages applications from underrepresented groups, including:

Female Scholars: The program actively promotes the involvement of women in leadership roles and higher education.
Refugees and Displaced Individuals: Scholarships are available to displaced persons, offering them an opportunity to continue their education and play a key role in rebuilding their communities.
Scholars with Accessibility Needs: The program ensures that students with disabilities have equal access to education, resources, and support throughout their academic journey.

Application Process

The application process for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Oxford is designed to ensure that only the most qualified and passionate candidates are selected. The process involves several stages to allow candidates to fully showcase their eligibility and potential. Here’s a breakdown of the application steps:

Submit Your Graduate Application: Candidates must first apply to a Master’s program at the University of Oxford through the graduate admissions portal. It’s important to note the specific deadlines for each program, which generally fall between November 15, 2024, and January 29, 2025.
Scholarship Screening and Interview: Those who meet the eligibility criteria will be shortlisted and invited for an interview by Oxford’s Student Fees and Funding Office. These interviews, conducted virtually, offer applicants the chance to discuss their academic achievements, leadership aspirations, and commitment to contributing to Africa’s development.
Receive Scholarship Offer: Successful candidates will be notified by July 2025. If selected, applicants will be awarded a comprehensive scholarship that covers all educational and living expenses, enabling them to focus fully on their studies and leadership growth.

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Key Application Dates for 2025/26 Intake:

Application Period: November 2024 – January 2025
AfOx Scholarship Interviews: February – April 2025
Final Scholarship Decisions: July 2025

This timeline ensures that applicants have sufficient time to prepare their materials and engage in meaningful discussions during the interview process.