The Sciences Po MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2025 in France is offering full scholarships for outstanding students from Sub-Saharan Africa.
This comprehensive program aims to cultivate the next generation of leaders and provides financial assistance for living expenses, housing, tuition, and a monthly stipend. As a beneficiary, you will have access to networking opportunities, internships, and career services.
The fellowship is designed to support talented and aspiring leaders from diverse African backgrounds pursuing undergraduate or doctoral studies at Sciences Po, one of Europe’s premier universities.
The 2025 Sciences Po MasterCard Foundation Scholarship emphasizes leadership development and academic excellence. You must demonstrate exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential, and a commitment to community service to qualify for selection.
This scholarship presents a remarkable opportunity for African students who aspire to make a positive impact, as it promotes cross-cultural awareness and equips scholars with the tools to address global challenges.
To qualify for the Sciences Po MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2025, you must meet specific criteria, including being a resident of Sub-Saharan Africa and demonstrating financial need.
The application process includes submitting a personal statement, recommendation letters, and academic records. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews.
This scholarship provides invaluable learning experiences and financial support, preparing you to address socioeconomic challenges in your home country after graduation.
Scholarship Overview:
- Studies will take place in France.
- Sciences Po is the host university
- Open to students from Sub-Saharan Africa
- MasterCard Foundation is the scholarships sponsor
- Supports Master’s Degree studies
- The application deadline is December 1st, 2024
About Host Institution:
Sciences Po, founded in 1872, stands as the premier institution in France dedicated to the field of social sciences. For over 150 years, Sciences Po has been molding future public and private leaders.
Its Political Science program is internationally acclaimed, securing second in global rankings (QS, 2024). With a diverse student body of 15,000 individuals, half representing 150 different countries, Sciences Po offers a truly global educational experience.
Scholarship Benefits:
- You get assistance for travel to and from France
- Enjoy workshops on leadership and networking
- The Sciences Po Alumni Africa Division offers a mentoring program.
- Availability of generic student resources and assistance programs
- You enjoy support before departure and customized help once the arrival
- Official integration welcome program during the first several weeks
- Accommodation reserved in Paris
- A complete covering of your tuition fees
- You get an allowance for living costs
- Individualized social and academic support along the course of the study
- Opportunities for internships, job fairs, and career counseling in Africa
Documents You Need to Apply:
- You must show evidence of Sub-Saharan African Nationality
- Evidence of a bachelor’s degree from a cooperating university
- Your valid ID or passport Language competency test, if necessary
- Your Diplomas and transcripts from schools
- Documentation of financial need
- Filled-out application
- A resume or curriculum vitae
- Statement on your leadership style and dedication to Africa
- Two letters of recommendation
Selection Criteria:
- You need to have taken part in a mentorship or foundation program with a partner of the Mastercard Foundation.
- Need to apply to one of Sciences Po’s graduate schools for a two-year master’s program; not eligible for one-year, dual, or joint programs
- Prove your actual need for money with supporting documentation.
- Be devoted to bringing about change in Africa, particularly in the areas of politics, public policy, and societal transformations.
- Possess citizenship in a nation in Sub-Saharan Africa. Note that you are not eligible if you hold dual citizenship with nations in the European Economic Area.
- Requires completion of a bachelor’s degree from one of Sciences Po’s partner universities or enrollment in one currently
- Be younger than 35 when the master’s program begins.
- Neither have a master’s degree already earned nor be pursuing one.
How to Apply:
To apply for the scholarship, you will need to visit the Sciences Po website to find detailed information. Once there, you should create an account on the platform specifically designed for the application process.
Make sure to provide accurate information when filling out the online application form. Additionally, you will need to gather and submit necessary documents, such as recommendation letters, transcripts, and evidence of financial need.
It is crucial to compose a personal essay that highlights your dedication to Africa and your leadership experience. After completing the application, carefully review each section to ensure accuracy. Don’t forget to double-check your application before submitting it.
The deadline for submitting your application is December 1st, 2024, so be sure to apply before that date. Also, be prepared to receive further guidance on interviews and admissions decisions.
