If you’re an African graduate aiming to pursue a Master’s at the University of Oxford, the Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholarships 2025/26 offer an incredible fully funded opportunity. Combining tuition coverage, living cost grants, and leadership support, this award helps build Africa’s next generation of transformative leaders. In this post, we guide you through every detail: overview, eligibility, benefits, documents needed, application steps, plus FAQs and common pitfalls.
Scholarship Overview: Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholarships
The Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholarships are part of a partnership between the Mastercard Foundation, the Africa Oxford Initiative (AfOx), and the University of Oxford. They offer full-cost support for outstanding African graduates applying to taught postgraduate courses (Master’s) at Oxford for entry in the 2025/26 academic year.
Scholarship Categories
There are two main categories:
- Taught master’s scholarships across various subject areas at Oxford.
- MBA Graduate Scholarships are offered through Saïd Business School, covering full fees, living grants, leadership programs, and a service placement.
Types of Scholarships Available at Mastercard Foundation Scholarships
- Taught postgraduate (Master’s) scholarships: Full tuition fees plus a grant for living costs at the UKRI doctoral stipend rate, for the full duration.
- MBA Graduate Scholarships: Full MBA fees, a living cost grant, leadership and mentoring programs, and a service placement after graduation.
Courses Available & Eligibility for Mastercard Foundation Scholarships
Courses Available
- A wide range of Master’s courses across the University of Oxford.
- MBA via Saïd Business School.
Eligibility
- Must be an African citizen ordinarily resident in Africa.
- Strong academic background, typically a first-class or upper-second degree.
- Demonstrated leadership potential and commitment to Africa’s development.
- Willingness to contribute to AfOx values of inclusion, empathy, and service.
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Benefits of Mastercard Foundation Scholarships
- Complete tuition coverage for the full program.
- Living cost grant (at UKRI stipend rate or higher for MBA).
- Return flights, visa fees, health surcharge, and settling allowance.
- Leadership programs, mentorship, and networking opportunities.
- Ubuntu service placement after graduation for MBA recipients.
Criteria for Application
Selection is based on:
- Academic merit and potential
- Leadership experience and skills
- Alignment with AfOx values and themes
- Commitment to Africa’s development
7. Required Documents Checklist for Mastercard Foundation Scholarships
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificate
- Statement of purpose (emphasize leadership and Africa’s development)
- CV or resume
- Two or more academic references
- English language proficiency results (if required)
- Any course-specific materials
8. Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Full funding (tuition and living) | Very competitive |
| Comprehensive support (flights, visa, allowance) | Must first secure an Oxford offer |
| Leadership and mentoring opportunities | Requires outstanding academic and leadership profile |
| Post-study service placement opportunities | Strict application deadlines |
9. Step-by-Step Application Process for Mastercard Foundation Scholarships
- Choose your course (Master’s or MBA) and check deadlines.
- Submit your Oxford graduate or MBA application by the deadline.
- Secure an offer of admission—eligible candidates are automatically considered.
- Undergo selection based on academic and leadership potential.
- Receive scholarship confirmation between February and July.
- Prepare for your studies and post-study service opportunities.
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Deadline: Not Specified (Master’s), MBA January 7 2026
- For Master’s: follow your course deadline (usually December or January).
- For MBA: the deadline is January 7, 2026.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Missing the Oxford course deadline.
- Assuming a separate scholarship form is required—it is not.
- Overlooking the importance of leadership and Africa’s development in your statement.
- Submitting incomplete documents or late references.
Other Scholarships to Explore
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Conclusion
The Mastercard Foundation AfOx Scholarships 2025/26 provide life-changing opportunities for African students to pursue fully funded postgraduate study at the University of Oxford. With complete financial coverage, leadership training, and service opportunities, this scholarship equips future leaders to make lasting contributions to Africa’s development. Apply early, prepare your documents well, and make your case strong in highlighting both your academic excellence and your vision for impact.
FAQs
Q: Do I need a separate scholarship application?
No, eligible Master’s and MBA applicants are automatically considered once they apply to Oxford.
Q: Which courses are covered?
Most taught Master’s programs and the MBA.
Q: What does the scholarship cover?
Tuition, living allowance, flights, visa, health surcharge, and leadership development.
Q: When will I be notified?
Between February and July after applications close.
Q: What qualities are assessed?
Academic strength, leadership potential, commitment to Africa’s development, and alignment with AfOx values.
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