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Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the American University of Beirut

ByTafadzwa Bere

Introduction

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the American University of Beirut (AUB) is a transformative initiative designed to nurture and empower young leaders from Africa and Lebanon, including refugees. By offering comprehensive scholarships for both on-campus and online graduate studies, the program aims to equip scholars with the knowledge and skills necessary to drive positive change in their communities and beyond.

Scholarship Provider

The program is a collaboration between the Mastercard Foundation and AUB. The Mastercard Foundation is committed to advancing education and financial inclusion to catalyze prosperity across Africa. AUB, established in 1866, is a leading institution of higher education in the Middle East, dedicated to fostering critical thinking, leadership, and service.

Eligibility Criteria

On-Campus Graduate Scholarships:

  • Master’s Degrees:
    • Open to citizens of African countries, Lebanese citizens, and refugees residing in Lebanon or on the African continent.
  • PhD Degrees:
    • Open to citizens of African countries and refugees residing on the African continent.

Online Graduate Scholarships:

  • Open to citizens of African countries.

General Criteria for All Applicants

  • Demonstrated academic excellence in prior studies.
  • Financial need exceeding personal resources.
  • Commitment to community service and leadership.
  • Willingness to participate in all additional learning experiences and workshops mandated by the Scholars Program.
  • Aged 35 years or younger.
  • Proof of English language proficiency by specified deadlines.

Levels of Study

  • On-Campus Scholarships: Available for both Master’s (thesis and non-thesis tracks) and PhD programs.
  • Online Scholarships: Available for select Master’s programs, including:
    1. Master’s in Engineering Management
    2. Master’s in Computing in Education
    3. Master’s in Business Administration
    4. Master in Nursing Administration and Management
    5. Executive Master in Healthcare Leadership

Areas of Study

The scholarship supports a wide range of academic disciplines offered at AUB, with specific online programs as listed above.

Scholarship Benefits

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides comprehensive support, including:

  • Full tuition coverage.
  • Monthly stipend.
  • Medical insurance.
  • Housing (for on-campus students).
  • Books and laptop provision.
  • Travel expenses and flights for students from sub-Saharan Africa.

Additionally, scholars engage in workshops, courses, and fieldwork beyond their degree requirements to enhance their leadership and community engagement skills.

Number of Awards

The program has expanded to include numerous scholarships across various academic levels, aiming to support a new cohort of transformative leaders, innovators, and changemakers.

Application Process

  1. On-Campus Graduate Scholarships:
    • Applications are currently open for Fall 2025-26.
    • Deadline: March 13, 2025.
    • Applicants must apply for both the scholarship and their chosen academic program at AUB.
    • Detailed application procedures are available on the AUB website. aub.edu.lb
  2. Online Graduate Scholarships:
    • Applications are currently open for Fall 2025-26.
    • Deadline: May 16, 2025.
    • Applicants must apply for both the scholarship and their chosen online academic program at AUB.
    • Specific application guidelines are provided on the AUB website. aub.edu.lb

Required Documents

Applicants typically need to submit:

  • Completed application forms for both the scholarship and the academic program.
  • Academic transcripts and certificates.
  • Proof of English language proficiency.
  • Personal statement or essays demonstrating leadership and community service.
  • Financial need documentation.
  • Recommendation letters.

Important Dates

  • On-Campus Graduate Scholarships Application Deadline: March 13, 2025.
  • Online Graduate Scholarships Application Deadline: May 16, 2025.

Selection Process

Candidates are evaluated based on academic performance, financial need, leadership potential, and commitment to community service. The selection process may include interviews and additional assessments.

Contact Information

For further inquiries:

  • Phone: +961-1-350000 (ext. 4950)
  • Location: AUB, Reynolds Hall, 5th floor, Offices 508, 513, 515, 517, 519
  • Email: [email protected]

Application Checklist

Complete scholarship application form.

Apply Here

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