The Mastercard Foundation AUB Scholarship is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarship opportunities available to academically talented students from Africa and other eligible groups. Offered through a partnership between the Mastercard Foundation and the American University of Beirut (AUB), the program aims to develop future leaders who are committed to creating positive change in their communities.
The scholarship goes beyond financial support. Scholars receive leadership training, mentorship, community engagement opportunities, and access to a diverse academic environment that helps prepare them for impactful careers.
For students seeking a fully funded master’s degree or other eligible postgraduate study opportunities, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at AUB remains one of the most competitive and rewarding scholarships available. The program continues to accept applications for selected Fall 2026–2027 graduate scholarship tracks.
What Is the Mastercard Foundation AUB Scholarship?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the American University of Beirut is a scholarship initiative designed to provide access to quality higher education for talented young people who face financial barriers.
The program focuses on:
- Academic excellence
- Leadership development
- Community impact
- Social entrepreneurship
- Civic engagement
- Professional growth
In addition to degree studies, scholars participate in workshops, field experiences, leadership activities, and development programs intended to strengthen their capacity as future changemakers.
About the American University of Beirut
The American University of Beirut is one of the leading higher education institutions in the Middle East.
Founded in 1866, AUB has built a strong reputation for:
- Academic excellence
- Research innovation
- International partnerships
- Graduate employability
- Leadership development
The university attracts students from dozens of countries and offers programs across multiple disciplines.
Why the Mastercard Foundation Partners with AUB
The Mastercard Foundation seeks to expand access to education for talented students who demonstrate leadership potential and commitment to community development.
Through its partnership with AUB, the Foundation supports students who can become agents of positive change across Africa and beyond. The program emphasizes both academic achievement and social impact.
Scholarship Benefits
One of the major attractions of the Mastercard Foundation AUB Scholarship is its extensive financial and developmental support.
Depending on the scholarship track and program, selected scholars may receive:
Full Tuition Coverage
The scholarship covers the full cost of approved academic programs.
Accommodation Support
Many scholars receive assistance with housing expenses.
Living Stipend
Financial support helps students cover daily living costs while studying.
Health Insurance
Selected students may receive health coverage during their studies.
Educational Materials
Support may include books, academic resources, and technology required for study.
Leadership Development
The scholarship includes structured leadership training activities.
Networking Opportunities
Students gain access to a community of scholars, alumni, professionals, and mentors.
Community Engagement Activities
Participants contribute to projects that support social and economic development.
Career Development Support
Professional development programs help scholars prepare for future employment opportunities.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the scholarship category and academic program.
For many graduate scholarship opportunities, applicants may include:
- Citizens of countries across Africa
- Lebanese citizens
- Refugees living in Lebanon
- Refugees residing on the African continent
Applicants are generally expected to demonstrate:
- Strong academic performance
- Financial need
- Leadership potential
- Commitment to community service
- Interest in creating positive social impact
Specific academic requirements depend on the selected degree program.
Available Scholarship Categories
On-Campus Master’s Scholarships
These scholarships support eligible students pursuing master’s degrees at AUB.
Both thesis and non-thesis master’s programs may be included depending on university offerings.
Online Graduate Scholarships
Selected online master’s programs may also be eligible under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Online programs provide flexibility for professionals who may not be able to relocate to Lebanon immediately.
Fields of Study
Available programs may vary annually.
Common areas of study include:
- Public Health
- Engineering
- Education
- Business Administration
- Agriculture
- Environmental Sciences
- Computer Science
- Development Studies
- Social Sciences
- Nursing
Applicants should review the latest program list through the official AUB admissions portal before applying.
Key Selection Criteria
The scholarship is highly competitive.
Selection committees generally consider:
Academic Excellence
Strong academic records are important.
Financial Need
Applicants should demonstrate genuine financial constraints.
Leadership Potential
Evidence of leadership roles strengthens applications.
Community Engagement
Volunteer work and social impact activities are highly valued.
Commitment to Development
Applicants should show how they intend to contribute to their communities after graduation.
Required Documents
Most applicants should prepare:
- Completed online application
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificates
- Passport or identification document
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Personal statement
- Recommendation letters
- English proficiency results where required
Program-specific requirements may vary.
English Language Requirements
Applicants may be required to demonstrate English proficiency through approved tests.
Accepted assessments may include:
- IELTS Academic
- TOEFL iBT
- Duolingo English Test
- Other approved examinations
Requirements vary according to the chosen program.
How to Apply for the Mastercard Foundation AUB Scholarship
Step 1: Choose an Eligible Program
Review available graduate programs offered through AUB.
Select a program aligned with your academic background and career goals.
Step 2: Complete the AUB Application
Submit an application for admission through the university’s graduate admissions portal.
Step 3: Apply for Financial Support
During the application process, select the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program where available.
Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents
Provide all required academic and personal documents.
Step 5: Submit Before the Deadline
Late applications are generally not considered.
Step 6: Await Evaluation
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews or additional assessment stages.
Important Application Deadlines
Application deadlines can vary according to:
- Scholarship category
- Academic program
- Admission cycle
For the 2026–2027 cycle, AUB has announced that applications for selected on-campus master’s scholarships and online graduate scholarships are open. Applicants should verify the exact deadline for their chosen program through the official scholarship portal because dates may change between admission cycles.
Tips for a Successful Application
Start Early
Begin gathering documents several months before the deadline.
Focus on Leadership
Demonstrate examples of leadership and initiative.
Highlight Community Impact
Explain how your work has benefited others.
Write a Strong Personal Statement
Clearly communicate:
- Your goals
- Your challenges
- Your vision for the future
Obtain Quality References
Choose referees who know your academic and professional strengths well.
Common Reasons Applications Are Rejected
Applicants may be unsuccessful due to:
- Incomplete documentation
- Failure to meet eligibility requirements
- Weak personal statements
- Poor academic records
- Missing deadlines
- Insufficient evidence of leadership or community engagement
Benefits Beyond Financial Support
Many scholars consider the non-financial benefits equally valuable.
Participants gain:
- International exposure
- Professional mentorship
- Leadership training
- Alumni networking opportunities
- Career development resources
The program’s emphasis on social impact distinguishes it from many traditional scholarship schemes.
Why African Students Should Consider This Scholarship
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is specifically designed to support talented young Africans and empower them to contribute to sustainable development across the continent.
Graduates often return to work in:
- Education
- Healthcare
- Government
- Technology
- Entrepreneurship
- Nonprofit organizations
The scholarship aligns closely with long-term development goals and leadership advancement.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the Mastercard Foundation AUB Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. The scholarship provides extensive financial support for eligible scholars, including tuition and additional benefits depending on the scholarship category.
Can African students apply?
Yes. Students from eligible African countries form a major target group of the program.
Is IELTS required?
English proficiency requirements vary by program. Applicants should check the specific requirements for their chosen degree.
Does the scholarship cover living expenses?
Many scholarship packages include support for living costs and accommodation.
Are online programs eligible?
Yes. Selected online graduate programs may be covered under the scholarship initiative.
Is work experience required?
Requirements differ among academic programs. Applicants should review individual admission criteria.
Can refugees apply?
Certain scholarship tracks are available to eligible refugee applicants living in Lebanon or on the African continent.
How competitive is the scholarship?
The program is highly competitive because it attracts talented applicants from multiple countries.
Where can I apply?
Official application information is available through the AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program page:
https://www.aub.edu.lb/mcf/Pages/default.aspx
Final Thoughts
The Mastercard Foundation AUB Scholarship 2026–2027 offers much more than financial assistance. It combines world-class education, leadership development, mentorship, and community engagement into one comprehensive scholarship experience.
For ambitious students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, financial need, and a commitment to positive social impact, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the American University of Beirut remains one of the most valuable fully funded scholarship opportunities available today.
Applicants should review the latest eligibility criteria, prepare their documents carefully, and submit complete applications before the official deadlines to maximize their chances of selection.