Sciences Po in Paris, one of the world's top universities for politics, international affairs and public policy, is part of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. It fully funds talented young Africans with financial need to complete a two-year master's degree, preparing them to lead change in Africa.
Deadline: The 2027 dates have not been published yet. Last year, applications opened in early October and closed on 4 January 2026. Expect a similar deadline in early January 2027, so start preparing now.
What the scholarship covers
The programme covers the full financial needs of selected Scholars for both years of the master's, together with:
- Support and mentoring throughout your studies
- Leadership and community activities with other Mastercard Foundation Scholars
- A waiver of the Sciences Po application fee for eligible applicants
Who can apply
You must meet all of these:
- Citizen of an African country. You are not eligible if you also hold a citizenship from outside Africa.
- Bachelor's degree (completed or in progress) from one of Sciences Po's partner universities, or enrolled in a partner bridging programme. Check the official list first.
- Financial need, with supporting documents
- Under 35 when the master's begins
- Not already holding or studying for a master's degree
- A clear commitment to change in Africa, especially in public policy and major political, environmental and social transitions
- Not a current Sciences Po student
Eligible programmes
- Two-year master's programmes at any of Sciences Po's seven graduate schools (for example International Affairs, Public Affairs, Journalism, Law, Management and Innovation, Urban Studies, Research)
- Not eligible: one-year master's, dual degrees and joint master's programmes
Language
The programme has no separate language test, but you must meet the English or French requirement of the master's you choose (usually at least C1).
How to apply
- Check the partner list. Confirm your bachelor's university or bridging programme is on Sciences Po's list.
- Request eligibility for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program on the Sciences Po admissions platform.
- Apply to a two-year master's at Sciences Po through the international graduate admissions procedure.
- Submit financial documents showing your need.
- Wait for the admission decision first, then the scholarship decision (last year: admissions from mid-December to early April, scholarship results in early May).
Keep in mind
- The offer is only valid for the year you are selected. Deferring makes you ineligible.
- If your university is not a partner, look at other options such as the Émile Boutmy Scholarship for non-EU students.
Related:
Official programme page · FAQ