University of Edinburgh Offers Online Mastercard Scholarships for Sub-Saharan African Students
The University of Edinburgh has introduced the Edinburgh Online Mastercard Scholarship program to support academically talented students from Sub-Saharan Africa facing educational barriers. This initiative offers part-time online Master’s scholarships for three years and postgraduate Diploma scholarships for two years, allowing students to study without relocating.
Chris Oyeoku Okafor 
The University of Edinburgh has launched a new scholarship initiative to support academically talented students from Sub-Saharan Africa who face educational barriers. The Edinburgh Online Mastercard Scholarship program aims to provide part-time online Master's scholarships for three years and postgraduate Diploma scholarships for two years. This opportunity is specifically designed for individuals living or working in Africa, allowing them to pursue higher education without the need to relocate.
The scholarship program focuses on recruiting youth who have experienced significant challenges in accessing education. It offers an avenue for students to balance their academic pursuits with other responsibilities, such as work or family commitments. The Edinburgh Online Mastercard Scholarship covers full tuition fees, enabling scholars to concentrate on their studies.
Eligibility Criteria for the Edinburgh Global Mastercard Online Scholarship
To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must meet several criteria:
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Academic Requirements: Candidates should possess a UK Second Class (Upper) Bachelor’s degree or its equivalent, having graduated by September 2024. For Nigerian applicants, the minimum requirement is a good Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university, with a GPA of at least 3.5 out of 5.0, 60% or above, or an upper second-class degree.
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Barriers to Education: Applicants must demonstrate that they have faced substantial obstacles in their educational journey, which may include social, financial, personal, practical, or health-related challenges.
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Demographic Considerations: Preference will be given to applicants under 35 years old, those holding refugee status, or individuals with disabilities. The program actively encourages applications from female scholars and candidates from diverse backgrounds.
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Leadership and Community Impact: A strong record of leadership and community service is essential. Applicants should illustrate their commitment to addressing global issues, such as climate change.
Application Process and Important Dates
Prospective students interested in the scholarship must first apply to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. This initial application will determine eligibility for either the online Master’s program or the online Postgraduate Diploma. Applicants who have already secured a place in a degree program must indicate this in their scholarship application.
The application period for the 2025/26 academic year opens on October 1, 2024, and closes on November 8, 2024. The university encourages candidates to prepare their documents early to meet the application deadline.
Support and Resources for Scholars
The Edinburgh Global Mastercard Online Scholarship program will provide additional resources to enhance the educational experience. Scholars will receive an academic stipend for high-quality internet access and a laptop. They will also have opportunities to attend in-person gatherings and participate in the broader Scholars Program climate leadership initiatives.
A dedicated Online Coordinator will support students throughout their studies, particularly assisting those with disabilities to receive tailored help based on their needs.
For more information about the scholarship application process, interested individuals can contact the University of Edinburgh via email at mcfsp@ed.ac.uk.
