The AUB Mastercard Scholarship is one of the most prestigious fully funded scholarship opportunities available for postgraduate students from Africa and refugee communities. Offered through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program in partnership with the American University of Beirut (AUB), this scholarship covers full tuition, accommodation, living expenses, travel costs, and leadership development programs.
This opportunity is designed to empower academically talented students who face financial barriers and who demonstrate strong leadership potential and a commitment to driving positive change in their communities.
This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of everything you need to know about the AUB Mastercard Scholarship — including benefits, eligibility requirements, application steps, and selection criteria.
About the AUB Mastercard Scholarship
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a global initiative that aims to develop young leaders by expanding access to quality education. Through its partnership with AUB, the program supports students pursuing graduate studies while equipping them with leadership, professional, and community engagement skills.
Scholars selected under this program are expected to become agents of change who will contribute to economic growth, social development, and innovation in their home countries and beyond.
Scholarship Benefits
The AUB Mastercard Scholarship offers full financial coverage throughout the duration of the academic program, including:
1. Full Tuition Coverage
All tuition and academic-related fees are fully paid by the scholarship.
2. Accommodation and Living Allowance
Scholars receive housing support and monthly stipends to cover daily living expenses.
3. Travel Support
International travel costs, including airfare to and from the host country, are covered.
4. Learning Materials
Recipients receive laptops, books, and academic resources necessary for their studies.
5. Medical Insurance
Comprehensive health insurance coverage is provided throughout the duration of the program.
6. Leadership and Professional Development
Scholars benefit from leadership workshops, mentorship programs, community service activities, internships, and career development training.
Eligible Fields of Study
The scholarship supports a wide range of graduate programs offered by the American University of Beirut, including:
Master’s degree programs
Doctoral (PhD) programs
Selected online graduate programs (depending on availability)
Fields of study span disciplines such as public health, engineering, education, business, agriculture, social sciences, and development-related fields.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the AUB Mastercard Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
1. Nationality and Residency
Applicants must be citizens of African countries or refugees living in Africa.
2. Age Requirement
Candidates must be 35 years old or younger at the time of application.
3. Academic Excellence
Applicants must demonstrate strong academic performance from previous studies.
4. Financial Need
Candidates must show that they face financial barriers that prevent them from pursuing higher education.
5. Leadership Potential
Applicants should demonstrate leadership experience and a strong commitment to community service.
6. English Language Proficiency
Applicants must demonstrate readiness for graduate-level study in English through approved language proficiency tests or equivalent assessments.
7. Willingness to Participate in Enrichment Activities
Scholars must actively engage in leadership training, mentorship sessions, and community development projects organized by the program.
Who Should Apply?
This scholarship is ideal for students who:
Are academically talented but financially disadvantaged
Demonstrate leadership qualities and community involvement
Are committed to returning to their communities to contribute to development
Aspire to gain world-class education and global exposure
Application Process
Applicants must follow a structured process to be considered for the scholarship:
Step 1: Apply for Admission to AUB
Candidates must first submit a graduate admission application to their chosen academic program at AUB.
Step 2: Select the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
During the admission process, applicants must indicate interest in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program in the financial aid or scholarship section.
Step 3: Complete the Financial Aid Application
Applicants will be required to submit financial documentation to demonstrate financial need.
Step 4: Submit English Language Test Scores
Applicants must upload valid English proficiency results according to university requirements.
Step 5: Application Review and Interview
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or further assessment before final selection.
Required Application Documents
Applicants typically need the following documents:
Completed graduate application form
Academic transcripts and certificates
Personal statement or statement of purpose
Curriculum vitae (CV) or résumé
Letters of recommendation
English language proficiency test results
Proof of financial need
Copy of passport or national ID
Selection Criteria
Applications are assessed based on:
Academic merit
Leadership potential
Financial need
Commitment to community development
Communication skills and motivation
Alignment with the values of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Finalists are selected through a holistic evaluation process conducted by the scholarship committee.
Application Deadlines
Deadlines vary depending on the academic program and mode of study (on-campus or online). However, applications are usually due several months before the start of the academic year. Early application is strongly encouraged.
Why Study at the American University of Beirut?
The American University of Beirut is one of the leading universities in the Middle East and North Africa, known for academic excellence, research innovation, and global partnerships. AUB offers a diverse learning environment, state-of-the-art facilities, and internationally recognized degrees.
Students at AUB benefit from:
Highly qualified faculty
Modern research laboratories
Strong alumni networks
Global academic collaborations
Career development and internship opportunities
Impact of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program goes beyond academics by nurturing ethical leadership and social responsibility. Scholars participate in community service initiatives, social entrepreneurship training, and leadership development activities designed to create sustainable impact.
Graduates are encouraged to return to their communities equipped with knowledge, skills, and networks to drive meaningful change across sectors such as education, healthcare, technology, governance, and economic development.
Tips for a Successful Application
Start your application early and carefully review all requirements
Clearly articulate your academic goals and leadership experiences
Demonstrate your commitment to community development
Prepare strong recommendation letters from academic or professional referees
Ensure your English proficiency test results meet required standards
Double-check all documents before submission
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the AUB Mastercard Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. The scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, living expenses, travel costs, health insurance, and learning materials.
Can undergraduate students apply?
No. This scholarship is primarily for graduate (master’s and PhD) applicants.
Is work experience required?
Work experience is not mandatory but may strengthen your application.
Can I apply without an English test score?
Most programs require proof of English proficiency, though limited waivers may apply in certain cases.
Can I apply if I already hold another scholarship?
Applicants typically cannot hold another full scholarship concurrently.
Final Thoughts
The AUB Mastercard Scholarship offers a rare and life-changing opportunity for students from Africa and refugee backgrounds to pursue fully funded graduate education at a globally respected institution. With its comprehensive financial support, leadership development programs, and strong academic foundation, the scholarship equips scholars to become future leaders who contribute meaningfully to social and economic development.
If you meet the eligibility criteria and aspire to create impact beyond personal success, this scholarship could be your pathway to academic excellence and global leadership.