Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY 2018 (FULLY FUNDED)

Applications for Fall 2018 are now open

Deadline: February 1, 2018

The MasterCard Foundation has partnered with MSU to provide full tuition scholarships to undergraduate and Master's degree students from sub-Saharan Africa. Eligible students have demonstrated academic talent, are economically disadvantaged, and have a personal commitment to serve their countries or regions of origin.

Eligibility and Selection Criteria

The program is open to residents and citizens of Sub-Saharan African countries. Students who are already enrolled in degree programs in Africa or elsewhere are not eligible for the program. Students who are accepted to the program demonstrate the following qualities:

Prior completion of a bachelor's degree from an African University with academic achievements suggesting continued academic success as a graduate student.

Strong commitment to a professional path in line with an area of study that can positively impact Africa.

Demonstrated interest and capacity for serving others through engagement in volunteer activities in school, college, or community.

Leadership potential.  

Ability to cope with change, and interest in other countries and cultures.

Significant financial need and/or from lowest income bracket in country of origin.

Commitment to return to serve home country or region in ways that enhance economic growth and social development. 

Naming Guidelines

Students with multiple names or nicknames must be careful and consistent when submitting application materials (academic documents, English language test results, etc.). Inconsistency in the student name listed on application materials could delay or halt the processing of an application. Students should apply using their name as it appears or would appear on the student's passport.

Submitting Documents

MSU requires official academic documents to be sent by mail and do not accept academic documents sent via email as official.

Resubmitting an Application

Graduate applicants may request a change of semester by contacting their department. Applicants do not need to resubmit academic documents already received by the MSU Office of Admissions. Students only need to submit:

Missing materials or new academic information not provided with the initial application for admission;

An updated MSU MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program application and recommendation form

The updated application and recommendation form for the following fall are first made available in September on the Graduate Application page.

Admission Fees

Advanced Enrollment Deposit

If you are accepted as a MasterCard Foundation Scholar, you are NOT REQUIRED to submit the $250 Advanced Enrollment Deposit (AED). The MasterCard scholarship will cover this fee for those accepted to The MCF Scholars Program. Selected scholars will be directed to take steps to secure their F-1 Visa.

Financial Information

MasterCard Foundation Scholar candidates are NOT REQUIRED to submit financial information, including an Affidavit of Support, Statement of Financial Proof, or supporting bank statement. The only financial documentation required is contained in the MSU MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program application.
Advanced Enrollment Deposit
If you are accepted as a MasterCard Foundation Scholar, you are not required to submit the $250 Advanced Enrollment Deposit (AED). The MasterCard scholarship will cover this fee for those accepted to the Program. Selected scholars will be directed to take steps to secure their F-1 Visa.

Financial Information
MasterCard Foundation Scholar candidates are not required to submit financial information, including an Affidavit of Support, Statement of Financial Proof, or supporting bank statement. The only financial documentation required is contained in the MSU MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program application.

Expenses Covered by the Program

The MasterCard Foundation Scholarship provides comprehensive support for the completion of a bachelor's or master's degree. We cover:

Travel costs
Visa and SEVIS fees
Tuition and other MSU fees
Housing, food, and living expenses
Health insurance
Program Scholars are also provided with a laptop and backpack.

The Program does not provide support for dependents of Scholars.

Standardized Tests and English Language Requirements

Each department has varying requirements for standardized testing. Please check with your individual program and department to verify which tests and what scores you need for regular admission into the program.

How to Apply

Step 1: Apply to Desired Master's Program

To apply for a MasterCard Foundation Scholarship at MSU, prospective Scholars must first apply to the desired master's program through the program's department. After being accepted to the program, the Scholar must be nominated for a MasterCard Foundation Scholarship by a faculty member.

Only students who have been admitted to on-campus Master's Programs are eligible for this scholarship. A list of graduate programs is available at the MSU Graduate School website.

Save your applicant ID and password during the MSU application process; you will need it to complete the MCF Scholarship Application.

Step 2: Complete an English Proficiency Exam

Complete an English Proficiency Exam (TOEFL or IELTS) and any other examinations (for example GRE or GMAT) which the department or program you're applying to requires.

Students are strongly encouraged to take these exams no later than early-December 2017 for MSU to receive scores promptly.

Step 3: Submit All Supporting Documents to the Master's Program

Ensure that the master's program department receives all required supporting documents and official test scores.

Each department sets its own criteria for admission. Read the department's website carefully and then follow the department's instructions for graduate admission.

Submit all required official academic documents, letters of support, official test scores, etc. as indicated by the department and on the Application for Graduate Admission.

Communicate directly with the appropriate graduate department regarding the status of your application.

Step 4: Complete The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program Application

Complete the MCF Scholarship Application (.docx) and send it to your graduate department; it should arrive no later than February 1 each year. If submitting a hand-written scholarship application, ensure that the document is clearly legible after it has been scanned.

Step 5: Submit the Recommendation Form

Submit at least one Recommendation Form (.docx) from an individual who can confidently speak to your family's economic circumstances. Please select someone other than a family member (teacher, community member, etc.) who knows you well and can best answer the questions on the Recommendation Form. Do not submit more than two Recommendation Forms.

Application Timeline for August 2018

Official Dates To Be Announced

FEBRUARY: Application, all required documents, test scores and Scholarship Application due to Department/Program. Recommender Form(s) due to mcfs@msu.edu. 

MARCH: Finalist Interviews

APRIL: Notification of scholarship status

MAY: Awardee decision due date

Please note that all Admissions inquiries should be directed to mcfs@msu.edu.