Requirements

Who can apply (all required)

• You hold the citizenship of an African country. People with dual citizenship that includes a country outside Africa cannot apply.

• You are completing, or already hold, a bachelor's degree from a university on Sciences Po's list of institutions.

• Or you have a bachelor's degree (or are completing one) and took part in a recognised bridge or mentoring programme from an approved organisation.

• Or you have a bachelor's degree (or are completing one) and hold, or have held, UNHCR refugee status.

• You are under 35 years old on 1 September of the year you apply.

• You do not already hold, and are not studying for, a master's degree.

• You are applying to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for the first time.

Academic and admission conditions

• You must meet Sciences Po's minimum academic results for your home university's country.

• You must apply to, and be admitted to, a two-year master's programme at Sciences Po through the International Graduate Admissions Procedure.

• Dual degrees, one-year master's programmes, the Master of Journalism and the Joint Master in Journalism and International Affairs are not eligible.

Who cannot apply

• Students currently enrolled at Sciences Po.

• Students enrolled in, or graduated from, a French higher education institution.

Documents for the eligibility check

• Proof of identity (passport, national ID card, UNHCR card or travel document).

• Your bachelor's degree certificate, or proof of current undergraduate study at a listed university.

• If your university is not listed: proof of your bachelor's studies plus a certificate from a recognised bridge programme, or proof of refugee status.

Selection focus

• Having faced big barriers to education, such as money, social or location barriers.

• A strong commitment to Africa's development and to becoming a changemaker.

• Strong potential for leadership and positive impact.

• Sciences Po gives particular consideration to young women, refugees and displaced people, and people with disabilities.