Application Deadline: January 31, 2026
LOCATION: Costa Rica
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at EARTH University provides educational opportunities to young people from disadvantaged communities in Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean. In addition to providing scholarships for young leaders, the program at EARTH integrates services such as mentoring, career counselling, service-learning opportunities, and internships. Following successful completion of EARTH University’s four-year program, the majority of Mastercard Foundation Scholars return to their countries as part of a growing movement of leaders committed to transforming global food systems and contributing to sustainable livelihoods across the continent.
ELIGIBILITY:
Applicants must:
Be a resident and a graduating high school student of a country within Sub-Saharan Africa;
Demonstrate financial need correspondent to that of the lowest two quintiles of your country;
Have very strong academic results within your school system;
Have a record of leadership and extracurricular involvement;
Maintain a strong desire to return to Africa to assist and work towards enhanced regional socioeconomic development;
Be graduating from a recognized secondary school, or have completed the necessary academic requirements; and
Fulfill the necessary English requirements (dependent on country);
Application Documents:
Fill out the Online Application Form
Three recommendation letters: Upload to the platform 3 recommendation letters from non-family members, using the provided PDF format. You can download the format by entering the platform.
Transcripts from the last 3 years of high school: Upload your high school transcripts from your last three completed years of high school (just high school; no transcripts from university or college).
High school diploma: Upload your high school diploma or certification of completion of studies
Supporting documents: Upload any other supporting documents: certificates of foreign language, special achievements, awards, completion of courses or training, etc.
Interested and qualified? Go to Mastercard Foundation on admissions.earth.ac.cr to apply
BENEFIT:
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Earth University will receive holistic support, which includes:
Tuition and functional fees;
Laptops, books, and other learning materials;
Reasonable accommodation and meals;
Medical insurance;
Stipend;
Transport to and from home;
Access to leadership training;
Access to entrepreneurial training;
Psycho-social support, career counseling, and mentorship;
Disability needs will be reasonably catered for.
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