Graduate Student Eligibility and Selection Criteria

The program is open to residents and citizens of Sub-Saharan African countries. Students must be first-time applicants to MSU. Transfer students are not eligible for the program.

• Prior completion of a Bachelors 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.
• An interest in and capacity for give-back, evidenced by commitment and engagement on campus, in professional pursuits and/or community.
• Manifest ethical behavior and strong character essential to joining The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Network.
• Ability to deal with change, uncertainty, and adversity, as well as interest in other countries and cultures, necessary to succeed as a student overseas and represent one’s home country
• Significant financial need and/or from lowest income bracket in country of origin
• Commitment to give back in ways that enhance the economic growth and social development of Africa.
• Learn how to apply for the scholarship.

Download Scholarship Application Forms

• Scholarship Application in Word format
• Scholarship Application in PDF format (to come)

Instructions

1. In order to apply for the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at Michigan State University, you MUST first apply to the desired masters program through the department that hosts your program. Only students in on-campus Masters Programs are eligible for this scholarship.  A list of graduate programs is available at: grad.msu.edu/department.

   IMPORTANT: Be sure to save your Applicant ID and password during the MSU application process. You will need your Applicant ID to complete the MCF Scholarship Application.

2. Make arrangements to take an English Proficiency Exam (TOEFL or IELTS), and any other required exams (GRE, GMAT, depending on departmental requirements). 

   Students are strongly encouraged to take these exams by mid-December, 2012 in order for MSU to receive scores on time.

3. Ensure that the department receives all required supporting documents and official test scores by February 15, 2013.  Each department sets its own criteria for admission. Read the department's website carefully and then follow the department’s instructions for graduate admission. Make arrangements to send all required official academic documents, letters of support, official test scores, etc. as indicated by the department and on the Application for Graduate Admission. 

   Only students admitted to Michigan State University will be considered for this scholarship. You should communicate with the appropriate graduate department regarding the status of your application.

4. Complete this graduate student scholarship application and send it to your graduate department to arrive no later than February 15, 2013. If submitting a hand-written scholarship application, ensure the document is clearly legible.