2015/2016 MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at Michigan State University, USA.

Application Deadline: JANUARY 4, 2016

The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program is a $500 million, 10-year initiative to educate and prepare young people – particularly from Africa – to lead change and make a positive social impact in their communities.

The Scholars Program provides young people from economically disadvantaged communities who have demonstrated academic talent and leadership potential with access to quality and relevant education.

The Program will serve an estimated 15,000 young people at the secondary and university levels. It has a particular focus on Africa, which is the world’s youngest continent and is experiencing unprecedented growth

Eligibility Requirement:

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.

• Strong academic performance to date in secondary school suggesting continued academic success as an undergraduate student.
• An interest in and capacity for give-back, evidenced by commitment and engagement outside the classroom in the school 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 in this role.
• 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.

Application Instructions:

• In order to apply for The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at Michigan State University, you MUST also apply to MSU and arrange to have required test scores and supporting materials sent to the University.
  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.
• Students must be admitted to Michigan State University to be considered for this scholarship. To maximize consideration, apply early and ensure that the University receives all required admission application materials and test scores by January 4, 2016. To monitor the status of your application for admission you can log in to your personalized admissions portal at beaspartan.msu.edu with your MSU Applicant ID and password.
• Complete this scholarship application and upload it electronically via your online admissions portal no later than January 4, 2016. You may submit the scholarship application at the same time as your MSU application. If you are submitting a hand-written scholarship application, you should ensure the document and scanned copy are clearly legible. Fill out this application with as much detail as possible. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
• Provide a copy of the MCF Recommendation Form to an appropriate individual per the form instructions. Have your recommender complete this form and email it as an attachment to mcfs@msu.edu no later than January 4, 2016.
• Please select someone other than a family member who knows you well and can confidently speak to your family’s economic circumstances to complete the Family Background Form. Be sure to select someone whom we can contact in order to ensure your eligibility.

Timeline:

• JANUARY 4, 2016    Application for admission and all supporting academic materials (official transcripts, mark sheets, external exams, test scores) received by MSU
• JANUARY 4, 2016    Submission deadline for MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at MSU Undergraduate Scholarship Application and Recommender Form
• MARCH 2016    Finalist Interviews
• APRIL 1, 2016    Notification of Scholarship Status
• MAY 1, 2016    Awardee decision due date

 Forms

• Application Form, due January 4, 2016
  
• Recommendation Form, due January 4, 2016
  
• Family Background Form, due January 4, 2016

To apply visit: beaspartan.msu.edu.
For more information on application requirements visit: www.admissions.msu.edu/admission/international_requirements.asp.

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at Michigan State University