American University of Beirut Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 | Fully Funded
If you are an ambitious young person from Africa or Lebanon with a dream of earning a graduate degree from one of the most respected universities in the Middle East, then you need to pay close attention to what we are sharing with you today. The American University of Beirut Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 is now open for applications, and it is one of the most generous and comprehensive fully funded scholarship programs available to African students and refugees this year.
This is not just a scholarship that pays your tuition and leaves you to figure out the rest. It is a full package that takes care of almost every financial concern a student could have, while also investing in your personal and professional growth. From leadership training to community engagement activities, this program is designed to turn academically gifted young people into confident and capable agents of change in their communities and countries.
In this article, we will walk you through everything you need to know about the AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026, including who can apply, what the scholarship covers, available degree programs, how to apply step by step, and the deadlines you must not miss.
About the American University of Beirut (AUB)
Before we get into the scholarship details, it is worth knowing a little about the institution offering it. The American University of Beirut, widely known as AUB, was founded in 1866 and is located in Beirut, Lebanon. It is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in the Arab world and the broader Middle East region.
AUB operates on the American liberal arts model of higher education and is accredited in the United States by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The university has more than 8,000 students and over 800 faculty members. It offers more than 130 programs leading to bachelor’s, master’s, MD, and PhD degrees across six faculties: Arts and Sciences, Medicine, Engineering and Architecture, Agricultural and Food Sciences, Health Sciences, and Business.
AUB has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence, research output, and producing graduates who go on to become influential leaders in government, business, healthcare, and civil society across the world. Studying at AUB means you are part of a vibrant, diverse, and intellectually stimulating environment in the heart of Beirut, a city known for its culture, history, and dynamic energy.
About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a global initiative funded by the Mastercard Foundation, one of the largest private foundations in the world. The foundation works with partner universities across Africa, North America, Europe, and the Middle East to provide fully funded scholarships to talented young people from Africa who have the potential to become transformative leaders but lack the financial means to access quality higher education.
The program is currently active at over 30 universities globally, including top-ranked institutions like Cornell University, Duke University, Sciences Po, the University of British Columbia, and the American University of Beirut. The partnership between the Mastercard Foundation and AUB focuses specifically on graduate-level education, with a strong emphasis on health sciences, engineering, and related disciplines.
The core philosophy of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is rooted in developing the next generation of ethical, innovative, and socially responsible leaders who are committed to giving back to their communities. Scholars are not just expected to excel academically but to use their education to drive positive change at home once they graduate.
What is the AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026?
The AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 is a fully funded scholarship program offered by the American University of Beirut in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. It is open to young people from African countries, Lebanese nationals, and refugees and displaced people living in Lebanon who are seeking to pursue graduate-level education at AUB.
The scholarship is hosted primarily by AUB’s Faculty of Health Sciences, though it extends to other faculties depending on the program of study. The program is available for on-campus master’s degrees, online graduate degrees, and PhD studies. Applications for the 2026 academic year are currently open, and the deadlines vary depending on the type of program you are applying to.
What makes this scholarship stand out from many others is that it combines financial support with a structured program of personal and academic development. Scholars are required to participate in workshops, leadership training sessions, community engagement activities, and fieldwork projects that complement their degree coursework and help them grow as well-rounded individuals and future leaders.
Scholarship Benefits: What Does It Cover?
One of the most asked questions about any scholarship is: what exactly does it cover? Here is a breakdown of what the AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 provides to selected scholars:
Full Tuition Coverage
The scholarship covers all tuition fees for your degree program at AUB. You will not be required to pay anything out of pocket for your academic courses. This alone is a significant financial relief, given that graduate tuition at international universities can cost tens of thousands of dollars per year.
Accommodation and Housing
The program provides accommodation support for selected scholars. You will have a place to stay while you study, removing one of the biggest logistical and financial worries for students studying abroad.
Monthly Living Stipend
To help cover daily expenses, scholars receive a monthly living stipend. This ensures that you can focus fully on your studies and program activities without having to worry about finding part-time work to cover your living costs.
Travel Allowance
The scholarship includes coverage for travel costs, which typically means your international flights from your home country to Lebanon and back at the end of your program are taken care of.
Laptop
Scholars receive a laptop, which is an important tool for academic research, assignments, and participation in online activities related to the program.
Health Insurance
Your health and wellbeing matter. The scholarship includes health insurance coverage for scholars throughout the duration of their studies at AUB.
Leadership and Personal Development
Beyond the financial benefits, scholars gain access to a rich suite of non-academic programming including leadership development workshops, mentorship sessions, career planning support, civic engagement activities, and community service projects. These experiences are an integral part of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program experience and are designed to help scholars become impactful, purpose-driven leaders after graduation.
Available Degree Programs and Levels
The AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 is available across multiple degree levels and formats. Here is a look at what is currently open:
On-Campus Master’s Scholarships
These are full-time, in-person master’s degree scholarships offered at AUB’s campus in Beirut. Both thesis and non-thesis tracks are available. Scholars studying on campus benefit from direct access to AUB’s world-class facilities, laboratories, research centers, faculty, and student community. The application deadline for on-campus master’s scholarships for the Fall 2026 to 2027 academic year is March 12, 2026.
Online Graduate Scholarships
For students who cannot relocate to Beirut but still want to benefit from AUB’s quality education and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, there are fully funded online graduate scholarships available. This is an excellent option for working professionals or those with family responsibilities who want to pursue a graduate degree without leaving their home country. The application deadline for online graduate scholarships for Fall 2026 to 2027 is May 18, 2026.
PhD Scholarships
The scholarship also covers PhD-level studies in select academic disciplines. PhD programs available under this scholarship include Theoretical Physics, Biomedical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Environmental and Water Resources Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and Epidemiology. These programs are designed to equip scholars with advanced research skills and the ability to contribute to solving Africa’s most pressing scientific and developmental challenges.
Undergraduate Scholarship
There is also an undergraduate scholarship component available through this program, though the primary focus of the 2026 intake is at the graduate and doctoral level. Prospective undergraduate applicants are encouraged to check the official AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program page for updated information.
Eligible Countries
The AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 is primarily aimed at students from African nations and Lebanon. The following is a general list of eligible countries and groups:
All African countries are eligible. This includes but is not limited to Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, Senegal, Cameroon, South Africa, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Egypt, Sudan, Tunisia, Morocco, Algeria, Libya, Somalia, Djibouti, Mauritania, Comoros, and all other nations within the African continent.
Lebanese nationals are also eligible to apply. In addition, refugees and displaced people currently living in Lebanon can apply for on-campus scholarships. This reflects the Mastercard Foundation’s commitment to inclusive education and its recognition that some of the most talented and motivated young people face the greatest barriers to accessing quality education due to circumstances beyond their control.
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
To be considered for the AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026, you must meet a specific set of eligibility criteria. These criteria are designed to identify the most promising candidates who can both benefit from the program and contribute meaningfully to their home communities after graduation.
Citizenship or Residency Requirements
You must be a citizen of an African country, a Lebanese national, or a refugee or displaced person living in Lebanon. Dual nationals may also be eligible, but you should check the specific requirements on the official AUB website.
Age Requirement
Applicants must be 35 years old or younger at the time of application. This ensures that the program supports young leaders who are at an early stage of their professional and academic journeys.
Academic Excellence
Candidates must have a strong academic record. For PhD applicants, a master’s degree or equivalent qualification is typically required. For master’s applicants, a bachelor’s degree with a strong grade point average is expected. Selection is based on academic promise, and the program looks for students who have demonstrated intellectual curiosity and a commitment to learning.
Financial Disadvantage
The scholarship is specifically aimed at talented individuals who come from financially disadvantaged backgrounds and would not be able to pursue graduate education without financial support. Applicants will need to demonstrate financial need as part of the selection process.
Leadership Potential
Beyond academic achievement, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program places a very strong emphasis on leadership potential. You should be able to demonstrate through your application, personal statement, and references that you have taken initiative in your community, shown leadership in your academic or professional life, and are committed to using your education to create positive change.
Commitment to Community
One of the defining values of this scholarship is the expectation that scholars will give back to their communities. Applicants should have a genuine desire to return to their home countries and contribute to development in their regions after completing their studies. This “go back and give back” philosophy is central to the Mastercard Foundation’s mission.
English Language Proficiency
Since AUB’s primary language of instruction is English, you will need to demonstrate that you are ready for university-level studies in English. Accepted English proficiency tests include the TOEFL iBT, IELTS Academic, GRE Verbal, GMAT Verbal, the AUB English Proficiency Test (AUB-EN), and the Duolingo English Test (DET). For programs that require them, the GRE or GMAT may also be required in full.
Required Documents
While the full list of required documents is available on the official AUB graduate application portal, here is a general overview of what you will typically need to prepare:
You will need your official university transcripts from all previous academic institutions you have attended. A completed AUB online graduate application form is required. You will also need to submit your scores from an accepted English proficiency test such as TOEFL or IELTS. A personal statement explaining your academic background, career goals, and commitment to community development is essential. Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees will also be required. Additionally, you will need to complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program survey, which is a separate document from the main application form. A financial aid application will also need to be completed after your graduate admission application has been submitted and processed.
It is very important to note that for an application to be considered complete, you must have submitted all three components: the AUB online graduate application, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program survey, and your English proficiency test scores (RUSE scores). Missing any one of these will result in an incomplete application.
How to Apply for the AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026
The application process has several steps and it is important to follow them carefully. Here is a clear, step-by-step guide:
Step 1: Complete the AUB Online Graduate Application
Start by creating an account on the AUB online graduate application portal and filling in all the required fields. You will need to upload your supporting documents, including your transcripts, personal statement, test scores, and letters of recommendation. Make sure all documents are in order before submitting.
Step 2: Select the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Within the financial opportunities section of the AUB online graduate application, you must specifically select the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. This is the step that links your admission application to the scholarship consideration process. Do not skip this step.
Step 3: Complete the AUB Financial Aid Application
After you submit your graduate admission application, you will receive an automated email from the AUB Financial Aid Office within one to three working days informing you that your financial aid application has been activated. You must then complete this financial aid application as well.
Step 4: Complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Survey
This is a separate survey specific to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. It gives you the opportunity to share more about your background, leadership experiences, community activities, and your vision for your future impact. Take your time with this survey as it plays a significant role in the selection process.
Step 5: Submit Before the Deadline
Make sure all components of your application are submitted before the deadline. For on-campus master’s scholarships, the deadline is March 12, 2026. For online graduate scholarships, the deadline is May 18, 2026.
You can start your application by visiting the official program page. Click the link below to go directly to the application page:
Apply Now for the AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026
Application Deadlines Summary
Here is a quick summary of the key deadlines for the AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026:
On-campus master’s scholarships (thesis and non-thesis) for Fall 2026 to 2027: Deadline is March 12, 2026.
Online graduate scholarships for Fall 2026 to 2027: Deadline is May 18, 2026.
It is strongly recommended that you begin your application well before the deadline to allow time to gather your documents, request recommendation letters, and prepare a strong personal statement.
Why You Should Apply for This Scholarship
There are many scholarship programs around the world, but few come close to the level of comprehensive support and personal development that the AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholarship offers. Here are a few reasons why this opportunity is genuinely worth pursuing:
First, this is a fully funded scholarship. You will not need to worry about tuition, accommodation, food, travel, or health care. The program takes care of your full financial needs while you study, allowing you to pour your energy into learning and growing.
Second, AUB is a world-class institution. Earning a degree from AUB carries significant weight in the job market and in academic circles across the Middle East, Africa, and beyond. Your AUB qualification will open doors for you throughout your career.
Third, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program goes beyond academics. The leadership development, mentorship, and community engagement components of the program mean that you will graduate not just with a degree but with practical skills, a professional network, and the confidence to lead change in your community.
Fourth, the program connects you with a global network of Mastercard Foundation Scholars from universities all over the world. This alumni community is a powerful resource for collaboration, career opportunities, and lifelong friendships.
Fifth, studying in Beirut gives you the chance to experience life in one of the most culturally rich and historically significant cities in the world. Lebanon is a country with a complex and fascinating history, and living there as a student will broaden your worldview in ways that no classroom can fully replicate.
Tips for a Strong Application
Competition for this scholarship is fierce, so putting together the best possible application is essential. Here are some practical tips to help you stand out:
Start early. Do not wait until the last few days before the deadline to start your application. Gather your documents and write your personal statement well in advance so you have time to review and revise.
Be specific in your personal statement. Scholarship committees read hundreds of applications. What will make yours memorable is not generic statements about wanting to make a difference but specific examples of leadership you have shown, challenges you have overcome, and a clear vision for how you plan to use your degree to impact your community.
Choose your recommenders wisely. Pick referees who know your academic work and character well and who can write enthusiastically and specifically about your abilities and potential. Give them enough time to write a thoughtful letter.
Prepare your English proficiency test in advance. Do not leave your IELTS or TOEFL score to the last minute. Book your test early, prepare thoroughly, and aim for a score that reflects your true ability in academic English.
Show your commitment to going back and giving back. The Mastercard Foundation places enormous value on scholars who are committed to returning to their home countries and contributing to development. Make this clear in your application and be genuine about it.
Contact Information
If you have specific questions about your application or need clarification on any aspect of the program, you can reach the AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program team through the following:
You can also visit the official AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program page for the most up-to-date information, announcements, and application links.
For broader information about the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program across all partner institutions globally, you can visit the Mastercard Foundation official website.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholarship open to all African countries?
Yes. The scholarship is open to nationals of all African countries. Whether you are from West Africa, East Africa, Southern Africa, or North Africa, you are eligible to apply as long as you meet the other eligibility criteria.
Can refugees apply for this scholarship?
Yes. Refugees and displaced people living in Lebanon can apply for on-campus graduate scholarships. The Mastercard Foundation is committed to inclusive education and recognizes the barriers faced by displaced communities in accessing quality higher education.
Does the scholarship cover family members?
The scholarship covers only the selected scholar. It does not extend to family members or dependents. However, scholars do receive a monthly stipend that can help manage living expenses while in Beirut.
Can I apply for more than one program?
You should apply to the specific program that best fits your academic background and career goals. Check the official AUB website for guidance on applying to multiple programs or tracks.
What happens if I miss the deadline?
Late applications are generally not accepted for competitive scholarship programs. Make sure you submit your complete application before the deadline to avoid disqualification. If you miss the 2026 deadline, you may be able to apply for the 2027 intake when applications open later this year.
Is GRE required for all programs?
The GRE is required for some programs at the Faculty of Arts and Sciences. The GMAT is required for the MBA program. For most other programs, you can submit English proficiency test scores such as TOEFL, IELTS, the AUB-EN test, or the Duolingo English Test. Check your specific program’s requirements on the AUB website.
Final Thoughts
The American University of Beirut Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 is one of the most valuable and transformative scholarship opportunities available to young African students and Lebanese nationals this year. It combines a world-class education at a prestigious institution with comprehensive financial support and a program designed to develop real-world leaders.
If you are academically strong, financially in need, passionate about making a difference, and committed to returning home and giving back after your studies, then this scholarship was made for people like you. The deadlines are approaching quickly, so do not delay. Start putting your application together today.
Thousands of ambitious students will be applying for a limited number of spots. The difference between success and rejection often comes down to how well-prepared and how genuine your application is. Take your time, tell your real story, and show the selection committee exactly why you deserve this incredible opportunity.
We wish you the very best of luck. If you found this article helpful, please share it with fellow students who might also benefit from this information. And if you have any questions about the scholarship, feel free to drop them in the comments section below.
Click Here to Apply for the AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026
