*MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at Michigan State University

Full Tuition for Undergraduate and Graduate Courses

Scholarship Overview

•  The MasterCard Foundation has partnered with Michigan State University to provide full tuition scholarships to undergraduate and graduate students from Sub-Saharan Africa.

• Through financial, academic, social and post-graduation support, The Scholars Program will ensure that young people are equipped with the skills and competencies needed to spur economic growth and social development in their respective countries of origin.

Host School(s)

• Study in United States at Michigan State University

Field(s) of Study

• All Bachelors and Masters courses offered at MSU

What does the scholarship cover?

MasterCard Foundation Scholars receive a comprehensive scholarship equivalent to the costs associated with earning a Bachelors or Masters degree, which includes:

• travel,
• tuition,
• MSU student fees,
• Visa and SEVIS fees,
• housing,
• food,
• living expenses,
• experiential learning abroad and
• cohort signature programs which will focus on leadership topics.

How many scholarships are given?

• Not Stated
• In 2013, 26 Scholars Listed, and
• In 2014, 32 Scholars Listed,  – so assume around the same for this year.

Which countries are targeted?

• 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.

Am I Eligible to Apply?

• Students who have demonstrated academic talent, are economically disadvantaged and have a personal commitment to give back to their countries are invited to apply for these scholarships.

Undergraduate Students

• 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.

 Graduate Students

• Prior completion of a Bachelor’s Degree from an African University with academic achievements suggesting continued academic success as graduate student.
• Strong commitment to a professional path in line with the 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 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.

How to I Apply – Next Steps

UNDERGRAD

1. 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.
   To apply visit: www.beaspartan.msu.edu.
   For more information on application requirements go to: www.admissions.msu.edu/admission/international_requirements.asp.
   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. Only students admitted to Michigan State University will 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 student portal at www.beaspartan.msu.edu with your MSU Applicant ID and password.
3. Complete the scholarship application and upload to your admissions student portal no later than January 4, 2016. You may submit the scholarship application at the same time as your MSU application. If submitting a hand-written scholarship application, 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.
4. Provide a copy of the MCF Recommendation Form to an appropriate individual per the form instructions (find form at http://mcfscholars.isp.msu.edu/pros/applications/). Have your recommender complete this form and email it as an attachment to mcfs@msu.edu no later than January 4, 2016.
5. 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.

GRADUATE

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 and thereafter beNOMINATED for a MasterCard Foundation Scholarship by a faculty member therein.. 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 no later than early-December 2015, in order for MSU to receive scores on time.
3. Ensure that the department receives all required supporting documents and official test scores by January 4, 2016.  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 the graduate student scholarship application and send it to your graduate department to arrive by the due date.
5. 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 the due date.

Closing Date:

• Undergrad Application  – January 4
• Graduate Application – February 1

How do I get more information?

• Click Here – http://mcfscholars.isp.msu.edu/

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