Study and Move to the US for Free: MasterCard Scholarship in Partnership with Arizona State University 2024

Study and Move to the US for Free: MasterCard Scholarship in Partnership with Arizona State University 2024

MasterCard’s partnership with Arizona State University (ASU) for scholarships must provide a pathway for talented individuals to pursue higher education in the US without financial constraints. ASU is known for its innovative programs and commitment to accessibility, so it’s a great choice for pursuing further studies. If you’re considering applying, make sure to check the eligibility criteria and application deadlines.

2024 Innovation and Technology Scholarship Application

The partnership between the Mastercard Foundation and Arizona State University (ASU) to offer scholarships in artificial intelligence (AI) and business is truly remarkable. Providing comprehensive academic and practical training in AI alongside business education will equip Mastercard Foundation Scholars with the skills needed to become leaders in their fields, addressing challenges not only in Africa but globally.

It’s fantastic to hear that the scholarships cover full tuition fees, accommodation expenses, and provide comprehensive support, making higher education accessible to deserving individuals who might otherwise face financial barriers. Additionally, the emphasis on inclusivity by encouraging women, refugees, displaced persons, and people with disabilities to apply is commendable, reflecting ASU’s commitment to diversity and accessibility.

5 Scholarships are available for students admitted for the 2024/2025 academic year, which will cover the full tuition fees, expenses for accommodation, and comprehensive support. The opportunities for leadership curriculum, mentorship, and other programming as part of the wider Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at ASU further enrich the educational experience and prepare scholars for success beyond their academic studies.

For anyone eligible and interested, this scholarship program presents a unique chance to not only pursue higher education but also to make a meaningful impact in the fields of AI and business, contributing to positive change in their communities and beyond.

Available Program

Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence in Business (MS-AIB)

The Master of Science in Artificial Intelligence and Business (MS-AIB) curriculum seems to offer a well-rounded approach to preparing future leaders in the field. By integrating both technical and business skills, students can gain a comprehensive understanding of AI and its applications in diverse business contexts.

The emphasis on understanding the implications and possibilities of AI, as well as the importance of governance, ethics, and principled innovation, reflects the program’s commitment to responsible AI deployment. In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, such considerations are essential for ensuring that AI is used ethically and effectively.

The structure of the program, with classes held in person at ASU’s Tempe campus and completed within a 9-month timeframe, provides students with an immersive learning experience. Covering a wide range of topics, from foundational AI knowledge to AI applications in business, machine learning, enterprise systems, data analytics, and strategy, ensures that students are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the field.

The MS-AIB curriculum appears to offer a dynamic and practical approach to AI education, preparing students to become leaders who can leverage AI technologies to drive innovation and growth in various business environments.

Eligibility Criteria

• Applicants must qualify academically for admission to the degree of their choice that includes English proficiency.
• Applicants must be a citizen of an African country committed to ethical leadership and demonstrated engagement in their community.
• Applicants must be between the ages of 18 and 33 on or before the application deadline.
• Applicants must demonstrate a track record of leadership and service in their community.
• Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and ambitions that exceed one’s financial resources.
• Applicants must have earned an undergraduate degree with a required minimum 4 years of study, conferred by July 2024.  
• Applicants must not have started or completed other graduate or masters degrees before August 2024.  
• Applicants must be able to live in Phoenix, Arizona for the duration of the program.
• Applicants are recommended to have a solid foundation in mathematics, statistics and computer science.

Value of the Scholarship

The Scholarship will cover the following:

• Costs incurred for visa application processing
• Costs incurred for English language tests
• Costs incurred for program application 
• Airfare to and from Phoenix, Arizona
• Full tuition, books and fees
• On campus housing
• Participation in Scholarship programming

Application Deadline

The deadline for all applications has been extended to 16:00 GMT (9:00 AM MST) on Friday, 10 May.

Point to Note

All applicants are advised to apply for the scholarship first and, if successful, will be assisted in the process of applying for admission to Arizona State University. Interviews via video or phone call will be held in summer 2024, with final decisions made by late May 2024. All successful applicants will travel to Phoenix, Arizona to join the Program in August 2024. 

All applicants, once registered, should have read and understood the application guidance and eligibility criteria before submitting an application to the Program to avoid any errors or incorrect information. Arizona State University and the Mastercard Foundation reserve the right to cancel incomplete and/or late applications, to effect changes to the conditions of the scholarship or to make no awards at all. 

Admission to the academic program does not guarantee admission to the scholarship program.

How to Apply

If you have limited internet access, complete a downloadable version of the application. Click here to access the form. This link will open a Word document. Please do not request edit access. Click “Open With” to download to your platform of choice. Or click the Download icon on the top right to download the file directly.

How To Submit your Application

Applicants are encouraged to submit an online application. 
OR
Submit the completed form by emailing mastercardfndnscholars@asu.edu with all required attachments.

Good luck with your application!

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