Unlock Your Potential with One of the Best Fully Funded Masters Scholarships in Africa
Looking for a transformative postgraduate experience in Africa? The Mastercard African STARS Scholarship (African STARS MSc Fellowship) 2025 offers a fully funded master’s opportunity for African students to pursue advanced study in Bioinformatics of Infectious Diseases and Pathogen Genomics at the prestigious Stellenbosch University, South Africa. This scholarship covers all your academic and living expenses—including tuition, accommodation, stipend, and travel—making it one of the top options in the list of fully funded Masters scholarships for African students.
About Mastercard African STARS Scholarship (MSc Fellowship)
The African STARS MSc Fellowship, supported by the Mastercard Foundation, is an elite postgraduate program jointly organized by the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) at Stellenbosch University and the Institut Pasteur de Dakar (IPD) in Senegal. This initiative focuses on building the next generation of African scientists and leaders in infectious diseases and pathogen genomics.
This fully funded MSc program runs for two years, combining structured coursework and cutting-edge research training. What sets this scholarship apart is its emphasis on practical lab experience, leadership development, and mentorship, particularly for young African women and underrepresented groups.
Mastercard African STARS Scholarship Summary
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Host Country: | South Africa |
| Host Institution: | Stellenbosch University (CERI) & Institut Pasteur de Dakar (IPD) |
| Level of Study: | Master’s (MSc) |
| Eligible Degrees / Fields: | Bioinformatics, Data Science, Biochemistry, Computer Science, Molecular Biology, etc. |
| Scholarship Coverage: | Full tuition, stipend, accommodation, health insurance, research & travel costs |
| IELTS Requirement: | Not Required |
| Eligible Regions: | All African countries |
| Application Deadline: | June 26, 2025 |
| Destination Country: | South Africa |
| Category: | Fully Funded, Graduate Scholarship |
Benefits of the Mastercard African STARS Scholarship
The Mastercard STARS MSc Fellowship is one of the most comprehensive graduate scholarships available today. Benefits include:
- Full Tuition Coverage for two academic years
- Monthly Living Stipend to cover personal expenses
- Accommodation and Meals at Stellenbosch University
- Health Insurance Coverage
- Research Support including lab materials and access to facilities
- Air Travel Allowance (to and from South Africa)
- Structured Lecture Modules in infectious diseases and bioinformatics
- Hands-on Lab Training in world-class facilities
- Career Development Workshops tailored for researchers in LMICs
- Dedicated Mentorship from supervisors across institutions
Eligibility Criteria for the African STARS MSc Fellowship
To be considered for this prestigious Masters scholarship in Africa, applicants must:
- Be born in and/or currently living in Africa
- Be 35 years old or younger at the time of application
- Hold a BSc Honours degree (NQF Level 8) or equivalent 4-year undergraduate degree with at least 65%
- Come from one of the following or related fields:
- Bioinformatics
- Data Science
- Mathematics / Statistics
- Biochemistry / Genetics
- Computer Science / Molecular Biology
- Demonstrate a strong interest in infectious disease research
- Women are strongly encouraged to apply
- No English proficiency test like IELTS is required
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Required Documents for African STARS Scholarship Application
To complete your application, you will need the following:
- Completed Online Application Form (mandatory)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) (mandatory)
- Motivation Letter explaining why you want to join the program (mandatory)
- Certified Academic Transcripts and Certificates (mandatory)
- Proof of Age (Passport or National ID) (mandatory)
- Two Reference Letters (mandatory)
- Proof of Residence (optional but encouraged)
All documents must be uploaded in PDF format. Certified documents must bear official stamps or signatures.
Application Timeline for the African STARS MSc Fellowship
- Application Opens: Already open
- Application Deadline (Scholarship): June 26, 2025
- Application Deadline (University Admission):
- International Applicants: August 31, 2025
- South African Applicants: September 30, 2025
This opportunity follows a strict deadline, not a rolling basis.
How to Apply for the Mastercard African STARS MSc Fellowship
Follow these steps to successfully apply for this fully funded masters scholarship:
Step 1: Apply for the Scholarship
- Visit the official scholarship application page: STARS Fellowship Application Portal
- Fill out the scholarship form and upload all required documents
Step 2: Apply for MSc Admission at Stellenbosch University
- Submit a formal application for the MSc Bioinformatics of Infectious Diseases program
- Application Deadlines:
- International Students: August 31, 2025
- South African Students: September 30, 2025
Tips for a Strong Application:
- Apply as early as possible
- Tailor your motivation letter to show alignment with the program
- Seek recommendation letters from academic or professional mentors
- Double-check all uploads for clarity and completeness
FAQs about the Mastercard African STARS Scholarship
Who is eligible for this scholarship?
Any African citizen under the age of 35 with a strong academic background in a related field can apply.
Is IELTS required to apply?
No, IELTS or any other English proficiency test is not required.
Can I apply from Nigeria, Ghana, or Kenya?
Yes, applicants from all African countries are welcome.
When will results be announced?
Final selections are typically announced by late August 2025.
Can I apply for other scholarships along with this?
Yes, provided there are no conflicting obligations.
Final Thoughts on the Mastercard African STARS MSc Fellowship
This is more than just a scholarship—it’s a launching pad for your research career in Africa. With world-class mentorship, comprehensive funding, and hands-on lab experience, the Mastercard African STARS Scholarship is one of the best fully funded graduate programs for future bioinformatics leaders.
If you’re passionate about infectious disease research and ready to take your career to the next level, this is your chance.
📌Submit your application now before the deadline closes. Don’t miss this opportunity to study in South Africa.
Application Deadline: 26th June 2025
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