Fully Funded American University of Beirut AUB Mastercard Scholarship 2026

If you are a young leader from Africa or a resident of Lebanon looking to advance your academic career through a Master’s or PhD program, this opportunity is designed specifically for you. In this guide, we will break down everything you need to know about the AUB Mastercard Scholarship 2026, including eligibility requirements, the generous benefits included, and a step-by-step roadmap to ensuring your application stands out before the deadline.

Eligibility Criteria For The American University of Beirut AUB Mastercard Scholarship

1. Nationality and Residency Requirements

The scholarship is specifically targeted at groups that have historically faced barriers to higher education. Eligibility is divided by the type of program:

• For On-Campus Master’s Programs:
  • Citizens of any country on the African Continent.
  • Citizens of Lebanon.
  • Refugees currently living in Lebanon or anywhere on the African Continent.
• For PhD Programs:
  • Citizens of countries on the African Continent.
  • Refugees residing on the African Continent.
• For Online Master’s Programs:
  • Citizens of countries on the African Continent.

2. Age Limit

The program focuses on developing young leaders. Applicants should generally be 35 years of age or younger at the time of application.

3. Academic Excellence

AUB is a top-tier institution with rigorous standards. To qualify, you must:

• Have a strong academic record (high GPA) from your previous university degree.
• Demonstrate the intellectual capacity to handle graduate-level research and coursework.

4. Financial Need

This is a need-based scholarship. You must demonstrate that your financial talent exceeds your financial resources. In other words, you have the brains and the drive, but you lack the personal or family funds to pay for tuition and living expenses in Beirut.

5. Leadership and Community Commitment

The Mastercard Foundation is not just looking for students; they are looking for leaders. You must provide evidence of:

• Leadership potential through previous roles in school, work, or volunteer organizations.
• A proven commitment to giving back to your community, country, or region.

6. English Language Proficiency (RUSE)

Since the medium of instruction at AUB is English, you must demonstrate Readiness for University Studies in English (RUSE). You can submit scores from the following tests:

• TOEFL iBT or IELTS (Academic)
• DUOLINGO English Test (DET)
• GRE (Verbal) or GMAT (Verbal)
• AUB-EN (AUB’s own English entrance exam)

Application Process For The American University of Beirut AUB Mastercard Scholarship

Step 1: Complete the AUB Online Graduate Application

Visit the AUB Graduate Admissions Portal and create an account. You will need to fill out your personal details, educational history, and upload supporting documents such as:

• Official Transcripts.
• Copy of your Passport or National ID.
• Letters of Recommendation.
• CV/Resume.

Step 2: Select the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

Inside the online application, look for the “Financial Opportunities” section. You must check the box for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. If you do not select this, you will not be considered for the scholarship, even if you are admitted to the university.

Step 3: Complete the Financial Aid Application (Master’s Only)

If you are applying for a Master’s degree (not required for PhD), you must also fill out the AUB Financial Aid Application.

• This form becomes available 1–3 working days after you submit your main admission application.
• You will receive an automated email once it is activated.
• Important: Your scholarship application is not considered “complete” until both the admission form and the financial aid form are submitted.

Step 4: Submit English Proficiency Scores

Ensure your test scores are sent directly to AUB before the respective deadlines in May or June.

Benefits Of The American University of Beirut AUB Mastercard Scholarship

Financial Benefits: Total Coverage

The primary goal of the Mastercard Foundation is to remove every financial barrier that might stand between a talented student and their degree. If selected, you receive:

• Full Tuition Coverage: 100% of your university tuition and registration fees are paid directly to AUB. This includes all laboratory and program-specific fees.
• Settling-in Allowance: A one-time payment to help you get started when you first arrive in Beirut.
• Monthly Living Stipend: You will receive a regular allowance to cover your day-to-day expenses, such as food, local transport, and personal needs.
• Quality Accommodation: The program provides housing, ensuring you have a safe and comfortable place to study, whether on-campus or in university-approved facilities.
• Health Insurance: You are fully covered under AUB’s comprehensive health insurance plan, giving you peace of mind regarding medical care.
• Books and Technology: The scholarship covers the cost of required textbooks and provides a brand-new laptop to ensure you have the tools necessary for graduate-level research.
• Travel and Visa Costs: For international students (especially those from the African continent), the program covers round-trip airfare and the costs associated with obtaining a Lebanese student visa.

Beyond the Money: Professional and Personal Growth

The AUB Mastercard Scholarship is a leadership program first and a financial award second. The “hidden” benefits are often what help graduates land high-impact jobs later:

1. Leadership Development Curriculum

Scholars don’t just go to class; they attend specialized workshops on ethical leadership, strategic thinking, and social entrepreneurship. This curriculum is designed to help you return home and solve real-world problems.

2. Mentorship and Academic Support

Every scholar is paired with mentors and academic advisors. Whether you are struggling with a complex thesis or need career advice, you have a dedicated support system to ensure you don’t just “pass,” but excel.

3. Community Engagement and Fieldwork

You will participate in community service projects and fieldwork. This hands-on experience allows you to apply what you learn in the classroom to social challenges in Lebanon or your home country.

4. The Global Alumni Network

Upon graduation, you join the Mastercard Foundation Alumni Network. This is a massive community of thousands of “change agents” across the globe. This network provides lifelong professional connections, job opportunities, and potential funding for social ventures.

Deadline For The American University of Beirut AUB Mastercard Scholarship

Key Deadlines for 2026

• On-Campus Master’s and PhD: March 12, 2026.
• Online Graduate Programs: May 18, 2026.

Conclusion

Securing a fully funded spot through the AUB Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is about more than just funding it is an invitation to join a community of future leaders dedicated to the development of Africa and Lebanon. By aligning your academic goals with a genuine commitment to social service, you position yourself as the ideal candidate for this transformative journey in Beirut.