Mastercard Scholarship at the American University of Beirut (AUB) 2025 | Fully Funded Study Opportunity
The Mastercard Scholarship at the American University of Beirut (AUB) is one of the top fully funded educational opportunities for international students in 2025. This scholarship targets academically outstanding students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, offering comprehensive financial support that covers tuition fees, housing, living expenses, and other university-related costs.
The program aims to support higher education in Lebanon by preparing a new generation of young leaders capable of making a positive impact in their communities. It places strong emphasis on leadership development, community engagement, and social entrepreneurship.
This scholarship is an ideal opportunity for those seeking to study abroad at no cost and earn a recognized degree from one of the most prestigious universities in the region.
Benefits of the Mastercard Scholarship
The Mastercard Scholarship at AUB is one of the most powerful fully funded scholarship programs in the Middle East, representing a strategic investment in ambitious youth from low-income communities.
The scholarship offers a comprehensive academic and financial support package that allows students to fully focus on their university studies without financial burdens, including:
- Full tuition coverage for the entire academic program
- Monthly living stipend to cover housing, food, and personal expenses
- Comprehensive health insurance throughout the study period
- Annual round-trip airfare between the student’s home country and Lebanon
- Support for purchasing a laptop and essential learning technology
- Book and academic material allowance for each semester
- Academic advising and mentorship programs to support students throughout their studies
- Professional workshops to develop leadership and entrepreneurship skills
- Community engagement activities and opportunities to connect with students from various countries
- Internship support and career development services post-graduation
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Available Academic Fields – Mastercard Scholarship at AUB
The fully funded Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at the American University of Beirut (AUB) offers an exceptional opportunity for international students to pursue Master’s degree programs in a wide range of leading academic disciplines. All graduate programs are taught in English and span across multiple faculties at AUB.
Below is the list of eligible graduate fields covered by the scholarship:
Faculty of Arts and Sciences
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Education
- Environmental Sciences
- Mathematics
- Psychology
- Public Administration
Faculty of Health Sciences
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Population Health
Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences
- Food Security
- Rural Community Development
- Agricultural Economics
Maroun Semaan Faculty of Engineering and Architecture
- Energy Studies
- Environmental and Water Resources Engineering
- Urban Planning and Policy
- Urban Design
Suliman S. Olayan School of Business
- Business Administration (MBA)
- Finance
- Human Resource Management
Program durations range between one and two years, depending on the field and specific degree requirements. This scholarship offers a unique opportunity to earn a prestigious international Master’s degree from one of the region’s top universities—with full financial coverage for academic and living expenses.
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Eligibility Criteria for the Mastercard Scholarship
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at AUB is aimed at ambitious students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds who demonstrate strong leadership potential. To be considered for this fully funded academic opportunity, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Nationality: Priority is given to citizens of African countries and applicants from low-income regions around the world.
- Academic Qualification: A Bachelor’s degree from a recognized university with a minimum of “Good” standing.
- Age: Applicants must be no older than 35 years at the time of application.
- English Proficiency: Submission of a valid certificate from one of the internationally recognized English tests:
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TOEFL: Minimum score of 80
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IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
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Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 110
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Application Timeline – Mastercard Scholarship at the American University of Beirut (AUB) 2025
Below is the complete timeline for the 2025 Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program:
- Opening of Online Applications: January 15, 2025
- Graduate Program Application Deadline: May 16, 2025
- Deadline to Submit English Proficiency Test Results: May 30, 2025
- Document Verification Phase: June 2025
- Finalist Interviews: July 2025
- Official Acceptance Notifications: August 2025
- Pre-departure Orientation and Travel Preparation: Late August 2025
- Start of Fall Semester at AUB: September 2025
Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply early to avoid delays and ensure smooth processing of required documents and language tests.
Selection Criteria – Mastercard Scholarship at the American University of Beirut (AUB)
The fully funded Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at AUB is highly competitive and follows a multi-stage evaluation process to identify the most outstanding students committed to positive community change.
Applicant Selection Stages:
- Initial Screening: Applications are reviewed to ensure they meet the basic eligibility requirements.
- Academic Evaluation: Academic records and transcripts are assessed to determine readiness for graduate-level studies.
- Leadership Assessment: Candidates are evaluated on their experience in community leadership, initiative, and social responsibility.
- Personal or Virtual Interviews: Conducted to understand the applicant’s motivation, interpersonal skills, and alignment with the program’s goals.
- Final Selection: A dedicated committee conducts a holistic review of all aspects of the application.
Core Selection Criteria:
- Academic Excellence: Strong academic performance and the ability to succeed in rigorous graduate programs.
- Financial Need: Clear demonstration of financial hardship and inability to afford higher education without support.
- Community Leadership: Proven record of leadership in impactful community initiatives.
- Social Commitment: Demonstrated dedication to giving back to one’s local or regional community.
- Resilience and Determination: Ability to overcome adversity and persist through challenges.
- Future Vision: A clear plan to use education for meaningful change in society.
- Alignment with Program Values: Commitment to ethics, social justice, sustainability, and inclusion.
Priority is given to candidates who demonstrate a strong combination of academic excellence and genuine dedication to community development.
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Campus Life at the American University of Beirut (AUB)
AUB is one of the top universities in the Middle East, offering a holistic campus environment that enriches both the academic and cultural experience of international students.
Highlights of Life at AUB:
- Scenic Campus: Spanning 65 acres, the campus overlooks the Mediterranean Sea in the heart of Beirut.
- Global Reputation: Consistently ranked among the best universities in the Arab world.
- Modern Facilities: State-of-the-art libraries, research labs, tech centers, and athletic complexes.
- Diverse Student Body: Home to students from over 60 nationalities and more than 100 active student clubs.
- Cultural Immersion: A unique opportunity to experience Lebanese culture and Arab heritage.
- Academic and Career Support: Ongoing academic advising, career development, and job guidance.
- Dedicated Mastercard Student Support: A specialized office offering workshops, events, and leadership training tailored to empower future changemakers.
How to Apply for the Mastercard Scholarship at the American University ?
Step 1: Apply for Admission to an AUB Graduate Program
- Complete the official online application through AUB’s admissions portal.
- Select an eligible Master’s program from the list of supported fields.
- Indicate your interest in applying for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship in the financial aid section of the application.
- Upload all required academic documents.
Step 2: Fill Out the Supplementary Scholarship Application
- Provide detailed information about your leadership experience and community engagement.
- Submit short essays on your goals, leadership potential, and statement of purpose.
- Attach proof of financial need.
Required Documents for Application:
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Academic Records: Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions.
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Graduation Certificates: Bachelor’s degree certificate.
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Updated CV/Resume: Including academic background, work experience, and volunteer activities.
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Statement of Purpose: Outlining academic and career goals, reasons for choosing the program, and plans for community impact.
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English Proficiency Proof:
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TOEFL: Minimum score of 80
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IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5
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Duolingo English Test: Minimum score of 110
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Three Recommendation Letters: From credible academic or professional referees.
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Supporting Financial Documents: Income statements, tax returns, or other documents proving financial need.
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Valid Identification Document: Passport or national ID.
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Recent Passport-Sized Photo: Standard ID photo format.
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Frequently Asked Questions – Mastercard Scholarship at AUB
Is there an application fee?
Applicants interested in the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship can typically request a waiver for the graduate program application fee at AUB, provided they submit valid proof of financial need.
What if I don’t meet the English language requirement?
Applicants who do not meet the minimum English proficiency scores may be offered conditional admission, requiring them to complete an intensive English language program before starting their academic studies.
Does the scholarship cover family or dependents’ expenses?
No, the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship is intended to support students as individuals. It does not cover expenses for family members or dependents. Applicants are encouraged to plan accordingly if they intend to bring family.
What are the expectations after graduation?
Graduates are expected to return to their home countries and contribute to community development. The program provides reentry support and connects graduates to a global alumni network of changemakers dedicated to social impact.
Conclusion:
The Mastercard Scholarship at the American University of Beirut (AUB) 2025 is more than just financial aid—it is a life-changing opportunity to receive world-class education at one of the Middle East’s leading universities. Scholars benefit from comprehensive support covering academics, living expenses, and leadership development, while becoming part of a global alumni network dedicated to a more just and sustainable future.
In Closing…
We wish you the best on your learning journey! Don’t forget to follow the scholars.persmind blog for more educational opportunities and international scholarships.
