The M-Pesa Foundation Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity for high-achieving Kenyan learners from disadvantaged backgrounds. It targets students aged 14–16 who show strong academics, leadership potential, and financial need. The programme covers tuition, accommodation, meals, learning materials, and pastoral care. Selection is competitive, based on verified academic results, conduct, and leadership abilities. Learners must submit official forms with supporting documents by 15 May 2026. This article explains the M-Pesa Foundation Scholarship eligibility, forms, and tips to improve your chances of success. Eligibility For M-Pesa Foundation Scholarship & How to Apply and Succeed The M-Pesa Foundation Scholarship empowers Kenyan learners from disadvantaged backgrounds, providing full academic support, leadership training, and long-term mentorship, rewarding merit, integrity, and genuine financial need for transformative education. [PHOTO//COURTESY]

Who Qualifies for the M-Pesa Foundation Academy

Eligibility for the M-Pesa Foundation Scholarship is strict and highly competitive. Only students meeting the following criteria are considered:
Requirement Details
Academic Level Final year of junior secondary school; must sit the KJSEA in November 2026
Age 14–16 years at the time of admission
Nationality Kenyan citizens or registered refugees living in Kenya; non-citizens must declare nationality and residence status
Performance Strong Grade 6 KPSEA results; solid internal assessments in Grades 7 and 8
Personal Qualities Leadership and entrepreneurial potential, discipline, good conduct, critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills
Key takeaways:
  • Must demonstrate genuine financial need.
  • Must show consistent academic performance and strong personal values.
  • Applications are accepted only from learners meeting all eligibility criteria.

How to Apply for the 2026 M-Pesa Foundation Scholarship

The application process is straightforward but strict. Applications opened in late 2025 and close on 15 May 2026. Late submissions are rejected. The process is free, and learners should not pay for forms. Report any attempt to sell application materials to the M-Pesa Foundation hotline on 0703 200 000.

Step 1: Get the Correct Form

Applicants must use the official 2026 form. Forms from previous years are invalid. You can access the form in these ways:
  • Download online from the M-Pesa Foundation Academy website or Citizen of the Future site
  • Collect a physical copy:
    • At the Academy in Thika
    • Safaricom retail shops nationwide
    • Safaricom Headquarters in Westlands
    • National Council for Persons Living with Disabilities

Step 2: Fill in the Form Correctly

  • Complete the form personally in your own handwriting
  • No assistance from parents, teachers, or others is allowed
  • Ensure all sections are fully completed and accurate

Step 3: Submit the Application

Submit your application using one of these methods:
  • Email a single scanned PDF to [email protected]
  • Post to M-Pesa Foundation Academy, P.O. Box 7954-01000, Thika
  • Drop it at any Safaricom retail shop
Important: Physical applications must be in a sealed envelope. Incomplete or falsified forms are automatically rejected. Only shortlisted candidates are contacted.

M-Pesa Foundation Scholarship Requirements

Applicants must submit a complete set of supporting documents. Missing items lead to automatic disqualification. Required documents include:
  • Birth certificate copy
  • Parent or guardian national ID
  • Death certificate, where applicable
  • Academic records: Grade 6 KPSEA and stamped Grade 7 & 8 assessment reports
  • Certificates showing leadership and co-curricular involvement
  • Proof of financial status: payslip, bank, or M-Pesa statement
  • Medical reports for learners with special educational needs
  • Clear homestead map on A4 showing directions from the nearest town
Mandatory endorsements:
  • Class teacher: Written assessment of academic ability and potential
  • Headteacher: Recommendation including discipline and financial background
  • External authority: Independent endorsement
All endorsements must be fully completed, signed, and stamped. Incomplete or unsigned forms are not accepted.

Tips to Improve Your Application

  • Submit all forms and documents early to avoid errors
  • Double-check for missing signatures, stamps, or attachments
  • Highlight leadership roles and achievements in the application
  • Demonstrate genuine financial need with verifiable documents
  • Ensure handwriting is neat, legible, and personal
Bullet points for clarity:
  • Academic consistency matters more than single high scores
  • Leadership potential is equally critical
  • Integrity and honesty in your application are non-negotiable
  • Follow every instruction on the form carefully

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What does the scholarship cover? Tuition, accommodation, meals, learning materials, and pastoral care, either at the M-Pesa Foundation Academy or other schools in Kenya. Where is the Academy located? Kiambu County, along Thika–Mang’u Road, approximately 6 km from Thika Superhighway, about 45 minutes from Nairobi. What curriculum is followed? Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) under the Kenyan national system. Students select two pathways from Arts & Sports Science, Social Sciences, or STEM, alongside core subjects. What facilities are available? Modern classrooms, labs, student residences, co-curricular activity areas, 800-seater auditorium, sports fields, and outdoor spaces supporting holistic growth. What support is offered after graduation? The Uongozi Centre provides life skills training, career guidance, and support for university transition.