Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University 2026/2027 | Fully Funded Undergraduate & Master’s Scholarship

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University 2026/2027 | Fully Funded Undergraduate & Master’s Scholarship

Applications are now open for the 2026/2027 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University for academically talented students from Africa facing financial and social barriers to higher education.

The programme is a fully funded scholarship initiative aimed at developing transformative leaders committed to community development and social impact across Africa.

Hosted at Makerere University in Uganda, the scholarship supports both undergraduate and master’s degree students through full financial support, leadership training, mentorship, and career development opportunities.

Interested applicants are encouraged to apply before the application deadline.

Scholarship Overview

About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University is part of the global Mastercard Foundation Scholars initiative designed to support academically gifted young Africans with leadership potential.

The programme focuses on:

• academic excellence,
• leadership development,
• community service,
• entrepreneurship,
• and social transformation.

Scholars receive not only financial support but also mentorship, career guidance, internship opportunities, and personal development training throughout their studies.

The programme places special emphasis on:

• young women,
• refugees and displaced persons,
• students with disabilities,
• and economically disadvantaged students.

Scholarship Benefits

Selected scholars will receive:

• Full tuition fees
• Accommodation
• Living stipend
• Meals
• Medical insurance
• Academic materials and books
• Laptop support
• Travel support (where applicable)
• Leadership training
• Mentorship and career guidance
• Internship and networking opportunities

The scholarship is fully funded for the duration of the programme.

Study Destination: Uganda

Available Study Levels

The scholarship is available for:

• Undergraduate Degree Programmes
• Master’s Degree Programmes

Eligible Fields of Study

The scholarship supports various programmes offered at Makerere University.

Eligible fields may include:

• Agriculture
• Engineering
• Health Sciences
• Education
• Business
• Technology
• Social Sciences
• Development Studies
• Environmental Sciences
• and other approved programmes

Applicants should confirm programme availability through the university admission guidelines.

Who Can Apply?

Applications are open to:

• African students,
• academically talented but economically disadvantaged applicants,
• refugees and displaced persons,
• students with disabilities,
• and young leaders committed to community development.

Eligibility Requirements

Undergraduate Applicants

Applicants must generally:

• Be citizens of an African country
• Have completed secondary education
• Demonstrate academic excellence
• Show financial need
• Demonstrate leadership potential and community service involvement
• Apply for admission to Makerere University

Master’s Applicants

Applicants must generally:

• Hold a bachelor’s degree from a recognized institution
• Demonstrate academic achievement
• Show leadership potential
• Demonstrate commitment to community transformation
• Meet Makerere University admission requirements

Required Documents

Applicants may be required to submit:

• Completed application form
• Academic transcripts and certificates
• National ID or passport
• Recommendation letters
• Personal statement
• Proof of financial need
• Admission documents
• CV/Resume (for master’s applicants)
• Additional supporting documents

Selection Process

The selection process generally includes:

1. Online application submission
2. Eligibility screening
3. Academic and leadership assessment
4. Review of financial need and community involvement
5. Interview stage (for shortlisted candidates)
6. Final scholarship selection

Selection is based on:

• academic merit,
• leadership potential,
• financial need,
• and commitment to community impact.

Why You Should Apply

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offers students the opportunity to:

• receive fully funded education,
• develop leadership and professional skills,
• access mentorship and networking opportunities,
• and become part of a global community of young African leaders.

The programme also supports scholars in creating meaningful social change within their communities.

Important Notes

• Applications are free
• Applicants must first meet Makerere University admission requirements
• Incomplete applications may not be considered
• Early application is strongly recommended
• Only shortlisted candidates may be contacted

Application Deadline

June 5, 2026

Late applications may not be accepted.

How to Apply

Interested applicants should apply through the official scholarship announcement page below this page

Final Advice

Applicants should:

• prepare all required documents early,
• clearly demonstrate leadership experience and community impact,
• and carefully complete all application requirements.