The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University is designed to expand access to quality postgraduate education for talented young Africans who face financial and social barriers. For many students across Sub-Saharan Africa, pursuing a master’s degree remains a dream limited by cost and opportunity. This scholarship was created to bridge that gap by supporting academically strong individuals with leadership potential and a commitment to community development.
For the 2026/2027 academic year, Makerere University will offer 13 fully funded master’s scholarships under this prestigious program. The initiative aims to empower young leaders by equipping them with advanced education, professional skills, and mentorship that prepare them for meaningful careers and positive social impact across Africa.
The program focuses on inclusion, ensuring opportunities reach refugees, internally displaced persons, young people with disabilities, and students from disadvantaged or underrepresented communities.
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: Uganda
- Scholarship Category: Undergraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: All Countries
- Scholarship Benefits: Tuition fee + Living Allowance + Health Insurance, etc.
- Application Deadline: 6th June, 2026
Scholarship Benefits of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027 Makerere University
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides comprehensive support to selected students throughout their master’s studies. The benefits are designed to remove financial stress and allow scholars to focus fully on academic and personal growth.
Key benefits include:
- Full tuition coverage for the entire master’s programme
- Accommodation support during the study period
- Monthly stipend for basic living expenses
- Academic support and mentoring opportunities
- Leadership development and career guidance
- Access to networking and professional development programs
- Support aimed at helping graduates transition into dignified and fulfilling employment
The scholarship emphasizes holistic development, combining education with leadership training and community engagement.
See Also:
- Oregon State University Graduate Research Assistant Scholarship 2026 in USA (Fully Funded MS Opportunity)
- Boustany Harvard MBA Scholarship 2027: Masters Scholarship in USA
- Karsh International Scholarship at Duke University 2026: Fully Funded Opportunity for International Students
Eligibility Requirements for Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027 Makerere University
Applicants must meet specific academic and personal criteria to qualify for the scholarship:
- Must belong to one of the eligible categories such as refugees, internally displaced persons, young persons with disabilities, international students, youth from refugee host communities, underrepresented ethnic groups in Uganda, or other Ugandan youth
- Must have applied for admission to Makerere University main campus for the 2026/2027 academic year
- Must have completed undergraduate studies in an African country
- Must demonstrate financial need that limits access to graduate education
- Must not hold another scholarship
- Must not have completed or be pursuing a master’s degree
- Must show leadership potential and involvement in community service
- Must be 35 years or younger at the application deadline
- Refugees, internally displaced persons, and applicants with disabilities must be under 40 years of age
- Refugee applicants must possess valid refugee identification or family attestation documents
- Must apply for priority degree programmes supported under the scholarship. Click here to see the priority programs.
Incomplete applications or attempts to influence the selection process lead to automatic disqualification.
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare the following documents before starting the application:
- Completed scholarship application form
- Proof of application for admission to Makerere University main campus
- Academic transcripts and undergraduate certificates
- National identification or passport
- Proof of financial need
- Curriculum Vitae or resume
- Evidence of leadership or community service involvement
- Refugee identity documentation or resettlement letter where applicable
- Supporting documents for disability status where applicable
All submitted information must be accurate and authentic.
Scholarship Deadline
Application Deadline: Friday, 5 June 2026 at 11:59 p.m. (EAT)
Late applications are not accepted.
Steps on How to Apply for Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027 Makerere University
Follow these steps to successfully submit your application:
- Apply for admission to Makerere University main campus for the 2026/2027 academic year.
- Prepare all required supporting documents in advance.
- Access the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program online application portal.
- Complete the application form carefully using a computer for accuracy.
- Upload all required documents as instructed.
- Review your application thoroughly before submission.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
The application process is completely free. Applicants should avoid individuals requesting payment in exchange for scholarship assistance.
Click Here to See other Scholarships.
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