The Mastercard Foundation, in partnership with the University of Rwanda, is now accepting applications for its Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 for outstanding African students.
The University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholarship provides a fully funded opportunity covering tuition fees, accommodation, a monthly living stipend, a laptop, learning materials, annual return airfare, and several academic and professional development benefits.
Scholarship Summary
- Host: Mastercard Foundation | University of Rwanda
- Host Country: Rwanda
- Category: Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: African Countries
- Reward: Full Scholarship | Monthly Living Stipend | Full Tuition | Laptop | Accommodation | Annual Return Airfare | Learning Materials
- IELTS Requirement: No IELTS Required
- Deadline: August 22, 2026
Scholarship Details
The University of Rwanda, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, is currently accepting applications for the 3rd Cohort of its Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. The 10-year initiative is designed to expand access to quality higher education for academically talented but economically disadvantaged young Africans, including those from conflict and post-conflict affected communities.
Beyond financial support, the programme seeks to develop ethical, innovative, and transformative leaders who are committed to driving sustainable development across Africa. Scholars are expected to use the knowledge and skills gained through the programme to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the continent at large.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, applicants must:
- Have applied for admission into an eligible University of Rwanda Master’s programme for the September 2026 intake.
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree in a field related to the Master’s programme they are applying for.
- Be a citizen of Rwanda or any other African country.
- Refugee applicants must provide certification from UNHCR, MINEMA, or another recognized legal authority.
- Be 40 years old or younger for male applicants.
- Be 45 years old or younger for female applicants.
- Demonstrate financial hardship, social disadvantage, or disability.
- Have a proven record of leadership and community engagement.
- Show a strong commitment to giving back to their communities after completing the programme.
- Not be enrolled in another tertiary institution at the time of application.
- Priority will be given to applicants in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programmes.
- The programme aims to award:
- 70% of scholarships to female applicants.
- 80% of scholarships to students in STEM disciplines.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants for the University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholarship will receive:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Monthly living stipend
- Accommodation support
- Laptop computer
- Learning materials
- Annual return airfare
- Psychosocial support services
- Academic mentoring, tutoring, and virtual learning support
- Career development services
- Industrial mentorship and internship opportunities
- Leadership development programmes
- Community service and Go-Back, Give-Back initiatives
- Membership in the global Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Network
Required Documents
To apply for this scholarship, applicants should prepare to submit:
- Completed application form
- Digital passport photograph (white background)
- National ID showing date of birth
- Scanned copy of National ID
- International passport (for international applicants)
- Refugee identification or supporting documents (for refugee applicants)
- Disability certificate (where applicable)
- Leadership certificates or evidence of leadership activities
How to Apply
To apply for the University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholarship:
- Visit the official University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholarship webpage.
- Create an application account using your email address.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
- Review your application carefully before submission.
- Submit your application before the August 22, 2026 deadline.
- You can log into your dashboard at any time to monitor your application status.
- Kindly wait for feedback.
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