Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at University of Rwanda 2026/27 – Fully Funded

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda (UR) provides talented young people with an opportunity to pursue higher education while receiving comprehensive financial, academic and leadership support.

The program is part of a 10-year partnership between the University of Rwanda and the Mastercard Foundation running from 2021 to 2031, aimed at developing the next generation of transformative African leaders.

The program particularly supports academically talented young people who face significant social and economic barriers to accessing higher education, with a strong focus on young women, refugees and displaced youth, young people with disabilities, and other disadvantaged students. It also places emphasis on STEM education.

Scholarship Benefits

Selected scholars may receive comprehensive support, including:

  • Full tuition and registration fees

  • On-campus accommodation

  • Living and educational support

  • Laptop and other learning materials

  • Academic mentorship and support

  • Leadership development and training

  • Psychosocial support

  • Entrepreneurship and career-development opportunities

  • Internship and professional networking opportunities

  • Support during the transition from university to employment

The program aims to support scholars beyond obtaining a university degree by preparing them for employment, entrepreneurship, leadership and community engagement.

Who Can Apply?

Eligibility requirements may vary depending on the specific intake and level of study.

The program generally targets academically talented young people who demonstrate:

  • Strong academic potential

  • Leadership potential

  • Commitment to community service

  • Significant socioeconomic need

Eligible applicants may include Rwandan citizens, citizens of other African countries, refugees and displaced young people in Africa, subject to the specific eligibility requirements of the intake.

Applicants must also meet the academic and admission requirements of their chosen University of Rwanda programme.

The scholarship is generally intended for newly admitted students who have not yet started their studies at the University of Rwanda.

2026/27 Undergraduate Intake

For the 2026/27 academic year, undergraduate scholarship applications are currently open through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program online recruitment system.

Application Deadline: 12 October 2026 at 23:59 Kigali time

The 2026/27 postgraduate scholarship intake has already closed, with applications accepted from 23 July to 25 August 2026.

Applicants should carefully review the official eligibility requirements and prepare all required information before starting the application.

How to Apply

Applicants should apply through the official Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program recruitment portal at the University of Rwanda.

Before applying, candidates should check:

  • Eligible University of Rwanda programmes

  • Academic requirements

  • Scholarship eligibility criteria

  • Required documents

  • Application procedures

  • Deadline and selection information

Applicants should use the official University of Rwanda and Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program platforms for the latest information.

Company / Organization

University of Rwanda (UR) / Mastercard Foundation

Location

Rwanda

Study Level

Undergraduate

Funding

Fully Funded

Deadline

12 October 2026 at 23:59 Kigali Time

CLICK HERE TO READ MORE AND APPLY