Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program – Master’s Scholarships 2026/2027 @Master’s Scholarships 2026/2027

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University is offering 13 fully funded Master’s scholarships for the 2026/2027 academic year. This initiative is designed to expand access to inclusive, high-quality graduate education for talented young Africans facing financial and social barriers.

The program aims to support 1,000 young people across Africa, equipping them with the education, leadership skills, and professional development needed to transition into meaningful and sustainable careers.

Program Overview

The scholarship program focuses on empowering academically strong individuals who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to community impact.

Key highlights include:

• Number of Scholarships: 13 Master’s awards
• Study Location: Makerere University Main Campus, Uganda
• Academic Year: 2026/2027
• Target Group: Youth from Sub-Saharan Africa facing financial constraints

The program integrates academic training with leadership development to prepare scholars for impactful roles in their communities and beyond.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet a comprehensive set of academic, social, and demographic requirements to qualify for the scholarship.

General eligibility requirements:

• Must have completed an undergraduate degree in an African country
• Must have applied for admission to Makerere University for 2026/2027
• Must demonstrate financial need
• Must not hold or have completed a Master’s degree
• Must not be a beneficiary of another scholarship
• Must show evidence of leadership and/or community service
• Must be 35 years old or younger

Extended age limit (up to 40 years) applies to:

• Refugees
• Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)
• Persons with disabilities

Eligible applicant categories include:

• Refugees and internally displaced persons
• Young people with disabilities
• International applicants
• Individuals from refugee-hosting communities
• Youth from underrepresented ethnic groups in Uganda
• Other eligible Ugandan youth

Applicants must also possess valid documentation where applicable, such as refugee identification or official resettlement letters.

Application Process

Applications are submitted online through the official Makerere University portal and are completely free of charge.

Steps to apply:

• Apply for admission to Makerere University’s main campus
• Complete the scholarship application form via the online portal
• Submit all required documentation before the deadline

Applicants are strongly encouraged to use a computer when completing the application to ensure accuracy and completeness.

Key Dates and Timeline

• Application Deadline: 5 June 2026 at 11:59 p.m. (EAT)
• Selection Feedback: By the end of August 2026
• Application Mode: Online submission only

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further stages of the selection process.

Scholarship Allocation and Inclusion Targets

The program is committed to equity and inclusion, with specific targets to ensure fair representation across different groups.

Allocation targets include:

• At least 70% of scholarships awarded to young women
• A minimum of 30% awarded to young men
• At least 25% reserved for refugees and internally displaced persons
• A minimum of 10% allocated to persons with disabilities

These targets reflect the program’s mission to support marginalized and underrepresented populations.

Important Guidelines and Conditions

Applicants must adhere strictly to the program’s guidelines to avoid disqualification.

Key conditions include:

• Incomplete applications will be automatically disqualified
• Providing false information or falsified documents will result in immediate disqualification
• Any attempt to influence the selection process will lead to rejection
• Successful applicants must comply with all program requirements

The program operates under strict merit-based principles with zero tolerance for fraud or misconduct.

Fraud Warning and Ethical Compliance

Makerere University strongly cautions applicants against fraudulent schemes related to the scholarship process.

Important notes:

• The application process is entirely free of charge
• No ব্যক্তি or organization is authorized to charge fees for application assistance
• Fraudulent activities will be prosecuted under Ugandan law

Applicants are encouraged to report suspicious activity and rely only on official communication channels.

Program Impact and Benefits

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides more than financial support—it offers a holistic development experience.

Participants benefit from:

• Access to quality graduate education
• Leadership and professional development training
• Opportunities for community engagement
• Career transition support

The program aims to produce graduates who are not only academically accomplished but also socially responsible leaders.

Conclusion

The Master’s Scholarships at Makerere University under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program present a life-changing opportunity for talented African youth. By removing financial barriers and fostering leadership development, the program empowers scholars to contribute meaningfully to their communities and the broader continent.

Prospective applicants who meet the eligibility criteria and demonstrate strong academic and leadership potential are encouraged to apply and take a significant step toward advancing their future.

VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization offering the scholarship. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails, we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.