University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027 for Young Africans (Fully Funded) – Apply Now

Application Deadline: August 22nd, 2026

About the Program

Applications are now open for the 2026/2027 University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Through this competitive opportunity, the University of Rwanda will recruit 30 scholars for eligible two-year master’s degree programmes. The scholarship is designed for academically talented African students who demonstrate substantial economic or social disadvantage, leadership potential, commitment to community service, and the ability to contribute positively to their countries and the African continent. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda is a 10-year partnership (2021–2031) between the University of Rwanda and the Mastercard Foundation that aims to develop the next generation of transformative leaders by enabling highly talented, service-oriented young people, primarily young Africans, to pursue higher education and cultivate their leadership potential.

Target Categories

Over a period of 10 years, the University of Rwanda will enroll 1,200 Mastercard Foundation Scholars. Young people, particularly women (70%), refugees (25%), and people with disabilities (10%), will be prioritized.

• Degree Level: 90% of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars will be admitted to undergraduate programs, while 10% will enroll in master’s programs
• Nationality: 85% of the scholars will be Rwandan, while 15% will be international students
• Field of Study: 80% will pursue Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) programs, while 20% will be admitted to non-STEM programs

Eligibility Requirements

• Be a citizen of Rwanda or any African country, a refugee, or a displaced young person in Africa
• Be academically qualified
• Demonstrate critical social and/or economic needs and/or disability
• For undergraduate applicants, be not older than 28 years at the time of application, or not older than 30 years for those with certified proof of a protracted life condition (e.g., refugees, single mothers, members of child-headed families, etc.)
• For postgraduate applicants, be not older than 40 years for males and not older than 45 years for females at the time of application
• Meet the admission criteria for eligible programs at the University of Rwanda
• Have proven records of leadership and community engagement
• Show a strong commitment to community engagement and be prepared to “Go Back” and/or “Give Back” to their community
• Refugees and individuals with disabilities are expected to provide legal proof of their status

Program Benefits

• Comprehensive financial support: Full tuition fees, fully paid on-campus accommodation, a laptop, learning materials, an annual return ticket allowance, and a full-year monthly stipend
• Psycho-social support services
• Uniquely sourced internships with industry partners for professional development
• Continued academic support through academic mentorship, virtual learning, and tutoring
• Career development services: Industrial mentorship, career guidance, and professional development
• Regular group meetings with other scholars, focusing on personal and professional development opportunities
• Opportunities to participate in leadership congresses, community service, and mentoring through the “Go Back, Give Back” initiative
• The prestige of becoming part of the growing Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni network and connecting with the Global Scholars Community

How to Apply

Application Link: Click here

Why This Program Matters

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda is a transformative initiative that provides comprehensive support to academically talented African students who face economic or social disadvantages. By prioritizing women, refugees, and people with disabilities, the program promotes inclusive access to higher education and develops the next generation of leaders committed to giving back to their communities.

For young Africans who are citizens of Rwanda or any African country, refugees, or displaced young people in Africa, this program offers:

• Fully funded master’s degree at the University of Rwanda
• Comprehensive financial support including tuition, accommodation, stipend, and learning materials
• Career development services and internship opportunities
• Leadership development through the “Go Back, Give Back” initiative
• Membership in the global Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni network

For More Information: Visit the Official University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Page