Makerere University, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, has officially opened applications for the 2026/2027 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, offering fully funded scholarships to academically talented but financially disadvantaged students across Africa.
The programme is part of a broader initiative aimed at expanding access to inclusive university education and supporting young people to transition into meaningful employment and leadership roles.
According to the announcement, the scholarship scheme will support 245 undergraduate and 13 master’s students who will join Makerere University’s main campus for the 2026/2027 academic year.
The programme specifically targets young people whose access to higher education is limited by social and economic barriers, including refugees, internally displaced persons, students with disabilities, and individuals from historically underserved communities.
Other eligible groups include international students, young people from refugee-hosting communities, and disadvantaged Ugandan youth.
Eligibility and selection criteria
Applicants for undergraduate programmes must have either completed advanced secondary education in an African country, obtained a diploma with at least a second-class qualification, or passed Makerere University’s mature age entry examinations.
Candidates must also demonstrate financial need, show evidence of leadership potential or community engagement, and must not be beneficiaries of any other scholarship scheme.
For master’s degree applicants, candidates must have completed undergraduate studies in Africa, demonstrate financial constraints, and must not have already attained a master’s degree.
Age limits apply, with undergraduate applicants required to be 28 years or younger, while special categories such as refugees and persons with disabilities may have a slightly higher age threshold.
Focus on leadership and impact
Beyond academic excellence, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program places strong emphasis on leadership development and community impact. Applicants are expected to demonstrate active involvement in community service or leadership initiatives.
Officials say the programme is designed not only to produce graduates but also future change-makers who can contribute to Africa’s social and economic transformation.
Application process and deadline
Prospective applicants are required to apply online through the official application portal. The process is free of charge, and applicants must also apply for admission to eligible degree programmes under the scholarship.
The deadline for submission of applications is Friday, June 5, 2026, at 11:59 PM (EAT).
Supporting Africa’s future
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program continues to play a key role in bridging the education gap across Africa, enabling talented students to access quality university education regardless of financial background.
Officials at Makerere University say the initiative reflects a shared commitment to equity, innovation, and human capital development, positioning graduates to drive progress across the continent.
