Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda 2026–2027: Fully Funded Master's Scholarships Now Open (3rd Cohort)
The University of Rwanda (UR), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, has officially opened applications for the 3rd Cohort of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for the 2026–2027 Academic Year.
This prestigious scholarship offers fully funded Master's degree opportunities to academically talented but economically disadvantaged young Africans, with a strong emphasis on developing ethical, innovative, and transformative leaders who will contribute to Africa's sustainable development.
If you aspire to pursue postgraduate studies without financial barriers while receiving leadership training, professional mentorship, internships, and career development support, this opportunity is designed for you.
About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda is a 10-year partnership established to expand access to quality higher education for talented African youth who face financial and social barriers.
The program particularly supports:
- Economically disadvantaged students
- Women pursuing STEM education
- Refugees
- Young people living with disabilities
- Youth from conflict and post-conflict regions
Beyond academic excellence, the program aims to produce graduates who become transformational leaders, entrepreneurs, innovators, and community change-makers across Africa.
Scholarship Overview
Application Period
Applications are officially open from:
Opening Date: 24 July 2026
Application Deadline: 22 August 2026 at 11:59 PM (Central Africa Time)
Late applications will not be accepted.
ELIGIBILITY CRETERIA (Who Can Apply?)
Applicants must:
- Have applied for admission into a University of Rwanda Master's programme for the September 2026 intake.
- Be admitted into a Master's programme lasting two years.
- Hold a Bachelor's degree related to their intended Master's programme.
- Be a citizen of Rwanda or another African country.
- Refugee applicants must possess valid certification from UNHCR, MINEMA, or another legally recognized authority.
- Demonstrate financial need.
- Demonstrate leadership potential.
- Show strong community engagement.
- Be committed to giving back to their communities after graduation.
- Not currently be enrolled in another tertiary institution.
Age Requirements
Applicants should meet the following age limits:
- Male applicants: Not more than 40 years
- Female applicants: Not more than 45 years
Priority Groups
The scholarship strongly encourages applications from:
- Women
- Refugees
- Persons with Disabilities
- Economically disadvantaged youth
- Students from conflict and post-conflict areas
Additionally:
- 70% of scholarships will be awarded to women.
- 80% of scholarships will be allocated to students pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programmes.
STEM Priority Programmes
The University of Rwanda encourages applications from eligible students pursuing Master's programmes in:
- Engineering
- Technology
- Computer Science
- Information Systems
- Mathematics
- Physical Sciences
- Agriculture
- Environmental Sciences
- Other STEM-related disciplines
Applicants in non-STEM fields may also apply if they satisfy the programme requirements.
Scholarship Benefits
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides one of the most comprehensive scholarship packages available in Africa.
Successful applicants will receive:
- Full tuition fees
- Laptop computer
- Learning materials
- Monthly living stipend
- Annual return transport allowance
- Psycho-social support services
- Academic mentoring
- Tutoring support
- Virtual learning support
- Career guidance
- Professional development training
- Industrial mentorship
- Enterprise development support
- Leadership training
- Community engagement opportunities
- Internships with industry partners
- Access to Mastercard Foundation Scholars Global Network
- Alumni networking opportunities
Leadership and Professional Development
The programme goes beyond financial support.
Scholars will benefit from:
- Leadership congresses
- Entrepreneurship development
- Community service initiatives
- Professional mentorship
- Personal development workshops
- Networking events
- Go-Back and Give-Back community projects
Graduates are expected to become influential leaders capable of transforming their communities and contributing to Africa's development.
Required Supporting Documents
During the online application process, applicants must upload all required supporting documents.
Important requirements include:
- Documents must be saved in PDF format
- Each file must be less than 250 KB
- File names should include the applicant's full name
Applicants are encouraged to prepare all documents before beginning the application.
Selection Process
Selection will include several stages:
- Online application
- Eligibility screening
- Pre-selection
- Oral interview
- Home verification visits (for selected candidates)
- Final approval
Only shortlisted applicants will be invited for interviews.
Important Information
Applicants should note that:
- The scholarship application is completely free.
- No application fees are required.
- No agents or intermediaries are authorized.
- Any falsified information will lead to immediate disqualification.
- The University of Rwanda may conduct home verification visits.
- Scholarship renewal each year depends on satisfactory academic performance.
- Successful scholars are expected to maintain contact with the University of Rwanda for at least five years after graduation.
How to Apply
Eligible candidates should complete the online application through the official Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program portal after applying for admission to the University of Rwanda Master's programmes.
Applicants should carefully complete every section before submitting the application.
Why You Should Apply
This scholarship is more than financial assistance.
It provides:
- World-class postgraduate education
- Leadership development
- International networking
- Career preparation
- Professional internships
- Entrepreneurial skills
- Community impact opportunities
- Membership in the Mastercard Foundation Global Scholars Network
For talented African students seeking to make a lasting impact, this is one of the most competitive and rewarding postgraduate scholarship opportunities available.
Application Deadline
22 August 2026 Time: 11:59 PM (CAT)
Official Source
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda continues to invest in Africa's future by empowering academically gifted students who possess leadership potential but face financial barriers to higher education.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and are passionate about creating positive change in your community, this fully funded Master's scholarship offers an exceptional opportunity to advance your education while joining a network of Africa's future leaders.
Apply before the deadline and take the next step toward achieving your academic and professional goals.