Apply Now: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University 2026/2027
Are you an ambitious African youth seeking a fully funded scholarship to jumpstart your career? The prestigious Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University has officially opened applications for the 2026/2027 academic year.
This transformative partnership, which began in 2013, aims to empower the next generation of African leaders by providing high-quality university education to those facing financial barriers. With a new phase extending from 2024 to 2034, the program is set to deepen its impact across Sub-Saharan Africa.
Scholarship Overview
For the 2026/2027 intake, Makerere University is offering a total of 258 scholarships:
- 245 Undergraduate Scholarships
- 13 Master’s Scholarships
The goal is to support 1,000 young people in accessing quality education that leads to dignified and fulfilling work.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for this international scholarship in Uganda, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Nationality & Status: Must be from Sub-Saharan Africa. Categories include Refugees, IDPs, young persons with disabilities, international students, and youth from underrepresented or minority communities.
- Financial Need: Must demonstrate significant financial constraints that limit access to higher education.
- Leadership: Must show a proven track record in leadership or community service.
- Academic History:
- Undergraduate: Must have completed high school or a diploma (Second Class/Credit) in an African country.
- Masters: Must have completed an undergraduate degree in an African country.
- Age Limit:
- Undergraduate: 28 years or younger (32 for refugees/IDPs/PWDs).
- Masters: 35 years or younger (40 for refugees/IDPs/PWDs).
- Admission: You must have already applied for admission to Makerere University Main Campus under the private sponsorship scheme for 2026/2027.
Priority Degree Programmes
The scholarship prioritizes specific fields of study designed to drive African development.
High-Value Masters Programs
- STEM: M.Sc. Computer Science, M.Sc. Information Science.
- Health: M.Med in Pediatrics, M.Med in Obstetrics and Gynaecology.
- Business: MBA, M.A. Economic Policy Management.
- Law & Social Science: Master of Laws (LLM), Master of Social Work.
Undergraduate Fields of Study
- Engineering: Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, and Software Engineering.
- Agriculture: Food Science, Agribusiness, and Environmental Science.
- Medicine: Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery, Nursing, and Biomedical Engineering.
- Technology: Information Systems and Technology, Actuarial Science.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step)
Applying for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship is completely free of charge.
- Access the Portal: Visit the official Online Application Portal.
- Use a Computer: The university strongly recommends using a computer rather than a mobile device for a seamless application.
- Prepare Documents: Have your academic transcripts, refugee identity cards (if applicable), and leadership certificates ready.
- Submit Before Deadline: The closing date is Friday, 5th June 2026, at 11:59 PM EAT.
Contact for Inquiries: If you have questions, contact the scholarship office at +256 700-716-128 or email info@mastercardfdn.mak.ac.ug.
Why Choose Makerere University?
Makerere University is one of Africa’s oldest and most prestigious institutions. Through the Mastercard Foundation partnership, scholars don’t just receive tuition; they join a community built on Humility, Listening, Kindness, and Co-Creation. This is your chance to gain a world-class education and become a result-oriented leader.
Don’t miss the June 5th deadline! Share this with a talented student who deserves this opportunity.
