The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda (UR) provides talented young people with an opportunity to pursue higher education while receiving comprehensive financial and academic support. The program is part of a 10-year partnership between the University of Rwanda and the Mastercard Foundation running from 2021 to 2031, with the goal of developing the next generation of transformative African leaders.

The program is designed particularly for academically talented young people who face significant social and economic barriers to accessing higher education. It places emphasis on young women, refugees and displaced youth, young people with disabilities, and students from other disadvantaged backgrounds. The program also has a strong focus on STEM education.

What Does the Scholarship Cover?

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda offers comprehensive support to selected scholars. Depending on the program and applicable arrangements, support can include:

• Full tuition and registration fees
• On-campus accommodation
• Living and educational support
• Laptop and other learning materials
• Academic mentorship and support
• Leadership development and training
• Psychosocial support
• Entrepreneurship and career-development opportunities
• Internship and professional networking opportunities
• Support during the transition from university to employment

The program is intended to support students beyond simply obtaining a university degree. Scholars are prepared for meaningful employment, entrepreneurship, leadership and community engagement.

Who Can Apply?

Eligibility requirements depend on the specific intake and level of study. In general, the program targets academically talented young people who demonstrate leadership potential, community-service commitment and significant socioeconomic need.

Eligible applicants may include citizens of Rwanda and other African countries, as well as refugees and displaced young people in Africa. Applicants must also satisfy the academic and admission requirements applicable to their chosen University of Rwanda program.

The scholarship is generally intended for newly admitted students who have not yet started their studies at the University of Rwanda. Applicants must therefore pay close attention to both University admission requirements and the separate scholarship application process.

2026/27 Application

For the 2026/27 academic year, undergraduate scholarship applications are currently open through the program’s online recruitment system. The stated deadline is 12 October 2026 at 23:59 Kigali time. The postgraduate scholarship intake for 2026/27 has already closed, with applications having been accepted from 23 July to 25 August 2026.

Applicants should carefully review the official eligibility requirements and prepare all required information before beginning the online application.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should apply through the official Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program recruitment portal at the University of Rwanda. Applicants are encouraged to use the official website and recruitment portal for the latest information about eligible programs, requirements, deadlines and selection announcements.

The program seeks young people who can combine academic potential with leadership, resilience and a commitment to contributing to their communities and the wider transformation of Africa.