About scholarships
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda is part of the Foundation’s Young Africa Works Strategy, which seeks to enable millions of young Africans to access dignified and fulfilling work through quality education, leadership development, and career readiness.
The postgraduate scholarship supports academically talented students who demonstrate leadership potential, financial need, and a strong commitment to serving their communities. Beyond financial support, scholars participate in leadership training, mentorship, career development, entrepreneurship activities, community engagement, and networking opportunities designed to prepare them for impactful careers across Africa.
Program Benefits
Successful applicants will receive a comprehensive scholarship package that includes:
- Full tuition fees
- University accommodation
- Monthly living stipend
- Meals and subsistence support
- Health insurance
- Learning materials and academic resources
- Laptop computer
- Leadership development programmes
- Mentorship and coaching
- Career guidance and employability training
- Entrepreneurship and innovation support
- Community engagement opportunities
- Access to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Network
The scholarship is designed to remove financial barriers while providing scholars with the leadership and professional skills needed to create lasting impact in Africa.
covered
- Tuition fees
- Living allowance
- Flight/travel costs
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
- Completed online scholarship application
- Passport-size photograph
- National ID or Passport
- Academic degree certificate(s)
- Official academic transcripts
- Admission documents (where applicable)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Leadership certificates or supporting evidence
- Personal statement
- Refugee documentation (if applicable)
- Disability certificate (if applicable)
- Any additional documents requested during the application process
Applicants with foreign qualifications may be required to obtain academic equivalency from the relevant Rwandan authorities before enrollment.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of an African country.
- Have secured or be eligible for admission into an eligible Master’s programme at the University of Rwanda.
- Demonstrate outstanding academic achievement.
- Show evidence of financial need or limited access to educational opportunities.
- Demonstrate strong leadership potential.
- Show commitment to community service and social impact.
- Be willing to study full-time at the University of Rwanda.
The programme particularly encourages applications from:
- Young women
- Refugees and displaced youth
- Persons with disabilities
- Youth from marginalized communities
Applicants are assessed based on academic talent (30%), economic disadvantage (45%), and leadership potential (25%).
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program recruitment portal.
Follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the official Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application portal.
- Create a new applicant account using your email address.
- Verify your account and log in.
- Complete all sections of the online application form.
- Upload the required supporting documents.
- Review your application carefully to ensure all information is accurate.
- Submit your application before the deadline.
- Track your application status through your online dashboard.
Important: Applications for the Third Cohort 2027 are open from 23 July 2026 and close on 22 August 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants should ensure all supporting documents are uploaded before submitting their application.