Makerere University Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027: Apply Now

Applications are now open for the Makerere University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027. This fully funded initiative offers 13 master’s scholarships at Makerere University Main Campus for the 2026/2027 academic year. The application deadline is 5th June 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EAT. It targets academically talented young people from Sub-Saharan Africa who face social and economic barriers to higher education. This article covers eligibility rules, how to apply, and program goals to help you decide if you qualify.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University works to make university education more inclusive. It supports 1,000 young Africans in getting quality education and moving into good jobs. The focus stays on people from Sub-Saharan Africa held back by poverty or other issues. For 2026/2027, these 13 master’s scholarships go to students at the main campus in Uganda. They are fully funded to remove money worries.

Key Takeaways

• Applications are open for 13 fully funded master’s scholarships at Makerere University Main Campus for 2026/2027, with a deadline of June 5, 2026.
• The program targets Sub-Saharan Africans from groups like refugees, disabled youth, and those facing financial hardship, aged 35 or under.
• Eligibility requires admission to a prioritized program, no prior master’s, leadership experience, and no other scholarships.
• Scholarships cover tuition, living expenses, and leadership training to support careers after graduation.

Application Deadline: 5th June 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EAT.
Applications opened on March 24, 2026—act fast to meet this key date.

To qualify for the Makerere University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027 at the main campus, check these 11 criteria:

1. You must belong to one of these groups: Refugee or Internally Displaced Person (IDP), young persons with disabilities, international students, young people living in a refugee host community, young people from underrepresented ethnic groups in Uganda, or other Ugandan youth.
2. You must have applied for admission to Makerere University’s main campus for 2026/2027.
3. You must have completed your undergraduate education in an African country.
4. You should face financial constraints that make graduate education hard to afford.
5. You must not hold any other scholarship.
6. You must not be pursuing or have completed any Master’s degree studies.
7. You must have shown engagement in leadership and/or community service.
8. You must be 35 years or younger at the application deadline.
9. Applicants in refugee, IDP, or young persons with disabilities categories must be under 40 years old at the deadline.
10. Refugee applicants must hold a valid Refugee Identity card or Family Attestation documentation.
11. You must have applied for degree programmes prioritized under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

Applicants need to pick from prioritized degree programmes on the official list. You can find the full details of these programmes at the Makerere University Mastercard Foundation portal. Make sure your admission application matches one of these to stay eligible.

Here is a simple step-by-step guide to apply:

1. First, apply for admission to a prioritized Master’s programme at Makerere University Main Campus for 2026/2027.
2. Then, submit your scholarship application through the official portal.
3. Include all required documents, such as proof of category (like a refugee ID if needed).

Get full details and start your application at the official announcement page.

These scholarships are fully funded and cover key needs:

• Tuition fees.
• Living expenses.
• Support for leadership training and job transition skills.

The program helps scholars move into dignified work after graduation.

Selection goes beyond basic eligibility. Judges look for academic talent, leadership, and community service. The program prioritizes underrepresented groups like refugees, disabled youth, and ethnic minorities from Sub-Saharan Africa. Key factors include:

• Strong academic record.
• Proof of financial need.
• Commitment to community impact.

So far, it has supported 1,000 scholars overall with real career gains.

Check out these related opportunities:

• Arizona State University Mastercard Foundation Scholarships for innovation and tech studies.
• MTN Foundation Y’ellopreneur Program for Nigerian female entrepreneurs.
• Mastercard Foundation Associates Program for young Africans (12-month internship with stipend).

The Makerere University Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027 offers a great chance for talented young Africans facing barriers to pursue fully funded master’s degrees. It covers tuition, living costs, and skills training to help you succeed. Check your eligibility and apply before the June 5, 2026 deadline at the official portal.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the application deadline for the Makerere Mastercard Scholars Program?

The deadline is June 5, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EAT, so start your application soon.

Who can apply for these scholarships?

Young people from Sub-Saharan Africa facing barriers like poverty, refugees, disabled youth, or underrepresented groups, aged 35 or under, with strong academics and leadership.

What does the scholarship cover?

It fully funds tuition, living expenses, leadership training, and job skills to help scholars succeed.

How do I apply?

First apply for admission to a prioritized master’s program at Makerere Main Campus, then submit your scholarship application with required documents via the official portal.