Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University 2026/2027: Fully Funded Master’s Scholarships

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University stands as one of Africa’s most impactful initiatives for transforming talented but economically disadvantaged young people into future leaders. For the 2026/2027 academic year, Makerere University is offering 13 fully funded master’s scholarships to students joining the Main Campus in Kampala, Uganda. This opportunity forms part of the broader partnership that aims to support 1,000 young Africans with quality education and pathways to dignified, fulfilling work.

Unlike many scholarships that focus solely on academic merit, this program prioritizes inclusivity, leadership potential, community engagement, and financial need. It targets young Africans facing social and economic barriers, with a strong emphasis on equity: at least 70% of awards go to young women, 25% to refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs), and 10% to young people with disabilities. If you are a driven African professional or recent graduate ready to contribute meaningfully to your community and continent, this could be your launchpad.

Scholarship Overview

• Number of Awards: 13 master’s scholarships
• Level: Master’s (postgraduate) degrees
• Host Institution: Makerere University Main Campus, Kampala, Uganda
• Funding Type: Fully funded (comprehensive support including tuition, living expenses, academic materials, and transition support)
• Target Group: Academically talented young Africans from Sub-Saharan Africa, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds
• Application Deadline: Friday, 5th June 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EAT
• Application Portal: https://apply.mastercardfoundation.mak.ac.ug/ (free of charge; use a computer for best results)

The program goes beyond financial support. Scholars receive holistic development opportunities, including leadership training, mentorship, community service engagement, and assistance with internships or placements (typically 3-6 months) to ease the transition into meaningful employment or entrepreneurship.

Why This Program Matters: Vision and Impact

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University seeks to deepen inclusive university education across Africa. It recognizes that many bright young minds are held back not by lack of talent, but by financial constraints, displacement, disability, or systemic underrepresentation. By investing in these scholars, the program builds a network of transformative leaders who drive sustainable development in their home countries and communities.

Makerere University, one of Africa’s oldest and most respected institutions, provides a vibrant academic environment with strong programs in education, business, health, social sciences, agriculture, and more. Scholars benefit from world-class faculty, research opportunities, and a campus culture that encourages innovation and service. Past scholars have gone on to lead in NGOs, government, private sector, and social enterprises, creating ripple effects across the continent.

For Ethiopian applicants (or those from similar contexts in East Africa), this scholarship offers an accessible regional option. Studying in Uganda allows cultural proximity, lower adjustment challenges, and direct relevance to shared regional development issues like agriculture, public health, education policy, and economic management.

Detailed Eligibility Criteria

To be competitive, you must meet all the following requirements:

1. Category Fit: You must belong to one of these priority groups:

• Refugee or Internally Displaced Person (IDP)
• Young person with disabilities
• International student (from outside Uganda)
• Young person living in a refugee host community
• Young person from an underrepresented ethnic group in Uganda
• Other Ugandan youth

1. Admission Requirement: You must have applied (or plan to apply) for admission to a master’s program at Makerere University Main Campus for the 2026/2027 academic year.
2. Undergraduate Background: Your bachelor’s degree must have been completed in an African country.
3. Financial Need: You must demonstrate clear social and economic barriers that prevent you from affording graduate education without support.
4. No Other Funding: You must not hold any other scholarship or be receiving financial support for the same studies.
5. Master’s Status: You must not be currently pursuing or have already completed a master’s degree.
6. Leadership & Service: You must show proven engagement in leadership roles and/or community service activities.
7. Age Limit:

• 35 years or younger as of the application deadline (5 June 2026) for most applicants.
• Up to 40 years for refugees, IDPs, and young persons with disabilities.

1. Refugee Documentation: Refugee applicants must hold a valid Refugee Identity card or Family Attestation documentation.
2. Priority Programs: You must apply for one of the prioritized master’s programs aligned with the Foundation’s focus on development, education, leadership, and employability. (See full list below.)

Note on Quotas: The program strongly encourages applications from young women, refugees/IDPs, and persons with disabilities to meet the targeted distribution.

Priority Master’s Programmes for 2026/2027

Only applications to the following prioritized programs will be considered. These fields emphasize practical skills for community impact, policy, education, and economic development:

A. College of Education and External Studies (CEES)

• Master of Adult and Community Education
• Master of Instructional Design and Technology
• Master of Education (options include: Educational Management, Foundations of Education, Educational Policy and Planning, Early Childhood Education and Development, Language and Literature Education, Social Science and Humanities Education, Science Education)

B. College of Business and Management Sciences (COBAMS)

• MA in Economic Policy Management
• Master of Business Administration (MBA)
• Other relevant programs in public infrastructure management and economic planning (check the official updated list for complete details)

Additional programs across other colleges may include areas like rural development, human rights, journalism and communication, educational psychology, and more. Always verify the exact current list via the application portal or the official PDF link provided on the announcement page, as minor updates can occur.

What the Scholarship Covers (Benefits)

As a fully funded opportunity, the scholarship typically includes:

• Full tuition and university fees
• Monthly living stipend for accommodation, meals, and personal expenses
• Academic support (books, research materials, laptop where needed)
• Medical insurance or health services
• Leadership and mentorship programs
• Internship/placement support for post-study transition
• Community service and networking opportunities within the global Mastercard Foundation Scholars alumni network

This comprehensive package removes financial barriers so scholars can focus fully on academic excellence and personal growth.

Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Apply for University Admission First
   Contact the Department of Academic Registrar at Makerere University for admission into your chosen master’s program under the Private Sponsorship Scheme. The scholarship application is separate but requires proof of admission application.
2. Prepare Your Documents
   Gather academic transcripts, bachelor’s degree certificate, CV, proof of financial need (e.g., family background statement), evidence of leadership/community service, and any required category-specific documents (e.g., refugee ID).
3. Complete the Online Scholarship Application
   Visit https://apply.mastercardfoundation.mak.ac.ug/
   Fill the form carefully. Use a computer for better experience. Provide detailed, honest responses highlighting your challenges, achievements, and future vision.
4. Submit Before Deadline
   5 June 2026, 11:59 p.m. EAT — late or incomplete applications are automatically disqualified.
5. Selection Stages
   Only shortlisted candidates receive communication for interviews or further engagements. Successful applicants are notified progressively, with final decisions expected by the end of August 2026. If you do not hear back by then, consider your application unsuccessful.

Important Warnings:

• The entire process is free — beware of fraudsters asking for money.
• Zero tolerance for dishonesty, falsified documents, or attempts to influence the process (may lead to disqualification, repayment, or legal action).
• Filling the form does not guarantee selection or admission.

Strategic Tips for a Strong Application (Especially for Ethiopian and East African Applicants)

• Tell Your Story Authentically: Clearly explain your financial and social barriers while showcasing resilience, leadership, and community impact. Use specific examples — e.g., “I volunteered with a local health initiative that reached 500 rural households” carries more weight than generic statements.
• Align with Priority Areas: Choose a program that connects your background to continental challenges like education access, economic policy, climate-resilient agriculture, or inclusive development.
• Highlight Leadership: Detail roles in student organizations, community projects, or professional initiatives. The program values service-oriented mindsets.
• Address Return and Impact: Articulate how the master’s will equip you to contribute back home — whether in policy, education reform, entrepreneurship, or social enterprise.
• For Persons with Disabilities or Refugees/IDPs: Emphasize your unique perspectives and how the scholarship will amplify your voice and capabilities.
• Gender Lens: Young women are particularly encouraged — highlight any additional barriers you have overcome.

Prepare early: Start your university admission application now, as delays could affect your scholarship timeline. Proofread everything meticulously.

Who Should Apply — And Who Might Not Be Competitive

Strong Candidates:

• Academically solid graduates with clear financial need
• Individuals with demonstrated leadership or volunteer experience
• Refugees, IDPs, persons with disabilities, or those from marginalized communities
• Young Africans (especially women) committed to community and national development
• Applicants whose chosen program aligns with sustainable development goals

Less Competitive Profiles:

• Those without proven financial constraints
• Applicants already holding or pursuing another master’s
• Candidates over the age limit without qualifying for the extended category
• Applications lacking evidence of leadership or service

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Submitting incomplete forms
• Failing to apply for a priority program
• Providing vague or emotional narratives without concrete examples
• Missing the strict deadline
• Not preparing strong supporting documents

Final Verdict: Is This Opportunity Worth Pursuing?

Absolutely — if you meet the criteria and are ready to invest in your growth for the benefit of your community. With only 13 slots, competition is high, but the rewards are transformative: world-class education, a powerful network, and tools to create lasting change.

For young Ethiopians and other East Africans, this represents a practical, regionally accessible pathway to advanced studies without the high costs of studying in Europe or North America. The focus on transition to work ensures you graduate not just with a degree, but with momentum toward impactful employment or entrepreneurship.

Actionable Checklist for 2026/2027 Applicants

1. Confirm you fit one of the eligible categories and age requirements.
2. Apply for admission to a prioritized master’s program at Makerere University Main Campus.
3. Gather all required documents and evidence of leadership/financial need.
4. Visit the portal (https://apply.mastercardfoundation.mak.ac.ug/) and complete the scholarship form carefully.
5. Submit by 5 June 2026, 11:59 p.m. EAT.
6. Prepare for possible interviews if shortlisted.
7. For inquiries: Call +256 700-716-128 or email info@mastercardfdn.mak.ac.ug.

Read the full guidelines on the portal before starting. Only shortlisted applicants proceed.

This scholarship is more than funding it is an investment in Africa’s future leaders. If you are a resilient, service-driven young African facing barriers but committed to excellence, apply with purpose and integrity.

Applications are open now. Start preparing today to maximize your chances.