Makerere University Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University aims to deepen inclusive university education and support 1,000 young people from Africa to access quality education and transition into dignified and fulfilling work. This is achieved by providing scholarships to academically talented young men and women from Sub-Saharan Africa whose access to higher education is constrained by social and economic barriers.

Makerere University is pleased to announce 13 master’s scholarships under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for students joining the Makerere University Main Campus in the 2026/2027 academic year.

About MasterCard Foundation

The Mastercard Foundation is an international non-governmental organization established by Mastercard in 2006. The organization, which is based in Toronto, Ontario, has supported work in 49 countries.In 2018, Mastercard Foundation shifted to a specific focus on Africa, through its Young Africa Works strategy. The foundation develops programs primarily focused on reducing gender and economic inequality, expanding access to quality education, increasing the opportunities for decent work, and supporting overall economic growth.Funding is primaril... continue reading

Makerere University Mastercard Foundation Scholarship

Aim and Benefits of Makerere University Mastercard Foundation Scholarship

• Full Tuition Fee 
• Other Academic Support 

Requirements for Makerere University Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Qualification

To apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University's main campus

1. An applicant must belong to one of the following categories: 
   1. Refugee or Internally Displaced Person (IDP) 
   2. Young persons with disabilities  
   3. International students
   4. Young people living in a refugee host community
   5. Young people from underrepresented ethnic groups in Uganda
   6. Other Ugandan youth
2. The applicant must have applied for admission to Makerere University's main campus for 2026/2027.
3. The applicant must have completed their undergraduate education in an African country.
4. The applicant should be experiencing financial constraints that limit their ability to afford graduate education.
5. The applicant must not be a holder of any other scholarship.
6. The applicant must not be pursuing or have completed any Master’s degree studies.
7. The applicant must have demonstrated engagement in leadership and/or community service.
8. The applicant must be 35 years or younger at the application deadline. 
9. Applicants in the refugee, Internally Displaced Persons and s young persons with disabilities categories must be under 40 years of age at the application deadline.
10. A refugee applicant must hold a valid Refugee Identity card or Family Attestation documentation.
11. The applicant must have applied for degree programmes prioritised under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Click here to view the list of priority programmes.

Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for further selection engagements.

Applicants are advised to read the application guidelines below before completing the form.

Check also:Free Ongoing Fully Funded Scholarships Guide 2026 (Download Now)

Application Deadline

How to Apply

Prospective applicants for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University's main campus can access and complete the application form at no cost. 

For inquiries or clarifications, please call our office mobile line +256 700-716-128 or email [email protected] 

For more Information, visit Makerere University Mastercard Foundation Scholarship webpage