The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda 2027 is a fully funded scholarship opportunity designed to support academically talented and service-oriented young Africans who face social and economic barriers to higher education. Through a 10-year partnership between the University of Rwanda and the Mastercard Foundation, the program aims to develop the next generation of ethical and transformative leaders who will drive sustainable development across Africa.
The scholarship provides comprehensive financial support alongside leadership development, mentorship, career preparation, entrepreneurship training, and networking opportunities. Open to undergraduate and selected master’s students, the program empowers scholars to excel academically while preparing them to make meaningful contributions to their communities and the continent.
About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda is a long-term initiative that supports talented young people from Rwanda and across Africa who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to community service.
Running from 2021 to 2031, the program aims to enroll 1,200 scholars, with approximately 90% pursuing bachelor’s degrees and 10% enrolled in master’s programmes. Its mission is to cultivate leaders who will contribute to Africa’s transformation through education, innovation, entrepreneurship, and social impact.
Scholarship Benefits
Successful scholars receive comprehensive support throughout their studies.
The scholarship covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Fully funded on-campus accommodation
- Laptop computer
- Learning materials
- Academic mentorship
- Psychosocial support
- Leadership development training
- Entrepreneurship skills development
- Internship opportunities
- Career development support
- Networking with other young African leaders
Beyond financial assistance, scholars participate in a structured development programme that prepares them for successful careers and lifelong leadership.
Who Can Apply?
The program targets academically talented young people facing significant social and economic barriers to higher education.
Eligible applicants include:
- Citizens of Rwanda
- Citizens of other African countries
- Refugees living in Africa
- Displaced young people in Africa
Applicants must also:
- Be academically qualified.
- Demonstrate leadership potential.
- Show a strong commitment to giving back to their communities.
The scholarship is intended for newly admitted students who have not yet started their studies at the University of Rwanda.
Target Categories
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program places special emphasis on increasing access to higher education for underrepresented groups.
Priority categories include:
- Young women
- Youth with disabilities
- Refugees
- Displaced youth
The programme seeks to create an inclusive learning environment that enables talented young Africans from diverse backgrounds to succeed.
Available Study Levels
The scholarship supports selected academic programmes at the University of Rwanda, including:
Undergraduate Programmes
Approximately 90% of scholarship recipients pursue bachelor’s degree programmes across eligible fields of study.
Master’s Programmes
Around 10% of scholars are admitted to eligible master’s degree programmes.
The list of eligible programmes is provided through the University’s scholarship application portal.
Scholar Development Journey
The programme follows a comprehensive Scholars Acceleration Cycle, supporting students from admission through career development.
The journey includes:
Recruitment
Selection of academically talented students with leadership potential.
Education
Academic support that enables scholars to excel throughout their university studies.
Preparation
Training that equips scholars with leadership, employability, and entrepreneurial skills.
Transition
Career readiness support to facilitate successful entry into employment, entrepreneurship, or further education.
After Graduation Support
Continued assistance that helps graduates build meaningful careers and contribute to society.
Giving Back
Community engagement is a core component of the programme, encouraging scholars to apply their knowledge and leadership skills to positively impact their communities.
Career and Leadership Development
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program emphasizes holistic development beyond academic success.
Scholars benefit from:
- Leadership training
- Career coaching
- Internship placements
- Entrepreneurship development
- Professional networking
- Research and innovation opportunities
- Employability support
These experiences prepare graduates to become ethical leaders capable of driving sustainable development across Africa.
Programme Impact
The programme has already made significant progress in supporting inclusive education.
Current programme highlights include:
- Hundreds of scholars recruited.
- More than 70% female scholars.
- More than 80% enrolled in STEM programmes.
- Approximately 25% refugees.
- More than 10% scholars with disabilities.
- Students representing multiple African countries.
These achievements reflect the programme’s commitment to expanding educational opportunities for talented young Africans from diverse backgrounds.
How to Apply
Applications are submitted through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Online Application Portal.
Before applying, prospective applicants should ensure they:
- Meet the eligibility requirements.
- Have secured admission or are applying as newly admitted students to eligible University of Rwanda programmes.
- Prepare all required supporting documents.
- Demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and community service.
Applicants are encouraged to monitor the programme’s official announcements for application deadlines and detailed admission guidance.
Final Thoughts
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda 2027 offers far more than a fully funded scholarship. It provides talented African students with access to quality education, leadership development, mentorship, career preparation, and a lifelong network of changemakers committed to transforming Africa.
For academically gifted students facing financial or social barriers, this programme presents an exceptional opportunity to pursue higher education while developing the knowledge, skills, and leadership needed to create lasting impact in their communities and beyond.
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