Mastercard Foundation Scholarships 2026/27 | Fully Funded | Makerere University

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University has officially opened applications for the 2026/2027 academic year. This transformative initiative is designed to support academically talented but economically disadvantaged young people from across Africa, empowering them to become the next generation of transformative leaders.

Scholarship Breakdown

For this intake, a total of 258 scholarships are available for students joining Makerere University’s main campus:

• Undergraduate Scholarships: 245 positions.

• Master’s Scholarships: 13 positions.

• Value: Fully Funded (Covers tuition, functional fees, accommodation, living stipend, and books).

Eligibility Criteria

The program is highly inclusive, with specific quotas to ensure representation of marginalized groups:

• Target Categories: Ugandan nationals, Refugees/IDPs, Students with Disabilities, and International Students (African).

• Gender Focus: 70% of scholarships are reserved for young women.

• Age Limits:

  • Undergraduate: 28 years or younger (32 for Refugees/Disabilities).

  • Master’s: 35 years or younger (40 for Refugees/Disabilities).

• Academic Requirement: Applicants must have already applied for admission to a prioritized degree program at Makerere University under the Private Sponsorship Scheme.

• Leadership: Must demonstrate a strong record of leadership and community service.

Prioritized Study Fields

The scholarship focuses on programs that drive development in Africa, including but not limited to:

• Agriculture & Agribusiness

• Engineering & Technology

• Health Sciences

• Natural Sciences & Environment

• Business & Economics

Important Dates & Application Process

• Scholarship Deadline: June 5, 2026 (11:59 PM EAT).

• Note: You must first apply for admission to Makerere University. The graduate admission deadline was recently extended to April 30, 2026.

Step-by-Step Application:

1. University Admission: Apply for your desired course at Makerere University via the AIMS Portal.

2. Scholarship Application: Once admitted (or during the admission window), complete the scholarship form at the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Portal.

3. Submission: Ensure all supporting documents (transcripts, refugee ID, or disability proof) are uploaded before the June deadline.

Sponsor: Mastercard Foundation / Makerere University

Location: Kampala, Uganda

Contact: +256 700-716-128 | [email protected]