2027 University of Rwanda Mastercard Scholarship For Africans | Fully Funded

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at University of Rwanda 2026/2027 Overview

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda (MCF-SP@UR) is a 10-year initiative designed to provide higher education access to academically talented African youth facing economic hardship, displacement, or disability. Targeted at prospective Master’s students for the 2026 intake, the program aims to develop ethical, transformative leaders committed to giving back to their home communities.

Eligibility Criteria

• Citizenship & Status: Rwandan citizens, citizens of African countries, or officially certified refugees (registered by UNHCR, MINEMA, or a recognized agency).
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• Admission Status: Must have applied for admission to a 2-year Master’s program at the University of Rwanda for the September 2026 intake.
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• Academic Background: Must hold a completed Bachelor’s degree in a discipline directly relevant to the chosen Master's program.
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• Age Limits: Must be 40 years of age or younger for male applicants, and 45 years or younger for female applicants at the time of application.
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• Inclusivity & STEM Priority: 80% of all awards are allocated to STEM fields, and 70% of total scholarships are reserved for female applicants.
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• Socioeconomic Criteria: Demonstrated financial need, displacement background, or disability, combined with a proven record of leadership, community engagement, and commitment to the "Go-Back / Give-Back" model.
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• Exclusions: Must not be currently enrolled in any other higher education institution.
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Scholarship Benefits & Award Package

CategoryValue & Financial SupportAcademic Coverage100% full tuition coverage, provision of a laptop, and learning materialsLiving & Travel AllowanceFull-year monthly stipend plus an annual return travel ticket allowanceSupport ServicesComprehensive psychosocial support, academic mentorship, and tutoringCareer DevelopmentIndustry mentorship, career guidance, enterprise development, and internshipsLeadership OpportunitiesLeadership congresses, community service initiatives, and global alumni networking

Required Documentation

• Completed Online Application Form
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• Digital passport-style photograph (white background)
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• Scanned National ID (showing date of birth) or valid Passport (for international applicants)
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• Official Refugee ID / Certification (for refugee candidates)
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• Official Disability Certificate (for candidates applying under the disability category)
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• Leadership and community engagement certificates or letters of proof
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How to Apply

1. Apply for admission to an eligible 2-year Master’s degree program at the University of Rwanda for the September 2026 intake.
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3. Access the official UR Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application portal.
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5. Register an account using a valid email address to initiate the scholarship application.
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7. Complete the online application fields and upload all required identity, academic, and supporting documents.
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9. Review your entries and submit the application before the specified deadline, tracking your application status directly via your user dashboard.