The Makerere University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027 is a prestigious opportunity for young Africans to pursue undergraduate and master’s studies in Uganda, with a deadline of June 05, 2026. This fully funded scholarship program aims to support talented individuals from Sub-Saharan Africa who face social and economic barriers to accessing higher education. By applying for this program, students can gain access to quality education and transition into dignified and fulfilling work, making it an opportunity not to be missed.
About the Opportunity
The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University is a groundbreaking initiative that seeks to deepen inclusive university education and support 1,000 young people from Africa to access quality education. The program is designed to address the challenges faced by young Africans in accessing higher education, including social and economic barriers, and to provide them with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their chosen careers. By providing scholarships to academically talented young men and women, the program aims to promote social and economic transformation in Africa, and to contribute to the development of the continent’s human capital.
Makerere University, one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Africa, is well-placed to host this program, with a strong track record of academic excellence and a commitment to social responsibility. The university’s main campus, located in Kampala, Uganda, provides a vibrant and diverse learning environment, with state-of-the-art facilities and a renowned faculty. The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program is a key component of the university’s strategy to promote inclusive education and to support the development of the next generation of African leaders.
The program’s focus on supporting young people from Sub-Saharan Africa whose access to higher education is constrained by social and economic barriers is particularly significant, as it recognizes the importance of education in promoting social mobility and economic development. By providing scholarships to talented individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, the program aims to level the playing field and to provide opportunities for young people who might otherwise be excluded from higher education. This approach is closely aligned with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which emphasize the importance of education in promoting sustainable development and reducing poverty.
Who Can Apply
The Makerere University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027 is open to a wide range of applicants, including refugees, internally displaced persons, young persons with disabilities, international students, and young people from underrepresented ethnic groups in Uganda.
- Refugee or Internally Displaced Person (IDP): Applicants who are refugees or internally displaced persons are eligible to apply, provided they meet the program’s academic requirements and can demonstrate their refugee or IDP status.
- Young persons with disabilities: The program welcomes applications from young persons with disabilities, and provides support and accommodations to ensure that they can participate fully in the program.
- International students: International students from Sub-Saharan Africa are eligible to apply, provided they meet the program’s academic requirements and can demonstrate their commitment to returning to their home country after completing their studies.
- Young people living in a refugee host community: Applicants who are living in a refugee host community are eligible to apply, provided they meet the program’s academic requirements and can demonstrate their commitment to supporting their community.
- Young people from underrepresented ethnic groups in Uganda: The program welcomes applications from young people from underrepresented ethnic groups in Uganda, and provides support and accommodations to ensure that they can participate fully in the program.
- Other Ugandan youth: The program is also open to other Ugandan youth who meet the academic requirements and can demonstrate their commitment to supporting their community.
What You Will Gain
By applying for the Makerere University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027, successful applicants will gain access to a wide range of benefits, including full tuition fees, a monthly stipend, and support for research and community engagement activities.
- Full tuition fees: The program covers full tuition fees for the duration of the scholarship, allowing students to focus on their studies without worrying about the financial burden of tuition fees.
- Monthly stipend: The program provides a monthly stipend to support students’ living expenses, including accommodation, food, and other necessities.
- Support for research and community engagement activities: The program provides support for research and community engagement activities, allowing students to develop their skills and knowledge in a practical and applied context.
- Access to a vibrant and diverse learning environment: The program provides access to a vibrant and diverse learning environment, with state-of-the-art facilities and a renowned faculty.
- Opportunities for networking and mentorship: The program provides opportunities for networking and mentorship, allowing students to connect with other scholars and professionals in their field.
Application Deadline
Do not miss this opportunity. Deadline: June 05, 2026. Start your application early to ensure that you have enough time to complete all the required steps and submit your application before the deadline.
How to Apply for Makerere University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027 for Undergraduate and Master’s Study in Uganda (Fully Funded)
To apply for the Makerere University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027, applicants should first review the eligibility criteria and ensure that they meet the requirements. They should then proceed to the application portal, where they will be required to create an account and complete an online application form. The application form will require applicants to provide personal and academic information, as well as to upload supporting documents, such as transcripts and letters of recommendation.
Apply directly here: Click here to apply
Final Thoughts
The Makerere University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027 is a life-changing opportunity for young Africans to pursue their academic and professional goals. By applying for this program, students can gain access to quality education, develop their skills and knowledge, and contribute to the development of their communities. We encourage all eligible applicants to take advantage of this opportunity and apply before the deadline of June 05, 2026. Apply now and take the first step towards achieving your dreams.

