Inclusive Excellence: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University (2026/2027)
Makerere University, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, is pleased to announce a significant scholarship intake for the 2026/2027 academic year. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a strategic initiative designed to support 1,000 young Africans in transitioning into dignified work by removing the social and economic barriers to high-quality university education.
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For the upcoming academic cycle, the program is offering 258 new scholarships specifically for students joining the Makerere University Main Campus.
Scholarship Allocation: By the Numbers
The program is deeply committed to diversity and inclusion, with specific quotas designed to empower underrepresented groups across Sub-Saharan Africa.
| Category | Number of Scholarships |
| Undergraduate Scholarships | 245 |
| Master’s Scholarships | 13 |
| Total 2026/2027 Intake | 258 |
Mandatory Inclusion Targets:
- 70% Women: A minimum of 180 Mastercard Foundation Scholars are reserved for young women to promote gender equity in higher education.
- 25% Refugees/IDPs: At least 64 scholarships will be awarded to refugees and internally displaced persons.
- 10% Persons with Disabilities: A minimum of 25 scholarships are dedicated to young people living with disabilities.
- Targeted Outreach: Specific priority is given to young people from underrepresented ethnic groups (minority tribes) in Uganda and international students from Sub-Saharan Africa.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a Mastercard Foundation Scholars at Makerere University, applicants must meet the following technical and socio-economic requirements:
- Academic Status: Must have applied for admission to a prioritized degree programme at Makerere University Main Campus for the 2026/2027 year.
- Educational History: Master’s applicants must have completed their undergraduate degree within an African country and must not already hold a Master’s degree.
- Age Limits: * Standard Applicants: 35 years or younger at the time of the deadline.
- Refugees/IDPs/Disabilities: 40 years or younger at the time of the deadline.
- Economic Background: Applicants must demonstrate significant financial constraints that limit access to higher education.
- Leadership: Must provide evidence of engagement in community service or leadership activities.
- Documentation: Refugee applicants must provide a valid Refugee Identity card or Family Attestation. IDPs require a resettlement letter from the Office of the Prime Minister.
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Application Procedure & Key Dates
The application process for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars is handled entirely online. There is no fee to apply for this scholarship.
- University Admission: Applicants must first apply for admission to Makerere University through the Academic Registrar’s office.
- Scholarship Portal: Access the Online Application Portal to complete the scholarship form. The use of a computer (rather than a mobile device) is strongly recommended for the best experience.
- Submission Deadline: Friday, 5th June 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EAT.
- Notification: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you have not heard from the program by the end of August 2026, consider your application unsuccessful.
Inquiries:
- Mobile: +256 700-716-128
- Email: info@mastercardfdn.mak.ac.ug
Important Fraud Alert
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University operates on merit and transparency. The application process is FREE. Any individual or group soliciting money with the promise of securing a scholarship is a fraudster and should be reported to the authorities. Falsification of documents or impersonation will lead to automatic disqualification and potential legal action.
Disclaimer: The Business Pulse shares verified opportunities from trusted sources. We are not a recruiting agency and do not request any payment for applications.
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