The University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) and the Mastercard Foundation offer the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. This partnership aims to provide 500 young African scholars with a fully funded opportunity to pursue master’s degree programmes.
Application Deadline:
| Application Opens | 14 December 2026 |
| Application Closes | 31 January 2027 @ 5:00 PM CAT |
Tell Me About The Award:
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) is a 10-year partnership aimed at providing 500 young African scholars with fully funded opportunities to pursue Master’s degree programs—specifically in Global Health Delivery (MGHD) and Health Professions Education (MHPE). The program is designed for academically talented individuals committed to transformative change and equity, focusing heavily on young women, refugees, displaced youth, and persons with disabilities who face significant socio-economic barriers.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Global Health Delivery and Health Professions Education
Type:
Fully Funded Master’s Degree Scholarship
Who can Apply?
- Young Africans, with particular emphasis on young women, refugees, displaced young people, and persons with disabilities.
- Candidates aged 35 or under at the time of admission who have completed an undergraduate degree.
- Citizens, residents, or individuals with refugee status in an African country (those with dual citizenship, asylum seeker, refugee, or permanent resident status outside of Africa are ineligible).
- Academically talented individuals who secure admission into a UGHE Master’s program (MGHD or MHPE).
- Individuals who demonstrate leadership potential, a commitment to health equity, and have faced significant social, financial, personal, practical, or health-related barriers to higher education.
- Candidates who do not already hold a Master’s degree.
How are Applicants Selected?
Applicants are evaluated based on demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, a commitment to health equity and community service, and having faced significant educational barriers. Shortlisted candidates go through specific admissions exams and interviews depending on the program track.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
African countries (citizens, residents, or those with refugee status within the African continent)
Where will the Award be Taken?
University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) – Rwanda (with blended or in-person delivery models depending on the specific Master’s path)
How Many Awards?
Part of a 10-year initiative targeting a total of 500 scholars across the partnership.
What is the Benefit of the Award?
- Full-cost scholarship covering tuition fees, housing, and meals.
- Monthly living allowance / stipend.
- Logistics support, including an economy return flight and travel fees.
- Access to an Entrepreneurial Fund and study materials (e.g., laptop).
- Pre-arrival orientation program, leadership development, customized training, mentorship, career guidance, and internship placement support.
- Access to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni and UGHE Alumni Networks.
How Long Will the Award Last?
18 months (matching the duration of the Master’s programs)
How to Apply:
- Review the specific requirements and deadlines for your chosen program (MGHD or MHPE).
- Apply directly for admission to the respective Master’s program at UGHE, which incorporates the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application form.
- Submit all required personal, academic, and demographic details along with supporting documentation before the respective deadline.
Visit the Application Webpage for Details
