The University of Rwanda, in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation, invites applications for a fully funded postgraduate scholarship covering tuition fees, a laptop, learning materials, an annual return ticket allowance, and a monthly stipend for a full year.
Application Deadline:
- 22 August 2026, 11:59 PM (Central Africa Time)
Tell Me About The Award:
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda (MCF‑SP@UR) is a 10‑year initiative designed to provide access to higher education for economically disadvantaged young Africans, particularly those from conflict/post‑conflict areas. The programme emphasises women in STEM, refugees, displaced youth, and persons with disabilities, while building transformative leadership capacity.
Which Fields are Eligible?
Applicants must apply for Master’s programmes of two years’ duration at the University of Rwanda.
- 80% of scholarships are reserved for STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics).
- Other fields may be considered, but priority is given to STEM.
Type:
- Postgraduate Scholarship | Master’s | Fully Funded | Leadership Development
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be Rwandan or African citizens (refugees must be certified by UNHCR, MINEMA, or another legal agency).
- Have completed a Bachelor’s degree in a field relevant to the UR Master’s programme.
- Be under 40 years (male) or under 45 years (female) at the time of application.
- Demonstrate economic disadvantage, disability, or refugee status.
- Show leadership potential and community engagement.
- Not be currently enrolled in any other tertiary institution.
- Not be continuing students (only first‑time enrollees are eligible).
How are Applicants Selected?
- Based on academic merit, leadership record, and socio‑economic need.
- Priority distribution:
- 70% female candidates
- 25% certified refugees
- 10% of persons with disabilities
- Selection involves:
- Pre‑screening.
- Oral interviews by independent panels.
- Home validation visits.
- Final decisions made by the Scholars Recruitment Committee (SRC).
Which Countries are Eligible?
- All African countries, with priority for Rwandans and disadvantaged groups.
Where will the Award be Taken?
- University of Rwanda, Rwanda.
How Many Awards?
- 30 scholarships available for the 3rd Cohort (2026/2027).
What is the Benefit of the Award?
The scholarship package includes:
- Full tuition fees.
- Laptop and learning materials.
- Annual return ticket allowance.
- Monthly stipend for living expenses.
- Psychosocial support services.
- Internships and industry mentorship.
- Career development services (guidance, enterprise development).
- Academic mentorship and tutoring.
- Leadership congresses, community service, and “Go‑Back Give‑Back” initiatives.
- Membership in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Network.
How Long Will the Award Last?
- Duration of the two‑year Master’s programme.
- Renewable annually based on satisfactory academic performance.
How to Apply:
- Apply for admission to a UR Master’s programme (September 2026 intake).
- Complete the online scholarship application form: MCF Scholars Program Application Portal.
- Upload required documents (PDF format, <250kb each):
- Academic transcripts.
- Bachelor’s degree certificate.
- Proof of refugee/disability status (if applicable).
- Personal statement.
- CV.
- Recommendation letters.
- Submit the completed application before 22 August 2026.
📧Support contacts:
- Mr Emmanuel Kamanzi – [email protected] | Tel: +250 788736530
- Mr Jean Baptiste Mugiraneza – [email protected] | Tel: +250 722016900
- Dr Odette Uwizeye – [email protected] | Tel: +250 78830439
- Mr Oscar Muvandimwe – [email protected] | Tel: +250 788488272
Visit the Application Webpage for Details
