Makerere University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027: Apply Now

Applications are now open for the Makerere University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027. This fully funded chance offers undergraduate and master’s study in Uganda. The program helps 1,000 young people from Africa. Many face social and economic barriers to higher education. It gives them access to quality university training and paths to good jobs.

This article covers the program overview, eligibility rules, benefits, how to apply, and key dates. You will find clear steps to check if you qualify and take action.

What is the Makerere University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program?

The Makerere University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program offers 13 master’s scholarships for the 2026/2027 academic year. These go to students at the university’s main campus. It targets smart young people from Sub-Saharan Africa. Many come from tough backgrounds like refugees or people with disabilities.

The program fights barriers to education. Here are its main goals in a quick list:

• Deepen inclusive university education for all.
• Support 1,000 young Africans with scholarships.
• Help scholars move into good jobs after studies.

Eligibility Criteria for the Program

You must meet strict rules to apply. The list below matches the official criteria. Check each one.

1. Belong to a key group: refugee or internally displaced person (IDP), young person with disabilities, international student, from a refugee host community, from an underrepresented ethnic group in Uganda, or other Ugandan youth.
2. Have applied for admission to Makerere University’s main campus for 2026/2027.
3. Completed undergraduate studies in an African country.
4. Face financial limits that block graduate school.
5. Hold no other scholarship.
6. Not pursuing or finished any master’s degree.
7. Showed leadership or community service.
8. Be 35 years or younger by the deadline.
9. For refugees, IDPs, or those with disabilities: under 40 years by deadline.
10. Refugee applicants need a valid Refugee ID card or Family Attestation.
11. Applied for degree programs on the program’s priority list.

Age Limits to Note: Most applicants must be 35 or younger. Refugees, IDPs, and those with disabilities can be under 40.

Scholarship Benefits

These scholarships are fully funded. They cover tuition and living costs. The program also aids job transitions. It builds skills for work after school.

Key benefits include:

• Full financial support for master’s studies.
• Mentorship from experts.
• Community networks for growth.
• Training for real-world jobs.

All focus on master’s at the main campus.

Application Process and Requirements

Start by applying to Makerere University main campus for 2026/2027. Then seek the scholarship. You must hit eligibility and pick priority programs.

Follow these steps:

1. Apply for university admission first.
2. Meet all eligibility rules.
3. Submit scholarship form via the official program page.
4. Choose a prioritized degree.

Key Dates and Deadlines

Mark your calendar. Deadlines matter.

Deadline: 5th June 2026, 11:59 p.m. EAT
For 2026/2027 academic year.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the Makerere University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program?

Young people from Sub-Saharan Africa facing barriers like refugees, disabilities, or financial limits, aged 35 or under (40 for some groups), with a bachelor’s from Africa and no prior master’s.

What benefits does the scholarship offer?

It covers full tuition and living costs, plus mentorship, community networks, and training for jobs after graduation.

How do I apply for the program?

First apply for admission to Makerere’s main campus, meet eligibility, then submit the scholarship form on the official page and choose a priority degree.

What is the application deadline?

The deadline is June 5, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EAT for the 2026/2027 academic year.