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 program offers undergraduate and master’s study opportunities at Makerere University in Uganda. It supports 1,000 young people from Africa who face social and economic barriers to higher education. The program helps these talented individuals gain quality education and move into good jobs. This article covers the program overview, eligibility rules, deadline, and how to apply.

What is the Makerere University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program?

The Makerere University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program works to make university education more inclusive. It targets academically strong young people from Sub-Saharan Africa. These youth often struggle with social and economic issues that block their path to higher learning. The program guides them toward quality education and steady careers. For the 2026/2027 year, Makerere University offers 13 master’s scholarships on its main campus.

Here are the program’s main goals in a simple list:

• Deepen access to inclusive university education.
• Support 1,000 young Africans in reaching their potential.
• Help scholars transition to dignified and fulfilling work.

Scholarship Benefits

The scholarships are fully funded. They cover tuition fees and more to ease financial worries. Recipients gain access to top education at Makerere University. The program also prepares them for strong careers after graduation.

Key benefits include:

• Full financial support for studies.
• Entry to quality university programs.
• Training for real-world job success.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet strict rules to qualify. Here is the full list of 11 criteria:

1. Belong to a target category: Refugee or Internally Displaced Person (IDP), young persons with disabilities, international students, young people in refugee host communities, those from underrepresented ethnic groups in Uganda, or other Ugandan youth.
2. Applied for admission: You must have sent an application to Makerere University’s main campus for 2026/2027.
3. Undergraduate from Africa: Finish your bachelor’s degree in an African country.
4. Face financial limits: Show that money issues stop you from paying for graduate school.
5. No other scholarships: Do not hold any other award right now.
6. First master’s attempt: Not pursuing or finished any master’s degree before.
7. Leadership or service: Prove involvement in leadership roles or community help.
8. Age limit: Be 35 years old or younger by the deadline.
9. Special age for some: Refugees, IDPs, and those with disabilities can be under 40.
10. Refugee proof: Hold a valid Refugee Identity card or Family Attestation document.
11. Right programs: Apply to degree programs chosen by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

Application Deadline and Key Dates

Missing the deadline means no chance to apply.

Deadline: 5th June 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EAT.

This sets the start for the 2026/2027 academic year on the main campus.

How to Apply

Start by checking the official program webpage for all details. You need admission to Makerere’s main campus and programs on the priority list. Only first-time master’s seekers with no other aid can apply.

Follow these steps:

1. Apply for university admission first.
2. Review all eligibility rules.
3. Submit your scholarship form through the official link.

The Makerere University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027 offers a big chance for talented African youth. It provides fully funded support to beat education barriers. Key points include target groups like refugees and youth with disabilities, plus the June 5 deadline. Eligible readers should apply soon via the official link.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the deadline for the Makerere University MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027?

The deadline is June 5, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. EAT. Missing it means you cannot apply.

Who can apply for these scholarships?

Young Africans from target groups like refugees, people with disabilities, or those facing financial barriers, aged 35 or under (40 for some), with no prior master’s and leadership experience.

What benefits does the program provide?

It covers full tuition and financial support, plus access to quality education and job training for career success.

How do I apply for the scholarship?

First apply for admission to Makerere’s main campus, check eligibility, then submit the scholarship form via the official link on the program webpage.