Transformational Opportunity: University Of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2025/2026 (Fully Funded For Young Africans) -

About the University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2025/2026

Are you a passionate, driven young African with big dreams but limited financial means? The University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2025/2026 offers a life-changing, fully funded opportunity to earn a degree while being empowered to lead change in your community. This scholarship targets high-achieving young Africans, especially women in STEM, youth with disabilities, refugees, and displaced individuals who are committed to making a difference.

The University of Rwanda, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, launched this visionary 10-year initiative in 2021. The goal is to support 1,400 academically talented but economically disadvantaged youth from across Africa through fully funded undergraduate education. The program does more than provide funding—it fosters leadership, community impact, and professional development. Scholars will be part of a dynamic and inclusive academic environment across the University of Rwanda’s seven colleges and five campuses.

This program is designed to build the next generation of African leaders by focusing on holistic support, mentorship, and pathways to dignified work, especially for underrepresented groups.

Eligible Fields

Scholars will pursue their undergraduate education at the University of Rwanda in the following colleges:

College of Science and Technology
College of Medicine and Health Sciences
College of Agriculture, Forestry and Food Sciences
College of Business and Economics
College of Education
College of Arts and Social Sciences
College of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences

These colleges operate across five campuses: Nyarugenge, Huye, Rukara, Busogo, and Nyagatare.

Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the 2025/2026 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda, applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be a citizen of Rwanda (to benefit from the national quota) or any other African country, or be a refugee/displaced youth living in Africa.
Be academically qualified but economically disadvantaged, with limited access to higher education.
Be 28 years old or younger at the time of application. Applicants with special circumstances (e.g., refugees, single mothers, child-headed families) may apply if under 30.
Have applied to an eligible undergraduate program at the University of Rwanda and obtained a UR Reference Number.
Demonstrate leadership potential and a history of community service or transformation initiatives.
Provide official documentation proving refugee or disability status, where applicable (from UNHCR, NCPD, or other recognized bodies).

Selection Criteria

Applicants will be selected based on a combination of the following:

Academic merit and potential
Evidence of financial need
Commitment to leadership and community transformation
Strength of supporting documents
Priority will be given to female applicants, especially in STEM fields, and to youth with disabilities, refugees, or displaced individuals

The selection process is competitive, and only complete applications with proper documentation will be considered.

Eligible Countries

This program is open to:

Citizens of Rwanda
Citizens of any African country
Recognized refugees or displaced youth residing in Africa

Documents Required

Applicants must upload all required documents in PDF format (less than 250 KB each) and properly name them using the applicant’s full name and UR reference number. Required documents include:

A copy of your national ID or passport
Academic transcripts and certificates
Proof of application to the University of Rwanda (UR Reference Number)
Letters of recommendation (if required)
Proof of disability or refugee status (where applicable)
Evidence of leadership and community engagement (optional but encouraged)

Benefits of the University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2025/2026

This is not just a scholarship—it’s a full empowerment package that includes:

Full tuition fees paid in full
On-campus accommodation
Laptop and learning materials
Monthly stipend throughout the academic year
Annual return travel ticket allowance
Psycho-social support services
Academic mentorship and tutoring
Career development programs, including industrial mentorship, entrepreneurship training, and career guidance
Internship opportunities with industry partners
Leadership training, congress participation, and networking
Participation in community service initiatives through “Go-Back Give-Back” projects
Inclusion into a prestigious network of Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni and global networks

How to Apply

Step 1: Apply to the University of Rwanda

Visit the University of Rwanda admissions portal
Choose one of the eligible programs listed
Obtain a UR Reference Number after completing your application

Step 2: Complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Application

Visit the official scholarship porta
Fill out the general online application form
Refugee applicants should use the specific refugee form available in the portal
Upload all required documents in PDF format (ensure they are properly named and under 250 KB)
Ensure the application form is fully completed before clicking Submit

Important:

Applications can be completed in multiple sessions, but you must finalize and submit before the deadline.
Once submitted, the form cannot be edited again.
Double-check all entries and uploads before final submission.

Final Thoughts

This is more than a scholarship—it’s a platform for transformation. The University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2025/2026 is a golden opportunity to break barriers, access world-class education, and gain tools that will help you lead change across Africa. Whether you are a young woman in STEM, a refugee striving for hope, or a student with big dreams but little means—this program was created for you.

If you meet the criteria and are ready to take the leap, don’t let this chance pass you by. Apply now and unlock a future of dignity, impact, and leadership.

Application Deadline: August 22, 2025