Makerere University Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2024
Makerere University, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, is proud to announce the Second Cohort of scholarships under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. This initiative, which runs through 2034, is designed to provide financially disadvantaged yet academically talented young Africans with the opportunity to pursue higher education. The program aims to support 1,000 students, fostering a new generation of transformative leaders across Africa.
Scholarship Overview
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University provides comprehensive support for Undergraduate (Bachelor’s degree) and Master’s level students. This fully funded scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, meals, learning materials, medical insurance, and a living stipend. Additionally, scholars benefit from leadership training, career development, and mentorship opportunities.
For the academic year 2025/2026, Makerere University is offering 190 undergraduate and 11 master’s scholarships under this prestigious program.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for this scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a Ugandan national, refugee, student with disabilities, internally displaced person, or international student from Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Have applied for admission to Makerere University’s main campus for the 2025/2026 academic year.
- Have completed undergraduate studies in an African country (for master’s applicants).
- Demonstrate financial hardship and an inability to afford university education.
- Not be a recipient of any other scholarship.
- Not be currently enrolled in or have completed a master’s degree.
- Show leadership potential and commitment to community service.
- Be 35 years or younger at the time of application (for refugees and students with disabilities, the age limit is 40 years).
- Refugee applicants must possess a valid Refugee Identity Card or Family Attestation.
Prioritized Degree Programs
Applicants must apply for degree programs that are aligned with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program’s areas of focus. A full list of eligible programs can be accessed in the application form.
Application Process
Interested candidates must apply through the official Online Application Portal: https://apply.mastercardfoundation.mak.ac.ug/.
Important Application Guidelines:
- The deadline for submission is Friday, 6th June 2025, at 11:59 PM EAT.
- Incomplete applications will be automatically disqualified.
- All applicants must first apply for admission to Makerere University.
- At least 70% of scholarships will be awarded to young women, encouraging female participation.
- 25% of scholarships will be allocated to refugees and internally displaced persons.
- 10% of scholarships will be awarded to students with disabilities.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Selection Process & Merit-Based Admission
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University follows a rigorous selection process, emphasizing merit and integrity. Applicants found engaging in fraud, impersonation, or providing false information will be disqualified and may face legal consequences.
Beware of Fraudulent Activities
The scholarship application is completely free of charge. Applicants are strongly advised to avoid individuals or entities requesting payment for securing a scholarship. Any fraudulent activity should be reported to the university administration.
Final Notification & Next Steps
Successful candidates will receive notifications at every stage of the selection process. If an applicant does not receive communication by August 2025, they should consider their application unsuccessful. Please note that submitting an application does not guarantee selection for the scholarship.
For further inquiries, please contact:
📞 +256 700-716-128
Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to transform your future with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University!
