Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Makerere University: Undergraduate Admissions for 2025/2026 Now Open
Makerere University has officially announced the opening of applications for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for the 2025/2026 academic session. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to advancing inclusive higher education across the continent. The program offers comprehensive undergraduate scholarships to academically talented young individuals from Sub-Saharan Africa who face significant financial challenges.
Over 10 years, the Mastercard Foundation will provide scholarships for both undergraduate and graduate education at Makerere University’s main campus. However, the current intake is focused on undergraduate degree programs for the 2025/2026 academic year.
The program is designed to equip scholars with not only academic support but also tools and resources that empower them to contribute effectively to national and regional development efforts.
What the Scholarship Covers
Successful applicants admitted into the program will receive full financial and welfare support throughout their studies. The support package includes:
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Full payment of tuition and functional fees
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Provision of laptops, books, and other academic materials
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Accommodation, meals, and beddings
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Comprehensive medical insurance
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Monthly stipend
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Transport assistance to and from home during breaks
This holistic approach aims to eliminate all barriers to education while fostering leadership, entrepreneurship, and community engagement among the scholars.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet both general and specific criteria to qualify for this scholarship. The program is open to a wide range of young people, including:
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Ugandan nationals
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Refugees
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Internally displaced persons
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Persons with disabilities
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International students from Sub-Saharan Africa
In addition, applicants must fulfill the following academic and personal requirements:
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Must have applied for admission to a Makerere University undergraduate program under the private sponsorship scheme for the academic year 2025/2026.
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Must meet one of these academic conditions:
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Completion of Advanced Secondary Education (or equivalent) in any African country
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Possession of a second class/credit diploma from a recognized institution
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Successful completion of the Makerere University Mature Age Entry exams
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Must not hold any other scholarship, including from the Government of Uganda.
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Must not have previously completed a bachelor’s degree.
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Must be able to demonstrate financial hardship.
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Should have shown leadership potential or a history of community service.
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Age requirement:
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General applicants must be 28 years old or younger by the application deadline.
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Refugees and applicants with disabilities must be 32 years old or younger.
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Application Process and Deadline
All applications must be submitted online by Friday, June 6, 2025, no later than 11:59 PM East Africa Time (EAT).
How to Apply:
Interested candidates can access the application portal and submit their documents through the official Makerere University Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program website.
APPLY NOW
For further details and frequently asked questions, please visit the official program page: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program – Makerere University
