University of Rwanda Mastercard Scholarship 2027: Opportunity Covers Tuition, Monthly Stipend, Laptop and Travel

University of Rwanda opens fully funded Mastercard Scholarship 2027

The University of Rwanda Mastercard Scholarship 2027 has officially opened applications for its third cohort, offering a fully funded master’s degree opportunity to talented African students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential and financial need.

Delivered through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, the initiative aims to expand access to quality higher education while nurturing a new generation of African leaders capable of driving social and economic transformation across the continent.

Successful applicants will receive comprehensive financial support, including full tuition fees, accommodation, a monthly living stipend, a laptop, learning materials and annual travel support. The scholarship also provides mentorship, internships, career development and leadership training.

Applications close on August 22, 2026.

What Is the University of Rwanda Mastercard Scholarship 2027?

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda is part of a 10-year partnership designed to increase access to postgraduate education for academically qualified but economically disadvantaged young Africans.

The scholarship particularly targets students from underserved communities, conflict-affected regions, refugee backgrounds and individuals living with disabilities.

Beyond funding education, the program seeks to produce ethical leaders committed to giving back to their communities after graduation through its “Go Back, Give Back” philosophy.

The scholarship is available for students enrolling in eligible two-year master’s degree programmes beginning in the September 2026 intake.

What Does the Fully Funded Scholarship Cover?

The University of Rwanda Mastercard Scholarship provides an extensive financial package that removes nearly all study-related expenses.

Successful scholars will receive:

Full tuition fees
Monthly living stipend
Accommodation support
Laptop computer
Learning materials
Annual return air ticket
Academic mentorship
Career guidance
Leadership development programmes
Industry internships
Professional networking opportunities
Psycho-social support services
Membership in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Network

The program is designed to support students academically, professionally and personally throughout their studies.

Who Can Apply for the Scholarship?

Applications are open to citizens of African countries, including refugees recognized by relevant authorities.

To qualify, applicants must:

Apply for admission into an eligible University of Rwanda master’s programme.
Hold a bachelor’s degree related to their chosen field.
Demonstrate financial or social disadvantage.
Show proven leadership experience and community involvement.
Be committed to community development after graduation.
Not already be enrolled at another tertiary institution.

Age requirements include:

Male applicants must be 40 years or younger.
Female applicants may be up to 45 years old.

The scholarship places a strong emphasis on gender equality, with 70% of awards reserved for female scholars.

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STEM Students Receive Priority

One of the defining features of the 2027 intake is its strong focus on Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).

According to the program guidelines:

80% of scholarship recipients will come from STEM disciplines.
Remaining opportunities will support students from other eligible academic fields.

This aligns with the Mastercard Foundation’s broader strategy of developing highly skilled professionals capable of accelerating innovation and sustainable development across Africa.

Documents Required for the Application

Applicants are expected to prepare several documents before submitting their application.

Required documents include:

Completed application form
Passport photograph
National identification card
Passport (for international applicants)
Refugee documentation (where applicable)
Disability certificate (if applicable)
Leadership certificates or evidence of community service

Preparing these documents early can help applicants complete their submissions before the deadline.

How to Apply for the University of Rwanda Mastercard Scholarship

Interested candidates should complete their application through the official University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholars portal.

The application process involves:

Creating an online account.
Completing the scholarship application.
Uploading all required documents.
Reviewing the application carefully.
Submitting before August 22, 2026.

Applicants can monitor the progress of their applications through their online dashboard after submission.

Why This Scholarship Matters for African Students

The University of Rwanda Mastercard Scholarship has become one of Africa’s most competitive postgraduate funding opportunities because it goes beyond paying tuition.

Recipients gain access to mentorship, leadership development, internship opportunities and an international network of Mastercard Foundation Scholars, helping graduates build careers capable of creating lasting impact across Africa.

With comprehensive financial support and a strong emphasis on leadership, innovation and community service, the scholarship continues to attract outstanding students seeking world-class postgraduate education without the burden of tuition or living expenses.

African graduates interested in pursuing a master’s degree should ensure they meet the eligibility criteria and submit their applications before the August 22, 2026 deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the University of Rwanda Mastercard Scholarship 2027?

The University of Rwanda Mastercard Scholarship 2027 is a fully funded master’s scholarship under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program that supports academically talented but financially disadvantaged African students.

Is the University of Rwanda Mastercard Scholarship fully funded?

Yes. The scholarship covers full tuition fees, accommodation, monthly living allowance, annual travel expenses, a laptop, learning materials, mentorship, internships and leadership development.

Who can apply for the University of Rwanda Mastercard Scholarship?

Applicants must be African citizens or eligible refugees who have applied for admission into an eligible University of Rwanda master’s programme and meet the scholarship’s academic and leadership requirements.

What is the deadline for the University of Rwanda Mastercard Scholarship 2027?

Applications close on August 22, 2026.

Does the scholarship require IELTS?

No. The scholarship announcement does not list IELTS as a mandatory requirement.

Can Nigerian students apply?

Yes. Nigerian citizens are eligible to apply, provided they satisfy all admission and scholarship requirements.

What expenses are covered by the scholarship?

The scholarship covers:

Full tuition
Accommodation
Monthly stipend
Laptop
Learning materials
Annual return ticket
Leadership training
Career support
Internships
Academic mentoring

Which students receive priority?

Priority is given to:

Female applicants
Students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds
Refugees
Persons living with disabilities
STEM students

Are STEM programmes prioritized?

Yes. Approximately 80% of scholarship awards are expected to go to students pursuing Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) programmes.

What documents are required?

Applicants generally need:

Application form
Passport photograph
National ID
Passport (international students)
Leadership certificates
Refugee or disability documentation where applicable

How do I apply for the scholarship?

Applicants must:

Apply for admission to an eligible master’s programme.
Create an account on the scholarship portal.
Complete the online application.
Upload required documents.
Submit before the deadline.

What makes the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program unique?

The program combines financial support with mentorship, leadership development, internships, networking opportunities and community service, preparing scholars to become transformational leaders across Africa.