Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda (UR) is a fully funded scholarship that supports academically talented young Africans who face financial or social barriers to higher education. The program emphasizes leadership, community service, and preparing graduates for meaningful careers that contribute to Africa's development. It is a 10-year partnership (2021–2031) between the University of Rwanda and the Mastercard Foundation. (Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program)
Scholarship Overview
Host University: University of Rwanda
Scholarship Provider: Mastercard Foundation
Host Country: Rwanda
Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
Study Levels:
Bachelor's Degree
Master's Degree (limited number of awards)
Eligible Applicants: Citizens of Rwanda and other African countries. (Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program)
Scholarship Benefits
Successful scholars receive comprehensive support, including:
Full tuition fees
Registration fees
On-campus accommodation
Monthly living support
Laptop
Books and learning materials
Medical and psychosocial support
Leadership development
Career development and employability training
Internship opportunities
Mentorship and coaching
Return travel support where applicable
Access to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars alumni network. (Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program)
Who Can Apply?
Applicants should generally:
Be a citizen of an African country.
Meet the admission requirements of the University of Rwanda.
Be academically talented.
Demonstrate financial or social disadvantage.
Show leadership potential.
Have a record of community service or volunteer work.
Be committed to giving back to their communities after graduation. (Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program)
Priority Groups
The program gives particular consideration to:
Young women (especially in STEM)
Refugees and displaced youth
Persons with disabilities
Students from disadvantaged backgrounds. (Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program)
Eligible Academic Programs
Most scholarships support:
Science
Technology
Engineering
Mathematics (STEM)
Education
Agriculture
Health Sciences
Business
Social Sciences
Selected master's programmes. About 80% of scholars are enrolled in STEM fields, while a smaller proportion pursue master's degrees. (Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program)
Required Documents
Applicants are typically asked to prepare:
Completed scholarship application form
University admission details (where required)
Academic transcripts and certificates
National ID or passport
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Personal statement or motivation statement
Leadership and community service evidence
Recommendation letters (if requested)
Refugee or disability documentation (where applicable). (Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program)
Step-by-Step Application Process
Confirm that you meet the University of Rwanda admission requirements.
Apply for admission to an eligible programme if required for the intake.
Watch for the official scholarship call.
Complete the online scholarship application.
Upload all required documents.
Submit the application before the deadline.
Shortlisted applicants may be invited for interviews or additional assessment.
Successful applicants receive admission and scholarship confirmation. (Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program)
Selection Criteria
Applicants are assessed on:
Academic excellence
Leadership potential
Financial need
Community engagement
Integrity
Commitment to Africa's development
Career goals aligned with social impact. (Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program)
Tips for a Competitive Application
Maintain strong academic results.
Demonstrate measurable leadership achievements.
Highlight volunteer and community service.
Write a clear and authentic personal statement.
Explain how your education will contribute to solving challenges in your community.
Submit a complete application before the deadline.
Official Application Website
You can find application announcements, eligibility details, and the application portal on:
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Rwanda
Why This Scholarship Is Competitive
The University of Rwanda plans to support 1,200 scholars between 2021 and 2031, with approximately:
70% women,
25% refugees or displaced youth,
10% persons with disabilities,
15% international scholars,
while prioritizing leadership and social impact alongside academic merit. (Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program)
CONTACT MADAME RITHA ACADEMIC AT WHATSAPP +255718991625.
FOR ALL YOUR APPLICATION NEEDS.