UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 offers an incredible opportunity for talented African students to pursue higher education at the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) in Rwanda. This fully funded scholarship covers all essential expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, travel costs, living stipends, and study materials such as a laptop. Designed for academically gifted individuals with a passion for leadership and social change, the program empowers young Africans to make a lasting impact in their communities and across the continent.
Through the UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026, selected scholars can enroll in prestigious Master’s programs such as Global Health Delivery (MGHD) and Health Professions Education (MHPE). This transformative initiative especially supports students from disadvantaged backgrounds—young women, refugees, displaced individuals, and persons with disabilities—providing them with the tools, mentorship, and resources to become future leaders in healthcare and equity. In this post, you’ll find all the essential details about eligibility criteria, benefits, and the step-by-step application process for this life-changing scholarship opportunity.
Benefits
Mastercard Scholarships cover;
- Tuition fees
- Living Stipends
- Accommodation
- Laptop
- Study Materials
- Postgraduation Mentorship
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UGHE, you must:
- Be Africans, young women, persons with disabilities, and young people who have been forcibly displaced or have refugee status within the African continent.
- Have matriculated and successfully graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in a health-related field.
- Be 35 or under the year at the time of application (exceptions apply to applicants with disabilities).
- Be committed to developing the skills and mindsets associated with transformative leadership.
- Be extremely talented individuals who might have faced barriers to quality higher education.
- Have demonstrated commitment to community service and health equity through active involvement beyond the classroom.
How to Apply?
To apply for the UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 and pursue the MSc in Health Professions Education (HPE) program at the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE), follow the steps below:
- Visit the official UGHE application portal and select the Master of Science in Health Professions Education (MSc in HPE) program.
- Review the eligibility criteria and scholarship requirements before beginning your application.
- Gather all necessary documents, including academic transcripts, an updated CV, a personal statement, and reference letters.
- Complete the online application form accurately and provide all required information.
- Specify that you are applying for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program when filling out the form.
- Double-check your details and submit your completed application before the deadline.
- Wait for further communication from UGHE if you are shortlisted for an interview or additional review.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
This scholarship covers the full Master of Science in Health Professions Education at UGHE for eligible African citizens, residents or refugees under 35 with a health-related bachelor’s degree. It’s fully funded, runs 18 months blended online and in-person, applications close 30 Nov 2025.
Who is eligible for the UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026?
Applicants must be citizens, residents or refugees of an African country, be under 35 years old at application time (exceptions for disability), hold a Bachelor’s degree in a health-related field and not already hold a Master’s degree.
What study level does this scholarship cover?
The scholarship supports the full Master of Science in Health Professions Education (MSc-HPE) programme delivered by UGHE, an 18-month direct entry track for new MSc applicants under the Scholars Programme.
What is the study format for the MSc HPE under UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026?hip?
The MSc HPE runs over 18 months via a blended delivery model: online learning modules combined with intensive in-person sessions at UGHE’s Kigali/Butaro campus, allowing professionals to engage while continuing some work responsibilities.
What are the key eligibility criteria for the scholarship?
Applicants must: be ≤ 35 years old (exceptions for disability), be African citizens/residents or refugees, possess a health-related Bachelor’s degree, ideally have teaching or educational leadership experience, and be endorsed by their institution if employed.
Can someone with a Master’s degree apply for UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026?
No. Applicants who already hold a Master’s degree are not eligible for this particular scholarship track at UGHE, as the funding is designed for direct-entry Master’s students in the health professions education field.
What is the application deadline for UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026?
The application deadline is 30 November 2025 at 11:59 PM CAT. The online application portal opens on 22 October 2025, and shortlisted candidates will move on to interview or further assessments in December 2025.
What documents do I need to apply for UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026?
Applicants must submit a completed online form, national ID/passport or refugee ID, official academic transcripts and Bachelor’s degree certificate, and if employed, an endorsed institutional recommendation confirming dedicated time for the programme.
Does the scholarship favour certain groups under UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026?
Yes. The programme especially encourages applications from young women, refugees and displaced persons, and persons with disabilities – those facing the highest social or economic barriers in accessing higher education in Africa.
What is expected of scholars selected under UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026?
Selected scholars must commit to the full 18-month MSc HPE programme – no exit at certificate or diploma. They will engage in leadership, curriculum innovation and research activities, meeting UGHE academic standards and participating in the transition and mentorship components.
Discover more from Scholarship Union
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.