Study in Rwanda | UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026/2027
For many young Africans, the dream of attending a top global university and driving real progress in healthcare often feels distant. Financial limits, social challenges, and limited academic pathways can block even the most talented students. However, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for the 2026 to 2027 academic year at the University of Global Health Equity opens a new door. It transforms access and gives ambitious African leaders a chance to rise.
This fully funded opportunity welcomes applications from students across the continent who want to shape the future of healthcare and deliver meaningful impact in their communities.
A Scholarship Designed for Equity and Leadership
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is known worldwide for supporting exceptional young people with strong leadership potential, academic promise, and a commitment to service. At the University of Global Health Equity, the program deepens this mission by focusing on groups that often face the greatest barriers to higher education. The program strongly supports:
- Young women
- Refugees and displaced youth
- Persons with disabilities
- Students who experience economic or social hardship
This focus ensures that the scholarship empowers individuals who want to reduce health gaps and strengthen health systems across Africa.
A Fully Funded Study Experience
The scholarship covers every major academic and living cost, allowing students to concentrate fully on their education. Selected scholars receive:
- Full tuition support
- Round-trip flights for international students
- Medical insurance
- A monthly living allowance
- A laptop for academic work
- On-campus accommodation during in-person learning
- Leadership and entrepreneurship training
- Dedicated mentorship
- Fellowship and career development opportunities
- Pre-arrival guidance and onboarding support
- Academic and personal support throughout the entire program
This comprehensive support removes financial stress and gives students the freedom to grow into confident leaders.
The Master of Science in Global Health Delivery
The Master of Science in Global Health Delivery is an eighteen-month program that trains students to solve real challenges in healthcare delivery. The program combines online learning and intensive in-person training in Rwanda.
- First Semester: Online learning from August to December 2026
- Second and Third Semesters: In-person training from January to December 2027
Students choose from four specializations:
- One Health
- Global Surgery
- Health Management
- Community and Social Medicine
The curriculum promotes practical learning, community collaboration, mentorship, and real field experience.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be thirty-five years or younger at the time of applying, with flexibility for applicants with disabilities
- Be citizens, residents, or refugees in any African country
- Hold a bachelor’s degree in any academic field
- Show dedication to improving health outcomes
- Commit to full-time study for eighteen months
Applicants with a previous master’s degree do not qualify.
How to Apply
Application Timeline
Applications open on 14 November 2025 and close on 18 January 2026 at five in the evening, Central Africa Time. Shortlisted candidates will complete an admissions exam in February, followed by interviews in March, and receive final results in May 2026.
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