Hey future healthcare leader! Ready to make a massive impact on health education across Africa? The University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for 2026/2027 is here, and it’s your chance to get fully funded for a Master of Science in Health Professions Education (MSc in HPE)! If you’re an African healthcare professional dreaming of shaping the next generation of medical experts, keep reading – this bursary is tailor-made for you!
This incredible bursary program, generously funded by the Mastercard Foundation, is designed to prepare top-notch health educators and leaders. Imagine yourself designing, delivering, and evaluating innovative, high-quality, and equitable health professions programs across the continent. This MSc in HPE will equip you with the skills to confidently lead educational programs, innovate in healthcare education, and truly make a difference in healthcare outcomes throughout Africa.
Who Can Apply?
- You need to be 35 years old or under at the time of application (exceptions apply for applicants with disabilities).
- You must be a resident, citizen, or hold refugee status in an African country.
- You should have successfully completed a Bachelor’s degree in a health-related field. Make sure to have your official academic transcripts and degree certificate ready!
- Professional experience in teaching, supervision, or educational leadership within health-related higher education institutions is a bonus, especially for early-career applicants showing clear teaching potential.
- If you’re currently employed, you’ll need a signed and stamped recommendation letter from your institution, confirming their support and dedicated time for you to attend online and in-person sessions.
- Sorry, if you already hold a master’s degree, you’re not eligible for this specific Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
What Does It Cover?
This is a fully funded opportunity, meaning you can focus on your studies without financial stress! Here’s what the scholarship provides:
- Full tuition fees – no need to worry about the cost of your education!
- Return tickets and health insurance for any in-person sessions held in beautiful Rwanda.
- A generous monthly stipend to help with living expenses.
- A brand new laptop to support your studies.
- Fantastic transitions support, including mentorship, entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation training.
- Exciting fellowship opportunities to further your career.
- Pre-arrival support and a warm, official onboarding program.
- Accommodation and meals are covered for the in-person program components.
Just a heads-up: Once you’re accepted, you’ll need to sign a scholarship agreement, meet the required academic standards to keep your scholarship, and comply with all of UGHE’s rules and regulations.
How to Apply?
Ready to kickstart your journey? Here’s how you can apply:
- Head over to the official online application portal and fill out the form carefully. This includes both your personal, academic, and demographic information, as well as the specific details required for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
- Don’t forget to upload all your supporting documents: your Passport, National ID or Refugee ID, academic transcript(s), degree certificate, and your employer recommendation letter (if applicable).
Remember, you should submit a single, complete application. Incomplete or multiple submissions won’t be considered, so double-check everything!
The application window is from 22 October 2025 to 30 November 2025. Admissions interviews are planned for December 2025, with final decisions expected in January 2026.
Ready to apply? Click here: UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Online Application
For more details and to explore the program further, visit the official webpage: UGHE Official Program Webpage
If this sounds like the perfect bursary to elevate your career and impact healthcare education in Africa, don’t wait — apply now! This is an incredible opportunity to get fully funded and make a real difference. Good luck, and remember to explore more amazing opportunities on Bursaries Room!
