University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 – Closing Date: 22 August 2025 Apply Now

Hey future leaders and changemakers! 🎓 Ready to kickstart your academic journey with a fully funded opportunity? Let’s talk about the incredible University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (which we’re calling the University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Bursary for short!). This is a massive chance for talented young Africans, including our awesome South African students, to get a top-notch university education.

This bursary isn’t just about covering costs; it’s about empowering the next generation to make a real impact. If you’re dreaming big and want to study at the University of Rwanda, keep reading!

The University of Rwanda, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, is running an epic 10-year Scholars Program (from 2021 all the way to 2031!) aiming to give 1,400 bright young Africans access to quality higher education. This isn’t just any bursary – it’s designed specifically for those with limited access to opportunities, with a special focus on females interested in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields, young people with disabilities, and even refugees or displaced youth. The goal? To help you gain the skills and knowledge for a dignified future, while also strengthening the university’s capacity!

You’ll be able to pursue undergraduate programs across various colleges at the University of Rwanda, including Science and Technology, Health Sciences, Agriculture, Business & Economics, Education, Arts & Social Sciences, and Veterinary Medicine. So, no matter your passion, there might be a spot for you!

Who Can Apply?

So, is this bursary for you? Here’s who the University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Bursary is looking for:

• You must be a citizen of an African country. If you’re from Rwanda, you’ll benefit from the national scholarship quota.
• Are you a refugee or displaced youth in Africa? Absolutely! You’re encouraged to apply.
• You need to be academically qualified but have limited access to educational opportunities. This bursary is all about bridging that gap!
• Your age matters: You shouldn’t be above 28 years old at the time of application. If you have certified proof of a protracted life condition (like being a refugee, a single mother, or from a child-headed family), this limit extends to 30 years.
• You must meet the admission criteria for your chosen eligible program at the University of Rwanda.
• Crucially, you need to have already generated a UR Reference number and submitted an application for admission to the University of Rwanda in one of their designated programs.
• Show your commitment to leadership and provide proof of community engagement or transformation initiatives. They want to see your passion for giving back!
• If you’re a refugee or have a disability, make sure you provide legal proof of your status (from UNHCR, NCPD, or another recognized organization).

What Does It Cover?

Get ready for some amazing benefits! This is a fully funded program that truly supports you:

• Full Financial Support: This means your full tuition fees are covered, you get fully paid on-campus accommodation, a brand-new laptop, learning materials, an annual return flight ticket allowance (yes, you read that right!), and a full-year monthly stipend to help with living costs. Talk about comprehensive!
• Psycho-social Support Services: Because your well-being matters.
• Internships: Get uniquely sourced internships with industry partners for real-world professional development.
• Academic Support: Benefit from academic mentorship, virtual learning, and tutoring to keep you on track.
• Career Development Services: This includes industrial mentorship, career guidance, professional development workshops, and even enterprise development to help you build your own ventures.
• Networking Opportunities: Regular group meetings with other scholars to boost your personal and professional growth, build societal relationships, and enhance your skills.
• Leadership and Community Engagement: Participate in leadership congresses, community services, and mentorship programs (their “Give-Back” initiatives).
• Global Community: You’ll join the prestigious Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni family, connecting you with a global network of changemakers!

How to Apply?

Ready to jump in? Here’s your step-by-step guide to applying for the University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Bursary:

1. Start Online: Fill out the general application form online. You can find it right here: Apply for Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
2. Read Carefully: Before you even start filling, make sure you read all instructions and understand the required information. The link to the empty form will show up after you open the application link.
3. Gather Documents: While you can fill the form in multiple sessions, it’s highly recommended to have all your supporting documents ready before you begin.
4. Submission is Key: Your application will only be considered once you’ve fully submitted it and completed all the steps.
5. Attach Documents Smartly: Make sure you name each document you attach with your names and your initial University of Rwanda (UR) reference number. All documents should be in PDF format and ideally under 250 KB in size.
6. Final Check: Click ‘Submit’ only when you are absolutely sure all fields are complete and all attachments are uploaded. Remember, once submitted, you can’t make changes!
7. Special Cases: If you are a youth with disabilities, a refugee, or displaced youth, you are required to fill in the online application portal as specified.

For more detailed information, you can always visit the official webpage of the University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program: Official Program Webpage.

This is an incredible opportunity to transform your future and contribute to your community. If the University of Rwanda Mastercard Foundation Bursary sounds like the perfect fit for you, don’t hesitate — apply now and take that huge step towards your dreams! And hey, while you’re here, explore more amazing bursaries right here on Bursaries Room!

Michael Brooks

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