The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 at the UGHE (University of Global Health Equity) is now open for applications, offering one of the most comprehensive and transformational graduate opportunities available to young Africans. If you are passionate about global health, community service, leadership, or education — and you aim to address inequality in Africa — this fully funded scholarship provides an exceptional pathway to advance your skills and impact.

Through this program, 500 outstanding African scholars will receive full financial support to pursue a Master of Science in Global Health Delivery (MGHD) or a Master of Science in Health Professions Education (MHPE). You will receive tuition coverage, accommodation, a monthly stipend, mentorship, leadership training, pre-arrival orientation, and internship placements upon graduation. The initiative specifically supports young women, refugees, displaced youth, and persons with disabilities, ensuring fair access for those who have faced significant social or economic barriers.

This scholarship is not simply funding — it is a leadership and career-building journey designed to help you return to your community and strengthen health systems across the continent.

About the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE)

The University of Global Health Equity, located in Rwanda, is widely recognized for reshaping how health education is delivered across Africa. Supported by Partners In Health and founded on equity-driven principles, UGHE focuses on solving health challenges through research, training, and innovation.

• UGHE is internationally respected for its leadership in global health education, community equity programs, and public health system strengthening.
• It promotes a multidisciplinary learning environment designed to support the next generation of African health leaders.
• The university’s curriculum emphasizes practical learning, systems thinking, and community-centered impact — qualities highly valued by global employers.
• UGHE continues to build a strong reputation for producing graduates who influence health policy, enhance healthcare systems, and lead public health interventions across Africa.

Overview of Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 at UGHE 

Category	Details
Program Name	Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026
Offering Institution	University of Global Health Equity (UGHE), Rwanda
Available Programs	• Master of Science in Global Health Delivery (MGHD) • Master of Science in Health Professions Education (MHPE)
Language of Instruction	English
Duration	Full-time Master’s Program
Scholarship Type	Fully Funded
Deadline – MHPE	30 November 2025 (11:59 PM CAT)
Deadline – MGHD	18 January 2026 (5 PM CAT)
Eligible Regions	Citizens of African countries
Location	Butaro Campus, Rwanda
Number of Awards	500 Scholars (over 10 years)

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, you must meet the following requirements:

• Be a citizen of an African country (including refugees or displaced individuals within Africa).
• Be under or at the age of 35 at the time of admission.
• Have completed an undergraduate degree in a relevant field.
• Demonstrate strong academic performance and readiness for graduate-level study.
• Show proven leadership potential and commitment to transformative change.
• Be someone who has faced significant barriers to accessing higher education (financial, social, personal, health-related, etc.).
• For dual citizens or permanent residents outside the African continent — eligibility does not apply.
• Applicants must first gain admission to UGHE (MGHD or MHPE) to be considered for the scholarship.
• Demonstrated engagement in community service, health equity, or social impact initiatives.

Benefits of the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship

This is a fully funded scholarship with extensive support:

• Full tuition fee coverage
• Housing and meals provided on UGHE campus during in-person sessions
• Monthly stipend for living expenses
• Economy return airfare for international scholars
• Comprehensive medical health insurance
• Laptop provided to all selected scholars
• Pre-arrival orientation and onboarding program
• Leadership, entrepreneurship, and innovation training
• Personalized academic and wellbeing support throughout studies
• Access to an entrepreneurial fund
• Internship placements with leading African and global institutions
• Mentorship by experienced academics and practitioners
• Fellowship and research opportunities
• Support for transitions into impactful career pathways
• Strong alumni network engagement after completion

How to Apply 

Follow the instructions carefully when applying:

• Access the online application portal (links embedded above).
• Complete the application for UGHE admission and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program section.
• Provide accurate personal, academic, and demographic information.
• Upload all required documents:
  • Passport, national ID, or refugee ID
  • Academic transcripts
  • Undergraduate degree certificate
  • Two recommendation letters
• Submit a single, complete application. Multiple or incomplete submissions are automatically rejected.
• Monitor your email regularly for examination dates, interviews, and final updates.

Application Timelines

Master of Science in Global Health Delivery (MGHD)

• Application Deadline: 18 January 2026
• Admissions Exam: February 2026
• Admissions Interviews: March 2026
• Final Decision: May 2026

Master of Science in Health Professions Education (MHPE)

• Application Deadline: 30 November 2025
• Admissions Interviews: December 2025
• Final Decision: January 2026

Comparison with Similar Scholarships

Scholarship Name	Institution	Funding Type	Eligible Countries	Deadline	Location
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program	UGHE	Fully Funded	African countries	Nov 2025 / Jan 2026	Rwanda
DAAD EPOS Scholarships	German Universities	Fully Funded	Developing countries	Varies	Germany
Chevening Scholarships	UK Government	Fully Funded	160+ countries	Nov 2025	UK
Obama Foundation Scholars	Columbia University	Fully Funded	Global	Varies	USA

FAQs about Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 at UGHE

1. Can applicants apply to both MGHD and MHPE programs?
   No, applicants should select only one program aligned with their career goals.
2. Do I need work experience to apply?
   Work experience is not mandatory but beneficial, especially in community health or education roles.
3. Is an English proficiency test required?
   Yes, depending on your academic background. UGHE may request IELTS/TOEFL or proof of prior education in English.
4. Can refugees within Africa apply for Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 UGHE?
   Yes, refugees and displaced individuals within African countries are strongly encouraged to apply.
5. What is the selection process?
   The process includes application screening, an admissions exam (for MGHD), interviews, and final evaluation.
6. Are international students from outside Africa eligible?
   No, the program is exclusively for African citizens.
7. What is the expected age limit?
   Applicants must be 35 years old or younger at the time of admission.
8. Can part-time jobs be taken during study?
   Due to the intensity of the program, part-time employment is generally discouraged.
9. What happens after graduation?
   Scholars benefit from internship placements, mentorship, and career support to implement health solutions in Africa.
10. Is the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 UGHE renewable each year?
    The scholarship covers the full duration of the master’s program without requiring renewal.

Important Things to Remember

Key Area	Details
Application for MGHD	Deadline: 18 Jan 2026
Application for MHPE	Deadline: 30 Nov 2025
Required Documents	ID, transcripts, degree certificate, recommendations
Submission Rule	Only one complete application accepted
Interview Stages	December/March depending on program

Additional Requirements

• Strong motivation to contribute to health equity in Africa
• Demonstrated history of community engagement
• Clear commitment to applying learned skills in African contexts

If you are committed to shaping a healthier, more equitable Africa, this is your chance to join one of the most impactful graduate programs on the continent. Apply before the deadline and secure your place among the next generation of African health leaders. Read the full information on the official website of the Mastercard Foundation.

• Apply for MGHD
• Apply for MHPE

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