MasterCard Scholarship at Makerere University 2026: Fully Funded for Africans, No IELTS Needed

Imagine a fully funded scholarship that opens doors to top education in Africa without the stress of tuition or living costs. The MasterCard Scholarship at Makerere University stands out as a life-changing opportunity for undergraduate and postgraduate students from African countries in 2026. It covers full tuition, accommodation, meals, a laptop, living stipends, and more. Best of all, no IELTS is required. This article breaks it down with a summary, eligibility rules, benefits, needed documents, application steps, and the deadline.

MasterCard Scholarship at Makerere University Summary

This table lists the key facts for quick review.

Aspect	Details
Host Country	Uganda
Study Abroad	Study in Africa
Category	Undergraduate Scholarships, Postgraduate Scholarships, Masters Scholarships
Eligible Countries	African Countries
Reward	Full Scholarship, Living Stipends, Accommodation, Laptop
No IELTS Required	Yes
Deadline	June 5, 2026

The program targets both undergraduate and postgraduate studies at Makerere University’s main campus.

Scholarship Details

Mastercard Foundation renewed its partnership with Makerere University. This second phase runs from 2023 to 2034. It provides 1,000 scholarships over 10 years.

These scholarships support undergraduate and master’s programs at the main campus. The focus stays on study in Africa. The goal is to build future leaders.

Key program categories include:

Undergraduate Scholarships
Postgraduate Scholarships
Masters Scholarships

Eligibility Requirements for MasterCard Scholarship at Makerere University

Check these points to see if you qualify:

Be qualified for admission at Makerere University’s main campus.
Have completed Advanced level education (or equivalent) in an African country (undergraduate applicants).
Have completed Bachelor’s degree studies in an African country (master’s applicants).
Show leadership potential and a record of community service.
Not hold any other scholarship.
Not exceed 28 years of age when applying (undergraduates).
Not exceed 35 years of age when applying (master’s).
Applicants who are refugees or have disabilities should not exceed 32 years (40 for master’s).
A refugee applicant must provide proof (refugee attestation) with the application.

Benefits of MasterCard Scholarship at Makerere University

This scholarship removes financial hurdles so students can focus on learning. Benefits include:

Full tuition fees.
Accommodation in a university residence.
Meals.
Books and printed materials.
A modest monthly stipend.
Medical aid.
Travel costs (one return trip for the study period).
Cost of one visa application for the study period.

Required Documents

Prepare these items for a complete application:

Application form (shows your basic info and intent).
Passport photo (for identification).
Copy of your identity document (proves who you are).
Certified photocopy of undergraduate degree certificate or transcript (for master’s applicants, verifies prior education).
Certified photocopy of A Level and O Level results (shows academic background for undergrads).
Photocopy of national ID or passport (confirms eligibility).
Motivation statement for master’s studies (max 500 words, explains your goals).
Hand-drawn map with clear directions to your residence/home (helps verify location).

How to Apply for MasterCard Scholarship at Makerere University 2026

Follow these steps in order:

First, apply for undergraduate or graduate admission at Makerere University.
Go to the Mastercard Scholarship page. Select undergraduate or postgraduate as needed.
Read all eligibility requirements. Gather the required documents.
Apply online using the undergraduate form or graduate form. Or download the forms from the announcements.
Submit the hard copy to Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program offices at Plot 144, Pool Road, Makerere University. Or email it to [email protected].

Application Deadline and Additional Tips

The deadline is June 5, 2026. Mark your calendar.

Deadline: June 5, 2026

Join WhatsApp groups for scholarship alerts. Check other opportunities on the site too. Start preparing early to meet all requirements.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the MasterCard Scholarship at Makerere University?

African students qualified for admission to Makerere’s main campus, with leadership potential, community service, and no other scholarships, under age limits of 28 for undergrad or 35 for master’s.

What benefits does the scholarship provide?

It covers full tuition, accommodation, meals, books, monthly stipend, medical aid, laptop, travel, and visa costs.

Is IELTS required for this scholarship?

No, IELTS is not required for applicants.

What is the application deadline and how do I apply?

The deadline is June 5, 2026; first apply for university admission, then submit the scholarship form online or by hard copy to the program office.