Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027-2028 at UGHE: Fully Funded MSc in Health Professions Education - University of Global Health Equity (UGHE), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027-2028: Fully Funded MSc in Health Professions Education at UGHE.

If you work in health, or you studied a health-related course and you've been thinking about teaching or leading in that space, this one is for you.

The Mastercard Foundation has teamed up with the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) to run the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. They're now accepting applications for the Master of Science in Health Professions Education (MSc in HPE) for the 2027-2028 academic year. It's open to qualified candidates from Rwanda and other African countries, for full-time study.

The window is short. Applications open on 6 October 2026 and close on 25 October 2026 at 11:59 PM CAT. So don't wait around.

What's the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?

It's a global program that helps talented, service-minded young people, mostly young Africans, go to university and grow as leaders. The idea is to reach people who can't easily access higher education because of money or social barriers.

They say very clearly that they want to hear from young women, refugees, forcibly displaced young people, and people with disabilities. If that's you, they're encouraging you to apply.

About the MSc in Health Professions Education

This is an 18-month program. It trains people who want to teach and lead in health education, so they can design, deliver, and evaluate good, creative, and fair health professions programs across Africa.

The learning is blended. Part of it is online, and part is intensive in-person sessions where you get hands-on practice, mentorship, and a chance to build your network.

Who can apply

Here's what you need:

• You must be 35 or younger at the time of application. People with disabilities can be given exceptions.
• You must be a resident and citizen of an African country, or hold refugee status in an African country.
• You should have graduated with a Bachelor's degree in a health-related field. You'll need to attach your official academic transcript and degree certificate as proof.
• Experience in teaching, supervision, or educational leadership in health-related higher education institutions is preferred. If you're early in your career, clear evidence of teaching potential works too.
• If you're currently employed, you need a signed and stamped recommendation letter from your employer. It should confirm they support you and that you'll have dedicated time for the online and in-person sessions.

One more thing, and it's a big one. If you already hold a master's degree, you're not eligible for this program.

What the scholarship covers

Quite a lot, actually:

• Full tuition fees
• Return tickets and health insurance for the in-person sessions in Rwanda
• A monthly stipend
• A laptop
• Transition support, which includes mentorship plus training in entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation
• Fellowship opportunities
• Pre-arrival support and an official onboarding program
• Accommodation and meals during the in-person classes

What's expected of you once you're in.

You'll sign a scholarship agreement after you're accepted and enrolled. You'll also need to meet UGHE's academic standards to keep your scholarship and follow the university's rules and policies.

How to apply

It's two steps.

1. Fill in the online application on the UGHE website. It includes the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application, so you'll enter your personal, academic, and demographic details, plus the extra information the program asks for.
2. Upload your supporting documents: your passport or National ID, academic transcript, degree certificate, and recommendation letter.

Send in one complete application. Incomplete applications and multiple applications won't be considered, so double check before you hit submit.

Key dates

Who they're looking for

Talented, committed young Africans who want to make a real, lasting difference. They especially want:

• Young women
• Refugees and displaced persons
• Persons with disabilities

Stuck somewhere in the process?

If you hit any problems with the application, email mfsp@ughe.org and admissions@ughe.org. You can also visit the link on the official announcement to learn more about the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

A quick warning about scams.

UGHE and the Mastercard Foundation never charge a fee to apply. If anyone asks you to pay, that's a red flag. Report suspicious activity to your local law enforcement, and let UGHE know at mfsp@ughe.org.

Before you go

An 18-month program, fully funded, with a blended format so you're not forced to drop everything. That's a rare setup. Start gathering your documents now, and if you're working, ask for that recommendation letter early because stamped letters can take time. Aim to submit well before 25 October 2026.

Need help with your application? Call +250784868557. And join our WhatsApp channel so you don't miss the next opportunity.

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