UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027 | Fully Funded MSc for African Health Professionals

Apply for the 2026/2027 University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Get a fully funded Master’s degree in Health Professions Education (MSc HPE) in Rwanda.
Open to African healthcare professionals passionate about transforming education and health outcomes.
Deadline: November 30, 2025.
Overview
Applications are now open for the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027, a fully funded postgraduate opportunity designed for aspiring and established African health educators and leaders.
This prestigious program, hosted by UGHE in Rwanda and supported by the Mastercard Foundation, empowers African professionals to advance their skills in Health Professions Education (HPE) combining innovation, leadership, and equity in healthcare teaching and training.
About the Program
The Master of Science in Health Professions Education (MSc HPE) at UGHE equips participants to design, deliver, and evaluate impactful health education programs across Africa.
The program prepares future academic leaders to:
- Shape national and institutional health education policies
- Improve teaching and learning standards in higher institutions
- Foster innovation in healthcare training
- Drive evidence-based solutions for Africa’s most urgent health challenges
Graduates emerge as change agents ready to transform healthcare systems through education, research, and leadership.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be 35 years old or younger at the time of application (exceptions apply for persons with disabilities)
- Be a citizen, resident, or refugee in any African country
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree in a health-related field (official transcript and certificate required)
- Have experience or potential in teaching, academic leadership, or supervision within health-related institutions
- Obtain an institutional endorsement—a signed and stamped letter from their employer supporting participation
- Not hold a previous Master’s degree, as the scholarship targets first-time postgraduate learners
Scholarship Benefits
Selected Mastercard Foundation Scholars at UGHE will receive a comprehensive scholarship package, including:
- Full tuition coverage
- Accommodation and meals during in-person sessions in Rwanda
- Round-trip travel tickets and health insurance
- A monthly stipend for living expenses
- A brand-new laptop and digital learning support
- Mentorship and leadership training
- Entrepreneurship and innovation workshops
- Pre-arrival and transition support
- Access to an active network of global health leaders across Africa
Key Dates
- Application Opens: October 22, 2025
- Deadline: November 30, 2025 (11:59 PM CAT)
- Interviews: December 2025
- Final Selection: January 2026
How to Apply
Interested candidates should submit a single, complete application via the official UGHE portal:
Required documents:
- Passport, National ID, or Refugee ID
- Academic transcript(s) and degree certificate
- Employer’s recommendation letter (if applicable)
Ensure all materials are uploaded before the deadline. Incomplete or multiple submissions will not be reviewed.
Also Check:National Health Fellows Programme 2025 – How to Apply, Eligibility & Benefits
The University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) a world-class institution based in Rwanda ,was established by Partners In Health to transform health education and leadership in Africa. With support from the Mastercard Foundation, UGHE is building a generation of educators who will shape equitable and resilient health systems for the continent.
Visit the official program page:
👉 UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027