Over 14,200 applicants have shown interest in the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for the 2026/2027 academic year. Prospective candidates have until 30 November 2025, 11:59 PM CAT to submit their applications. This opportunity targets African healthcare professionals aspiring to advance their expertise in health professions education through a fully funded scholarship.
The Master of Science in Health Professions Education (MSc in HPE) at UGHE is tailored to equip healthcare educators and leaders with the skills necessary to design, implement, and assess innovative, high-quality, and equitable educational programs across the African continent. This specific pathway is exclusively supported by the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, which offers comprehensive funding to successful applicants. The details outlined here focus on the scholarship application process for this pathway.
This program is intended for seasoned educators and academic leaders who are motivated to influence national health professions education (HPE) policies, lead institutions, or contribute to the global body of knowledge in health education. Its core objective is to nurture professionals capable of navigating the complexities inherent in modern HPE, confidently managing educational initiatives, and pioneering improvements in both education and healthcare outcomes.
Graduates from this master’s program emerge as subject-matter experts in health professions education who can lead and innovate within academic environments. They are prepared to contribute to scholarly research, shape policies, and impact educational practices at institutional, national, and international levels. Moreover, these professionals possess the expertise to effectively train future healthcare practitioners while addressing the most urgent health challenges facing Africa.
Eligibility Requirements
- Age: Applicants should be 35 years old or younger at the time of application. Exceptions may be granted for candidates with disabilities.
- Residency/Citizenship: Candidates must be citizens, residents, or recognized refugees from an African country.
- Educational Background: A completed Bachelor’s degree in a health-related discipline is required. Official academic transcripts and degree certificates must be submitted as proof of graduation.
- Experience: Preference is given to individuals with professional experience in teaching, supervision, or educational leadership roles within higher education institutions involved in health-related fields. Early-career professionals demonstrating strong teaching potential may also apply.
- Institutional Endorsement: Applicants currently employed must provide a signed, stamped letter of recommendation from their institution confirming support and dedicated time for participation in both online and in-person program components.
- Master’s Degree Holders: Individuals who already possess a master’s degree are not eligible to apply for this Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Scholarship Benefits
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program covers the following:
- Complete tuition fees for the MSc in HPE program
- Round-trip airfare and health insurance for mandatory in-person sessions held in Rwanda
- A monthly living stipend to support day-to-day expenses
- Provision of a laptop to facilitate academic work
- Comprehensive transition support including mentorship and training in entrepreneurship, leadership, and innovation
- Opportunities to participate in fellowships designed to enhance professional growth
- Pre-arrival guidance and an official onboarding program to ensure smooth integration into the university
- Accommodation and meals during the in-person components of the program
Recipients of the Mastercard Foundation scholarship must sign a formal agreement upon acceptance and enrollment, committing to uphold the program’s standards. Scholars are expected to maintain the academic performance criteria set by UGHE to retain their scholarship and comply with all university policies and regulations.
Key Dates and Application Process
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | 22 October 2025 |
| Application Deadline | 30 November 2025 @ 11:59 PM CAT |
| Admissions Interviews | December 2025 |
| Final Decision Announcement | January 2026 |
To apply, candidates must complete the online application, which incorporates the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application. Applicants need to enter all required personal, academic, and demographic details, as well as specific information for the scholarship. It is essential to upload all supporting documents, including a valid Passport, National ID or Refugee ID, academic transcripts, degree certificate, and the employer’s recommendation letter if applicable.
Please note that only one fully completed application per candidate will be accepted. Applications that are incomplete or submitted multiple times will be disqualified from consideration.
For further details and comprehensive information about the program, prospective applicants are encouraged to Visit the Official Webpage of the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.