The UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 is now accepting applications from eligible young Africans who want to pursue a fully funded master’s degree in Rwanda.
The University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) offers this scholarship through its Master of Science in Health Professions Education (MSc-HPE) program. Applications opened on 6 October 2026 and will close on 25 October 2026 at 11:59 PM Central Africa Time (CAT).
This opportunity targets graduates from health-related disciplines who want to develop their skills in teaching, educational leadership, curriculum development, and healthcare training.
Moreover, the program combines online learning with intensive in-person sessions in Rwanda. As a result, participants can develop their professional skills while gaining practical experience.
However, applicants must meet specific academic and eligibility requirements. For example, candidates who already hold a master’s degree cannot apply through this Mastercard Foundation scholarship pathway.
This guide explains the scholarship benefits, eligibility requirements, academic curriculum, required documents, application process, and important deadlines.
UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 at a Glance
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Scholarship | Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program |
| University | University of Global Health Equity |
| Host country | Rwanda |
| Degree | MSc in Health Professions Education |
| Study level | Master’s |
| Funding | Fully funded |
| Duration | 18 months |
| Semesters | 3 |
| Academic credits | 180 |
| Study format | Blended learning |
| Eligible applicants | Qualifying young Africans and refugees |
| Age requirement | 35 or younger, with specified exceptions |
| Applications opened. | 6 October 2026 |
| Application deadline | 25 October 2026 |
| Interviews | November 2026 |
| Final decisions | December 2026 |
| Application fee | Free |
What Is the UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UGHE supports talented young Africans who face barriers to postgraduate education.
Through this initiative, the university aims to prepare professionals who can strengthen healthcare education and contribute to better health systems across Africa.
The scholarship forms part of a broader ten-year partnership between UGHE and the Mastercard Foundation.
Together, the partners aim to support 500 master’s scholars over the partnership period. However, this figure does not represent the number of scholarships available for the 2027 intake alone.
In addition to academic training, the program promotes leadership, professional development, and community engagement.
For the current application cycle, UGHE is accepting applications for the fully funded MSc in Health Professions Education pathway.
Importantly, applicants should not confuse this program with UGHE’s separate MSc in Global Health Delivery. Although both programs relate to healthcare, they have different academic objectives and may follow different admission schedules.
What Does the UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Cover?
The UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support to eligible scholars.
Its main objective is to reduce financial barriers and help talented students pursue postgraduate education.
The official MSc-HPE announcement describes this scholarship pathway as fully funded.
Furthermore, UGHE’s broader Mastercard Foundation scholarship information outlines support for tuition, living costs, educational materials, and other essential expenses.
However, individual scholarship arrangements may vary. Therefore, successful applicants should confirm the precise benefits in their official award documents.
Scholarship Benefits
| Scholarship Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Tuition fees | Funding for the approved master’s program |
| Academic expenses | Support for eligible educational costs |
| Accommodation | Housing support under scholarship arrangements |
| Living expenses | Support for essential living needs |
| Monthly allowance | Allowance support under the broader program, with no fixed amount stated in the MSc-HPE announcement |
| Health insurance | Health coverage under scholarship arrangements |
| Study materials | Support for required educational resources |
| International travel | Travel assistance where applicable |
| Visa-related support | Assistance according to applicable scholarship arrangements |
| Leadership development | Opportunities to develop leadership skills |
| Mentorship | Academic and professional guidance |
Although the scholarship offers substantial support, applicants should avoid assuming that every recipient receives an identical financial package.
For example, the MSc-HPE announcement does not specify a universal monthly stipend.
Consequently, scholars should rely on UGHE’s official scholarship communication for exact financial details.
About the Master of Science in Health Professions Education
The MSc in Health Professions Education prepares healthcare educators and academic leaders to improve teaching and learning in health-related institutions.
The program lasts 18 months and consists of three academic semesters.
During this period, students complete 180 academic credits through a combination of online and in-person learning.
The curriculum focuses on practical educational challenges. In particular, it helps students develop the skills needed to design, deliver, assess, and improve healthcare training programs.
For example, graduates may contribute to the education of doctors, nurses, public health professionals, and other healthcare workers.
Additionally, the program emphasizes leadership, educational research, and institutional improvement.
These areas are important because strong healthcare systems require both competent practitioners and effective educators.
Why Study Health Professions Education at UGHE?
UGHE highlights several advantages of its MSc-HPE program.
First, the university describes the program as the first full health professions education pathway of its kind in Rwanda and neighboring countries.
Second, the curriculum combines educational theory with practical applications.
Furthermore, students gain opportunities to collaborate with experienced educators and professionals from different institutions.
The program also encourages students to examine how educational policies, teaching methods, and assessment systems influence healthcare quality.
As a result, graduates can develop the skills needed to improve academic programs and contribute to institutional reforms.
MSc-HPE Program Structure
| Program Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Qualification | MSc in Health Professions Education |
| Duration | 18 months |
| Semesters | 3 |
| Credits | 180 |
| Delivery | Online and in-person |
| Main focus | Health professions teaching and leadership |
| Practical training | Educational leadership practicum |
| Final academic component | Practicum or thesis |
| Exit qualification | MSc-HPE only |
Students who enter through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars pathway must complete the full 18-month program.
Therefore, they cannot leave early with a postgraduate certificate or diploma.
Instead, UGHE awards the MSc in Health Professions Education after successful program completion.
MSc-HPE Courses and Academic Curriculum
The MSc-HPE curriculum covers teaching methods, curriculum design, educational leadership, assessment, and research.
In addition, students examine quality assurance and accreditation within health professions education.
These subjects help participants understand how academic institutions can improve teaching standards and professional training.
For example, the curriculum design module introduces approaches to developing structured learning programs.
Similarly, the assessment module explores methods for evaluating students’ knowledge and practical competencies.
MSc-HPE Course Modules
| Module | Credits |
|---|---|
| Principles of Curriculum and Course Design | 10 |
| Innovative Teaching and Learning Methods | 10 |
| Assessment in Health Professions Education | 20 |
| Clinical Teaching | 10 |
| Principles of Global Health Equity | 10 |
| Program Evaluation and Faculty Appraisal | 10 |
| Quality Assurance and Accreditation in HPE | 10 |
| Educational Leadership and Management | 10 |
| Educational Leadership Practicum | 30 |
| Theories of Teaching and Learning | 10 |
| Educational Research and Scholarship | 20 |
| Practicum in HPE or Thesis in HPE | 30 |
| Total | 180 |
Beyond classroom learning, the program includes practical activities that encourage students to apply educational concepts.
For instance, the educational leadership practicum allows students to explore challenges within academic institutions.
Meanwhile, the research component helps students develop evidence-based approaches to educational improvement.
Consequently, the program combines professional development with academic research and practical leadership.
Who Can Apply for the UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027?
UGHE has established specific eligibility requirements for applicants.
These conditions cover age, nationality or refugee status, academic qualifications, and professional background.
Therefore, candidates should review every requirement before starting their applications.
1. Age Requirement
Applicants must be 35 years old or younger at the time of application.
However, UGHE allows exceptions for applicants with disabilities.
Candidates who exceed the standard age limit should review the applicable exception before applying.
2. African Citizenship and Residency Requirements
Applicants must meet UGHE’s African citizenship and residency requirements or hold qualifying refugee status in an African country.
The program aims to support young Africans who want to contribute to healthcare education and development.
Furthermore, UGHE particularly encourages applications from refugees and displaced persons.
Applicants should provide accurate citizenship, residency, and identification information.
3. Bachelor’s Degree in a Health-Related Field
Candidates must have completed a bachelor’s degree in a health-related discipline at an accredited institution.
Additionally, they must submit their official academic transcripts and degree certificates.
For example, applicants with relevant healthcare qualifications may meet the academic requirement.
However, a degree in an unrelated discipline does not automatically qualify someone for the programme.
4. Teaching Experience or Demonstrated Potential
UGHE prefers applicants who have experience in teaching, supervision, or educational leadership within health-related higher education institutions.
Nevertheless, the programme also welcomes early-career candidates who can demonstrate clear teaching potential.
Therefore, previous teaching experience is not an absolute requirement for every applicant.
For instance, an early-career healthcare graduate may highlight relevant mentoring, academic support, or supervision activities.
Similarly, experienced applicants can explain their contributions to teaching, curriculum development, or institutional improvement.
5. Institutional Endorsement for Employed Applicants
Currently employed applicants must provide a signed and stamped recommendation letter from their employer.
The letter must confirm institutional support and dedicated time for participation in the programme.
This requirement matters because students must attend both online and in-person learning sessions.
Therefore, employed applicants should contact their institutions well before the application deadline.
6. Applicants Must Not Already Hold a Master’s Degree
UGHE clearly states that candidates who already possess a master’s degree cannot apply through this Mastercard Foundation Scholars pathway.
Consequently, the scholarship primarily targets eligible bachelor’s degree holders seeking their first master’s qualification.
Applicants should not assume that the programme supports a second Master’s degree.
Eligibility Requirements Summary
| Requirement | Eligibility Condition |
|---|---|
| Age | 35 or younger, with disability-related exceptions |
| Nationality or status | Must satisfy African citizenship/residency or refugee-status requirements |
| Academic qualification | Completed a health-related bachelor’s degree |
| Existing master’s degree | Not eligible |
| Professional experience | Preferred, or clear teaching potential |
| Employer recommendation | Required for employed applicants |
| Study commitment | Full 18-month programme |
| Documents | Academic records, identification, and applicable employer letter |
Who Is Particularly Encouraged to Apply?
UGHE and the Mastercard Foundation encourage applications from talented young Africans who can contribute to healthcare education.
In particular, they welcome applications from young women, refugees and displaced persons, and persons with disabilities.
The programme seeks candidates who demonstrate commitment, academic preparation, and professional potential.
Therefore, applicants should explain how their backgrounds and experiences relate to health professions education.
Moreover, candidates should demonstrate how they hope to contribute to educational improvement in their communities or institutions.
Required Documents for the UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027
Applicants must submit supporting documents through UGHE’s online admissions system.
Preparing these documents early can help candidates avoid incomplete applications.
The university specifically identifies academic records, identification documents, and employer recommendations where applicable.
Application Documents Checklist
| Document | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Passport, National ID, or Refugee ID | Required identification document |
| Bachelor’s degree certificate | Proof of completed health-related degree |
| Official academic transcript | Evidence of academic performance |
| Employer recommendation letter | Required for currently employed applicants |
| Personal information | Required within the online application |
| Academic information | Required within the online application |
| Mastercard Foundation information | Required within the scholarship application section |
Applicants should ensure that every uploaded document is readable and complete.
Furthermore, names and academic details should remain consistent across the application.
Important Advice for Employed Applicants
If you currently work at a hospital, university, medical training institution, or another organisation, request your employer’s recommendation early.
The letter must include a signature and institutional stamp.
Additionally, it must confirm support for your participation in the online and in-person sessions.
A general reference letter may not satisfy these requirements.
Therefore, applicants should clearly explain UGHE’s expectations when requesting institutional endorsement.
How to Apply for the UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027
UGHE accepts applications through its official online admissions portal.
The MSc-HPE application includes a section for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Applicants should follow the steps below.
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Start by reviewing the programme’s academic, age, citizenship, residency, and professional requirements.
In particular, confirm that you hold a completed health-related bachelor’s degree.
Also, remember that candidates with an existing master’s degree are ineligible.
Step 2: Prepare Your Documents
Next, gather your academic transcript, degree certificate, and identification document.
If you are employed, obtain the required signed and stamped employer recommendation.
Preparing these materials early will make the application process easier.
Step 3: Open the UGHE Admissions Portal.
Visit UGHE’s official admissions portal.
Then, select the application for the MSc in Health Professions Education under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars pathway.
Before proceeding, confirm that you have selected the correct programme and intake.
Step 4: Complete Your Personal and Academic Information
Enter your personal details, academic background, and other required information.
Make sure the information matches your supporting documents.
For example, your full name should appear consistently throughout the application.
Step 5: Complete the Scholarship Section
The application includes information specifically required for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Therefore, applicants must complete both the programme admission information and the scholarship-related section.
Answer every question carefully and accurately.
Where relevant, explain your interest in health professions education and your professional aspirations.
Step 6: Upload Your Supporting Documents
Upload your academic records, identification, and employer recommendation where applicable.
Afterward, review each upload to ensure that the correct file appears in the application.
Incomplete documents could affect your submission.
Step 7: Review and Submit Your Application
Before submitting, check your information for errors or missing details.
UGHE requires applicants to submit one complete application.
Importantly, the university states that it will not consider incomplete submissions or multiple applications.
Therefore, avoid creating duplicate applications.
Step 8: Prepare for the Admissions Interview
UGHE plans to conduct admissions interviews in November 2026.
Applicants invited to interview should prepare to discuss their academic backgrounds, professional experiences, and interest in health professions education.
Additionally, they should be ready to explain how they will manage the programme’s online and in-person commitments.
However, applicants should wait for official communication before assuming they have received an interview invitation.
UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 Deadline
UGHE has published the official admissions timeline for the MSc-HPE scholarship pathway.
Applications opened on 6 October 2026.
However, the application period is relatively short. Therefore, interested candidates should begin preparing immediately.
Important Application Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications open | 6 October 2026 |
| Application deadline | 25 October 2026, 11:59 PM CAT |
| Admissions interviews | November 2026 |
| Final decisions | December 2026 |
Applicants should aim to submit their applications before the final day.
For example, employed candidates may need additional time to obtain institutional approval.
Likewise, graduates may need time to request official academic documents.
As a result, early preparation can reduce the risk of missing the deadline.
Can Working Professionals Apply for the MSc-HPE?
Yes. UGHE designed the MSc-HPE programme to accommodate working professionals.
Its blended format combines online learning with intensive in-person sessions.
Consequently, students can connect academic learning with their professional responsibilities.
However, the programme is not entirely online.
Students must attend the required in-person sessions at UGHE in Rwanda.
Therefore, currently employed applicants must secure institutional support before applying.
The employer recommendation must confirm that the institution will provide dedicated time for participation.
This requirement helps ensure that candidates can meet their academic commitments.
Career Opportunities After Completing the MSc-HPE
The MSc-HPE prepares graduates for careers in healthcare education, academic leadership, and institutional development.
For example, graduates may work in universities, medical training institutions, hospitals, or organisations involved in professional healthcare education.
Potential career pathways include:
- Health professions educator or lecturer
- Clinical teaching specialist
- Curriculum development specialist
- Academic programme director
- Faculty development coordinator
- Educational quality assurance professional
- Health education researcher
- Educational leadership professional
- Academic administrator
- Health professions education policy contributor
Furthermore, graduates may contribute to research on educational practices and healthcare training.
The programme can also strengthen their ability to lead institutional improvement initiatives.
However, completing the degree does not guarantee employment or promotion.
Instead, the qualification provides knowledge and skills that graduates can apply in relevant professional settings.
Practical Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Applicants should focus on meeting the eligibility requirements and presenting their experiences clearly.
Although strong academic preparation matters, UGHE also values professional potential and commitment to educational improvement.
Demonstrate Your Interest in Health Professions Education
Explain why you want to improve the training of healthcare professionals.
For example, you may discuss experiences involving teaching, mentoring, clinical supervision, or curriculum development.
Additionally, connect your interests to challenges affecting healthcare education in your community.
Highlight Relevant Experience
If you have professional teaching experience, describe your responsibilities and achievements.
However, early-career applicants can also present evidence of teaching potential.
For instance, relevant academic mentoring or supervision activities may help demonstrate your interest.
Explain Your Future Contribution
The programme aims to strengthen health professions education across Africa.
Therefore, applicants should explain how they intend to apply their knowledge after graduation.
Where possible, identify specific educational challenges they hope to address.
Obtain Institutional Support Early
Currently employed candidates should contact their employers before the deadline approaches.
This is important because UGHE requires a signed and stamped recommendation.
Moreover, the letter must confirm support for the programme’s learning schedule.
Submit One Complete Application
Finally, review the application carefully before submitting.
Check your documents, personal details, and scholarship information.
Most importantly, avoid duplicate applications because UGHE explicitly warns against multiple submissions.
Frequently Asked Questions About the UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027
Is the UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2027 fully funded?
Yes. UGHE describes the MSc-HPE Mastercard Foundation Scholars pathway as fully funded. However, successful candidates should confirm the exact financial arrangements in their official scholarship offers.
Can Cameroonians apply?
Cameroonian applicants may qualify if they satisfy UGHE’s citizenship and residency requirements and meet the other eligibility conditions.
Can Nigerians, Ghanaians, and other Africans apply?
Yes. The programme targets eligible young Africans. Nevertheless, every applicant must meet the stated academic, age, citizenship or refugee-status, and application requirements.
Can I apply with a bachelor’s degree in economics or business administration?
The programme requires a completed Bachelor’s degree in a health-related field. Therefore, an unrelated degree does not automatically satisfy the academic requirement.
Can I apply if I already hold a master’s degree?
No. UGHE states that applicants who already possess a master’s degree are not eligible for this Mastercard Foundation scholarship pathway.
Is teaching experience compulsory?
No. UGHE prefers relevant teaching, supervision, or educational leadership experience. However, early-career applicants may demonstrate clear teaching potential instead.
Is the MSc-HPE fully online?
No. The programme combines online learning with intensive in-person sessions in Rwanda.
Do employed applicants need a recommendation letter?
Yes. Currently employed applicants must provide a signed and stamped employer recommendation confirming institutional support and dedicated study time.
Is there an application fee?
No. UGHE and the Mastercard Foundation do not charge application fees for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Can I submit multiple applications?
No. UGHE requires one complete application and states that it will not consider multiple submissions.
When is the application deadline?
The deadline is 25 October 2026 at 11:59 PM Central Africa Time.
When will UGHE announce admission decisions?
UGHE expects to communicate final decisions in December 2026, following admissions interviews scheduled for November.
Beware of Scholarship Application Scams
UGHE and the Mastercard Foundation do not charge fees to apply for this scholarship.
Therefore, applicants should be cautious of individuals who request payment in exchange for admission or scholarship consideration.
Similarly, candidates should avoid anyone claiming to guarantee selection.
The university encourages applicants to report suspicious activities.
For application-related questions or suspected fraud, contact UGHE through the following email addresses:
Applicants should rely on official university communication throughout the admissions process.
Final Thoughts
The UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 offers a valuable, fully funded master’s opportunity for eligible young Africans interested in healthcare education.
Through the 18-month MSc in Health Professions Education, scholars can strengthen their teaching, leadership, research, and curriculum development skills.
Furthermore, the blended learning format creates opportunities for professional development while maintaining connections with the workplace.
However, applicants must meet the programme’s eligibility requirements.
In particular, candidates need a completed health-related bachelor’s degree. They must also satisfy the age and citizenship or refugee-status conditions.
Additionally, applicants who already hold a master’s degree cannot apply through this scholarship pathway.
Currently employed candidates must provide the required institutional endorsement.
Applications close on 25 October 2026 at 11:59 PM CAT.
Therefore, eligible candidates should prepare their documents, review the requirements, and submit one complete application before the deadline.
Official Links
1. UGHE MSc in Health Professions Education — Official Programme Information
https://ughe.org/master-of-science-hpe-2/
2. UGHE Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program — Online Application
https://ughe.populiweb.com/router/admissions/onlineapplications/index?application_form=40062
