Uganda boasts some of the most prestigious academic institutions in East Africa, such as Makerere University, often dubbed the “Harvard of Africa”. We have several high-value, full-ride and merit-based opportunities available for local and international students for the 2026–2027 academic year.
1. Makerere University – Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme
This is the largest private scholarship initiative in Uganda, geared towards creating a pipeline of African leaders.
- Undergraduate & Masters Scholarships:
- The Award: Fully funded (covers 100% tuition, functional fees, laptops, health insurance and a comprehensive monthly stipend).
- Quantity: Makerere has announced 245 undergraduate and 13 master’s scholarships for the 2026/2027 intake.
- Target: Refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), young persons with disabilities and international students across Africa.
- • Deadline: June 5, 2026
- Africa Climate Collaborative (NEW):
- The Award: 50 master’s and 12 PhD scholarships in the area of climate resilience, sustainable agriculture and renewable energy.
- • Deadline: June 5, 2026
2. Government of Uganda National Merit Scheme
The Ugandan government fully sponsors thousands of students at public universities purely on the basis of academic performance in the A-Level (UACE) exams.
- The Scope: This includes tuition and living allowance at public institutions such as Makerere (MUK), Kyambogo (KYU), Mbarara (MUST) and Gulu (GU).
- Status Update: The 2026/2027 National Merit Admission Lists have been officially released on April 25, 2026.
- Next steps: If your name is on these lists (see university notice boards or websites), you must attend the official reporting and orientation schedules beginning in August 2026.
3. DAAD Scholarships in the Country/Region
The German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) cooperates with Ugandan institutions to fund the postgraduate studies of Sub-Saharan Africans.
- Host Institutions: Emphasis is placed on programmes at Makerere University and Mbarara University of Science and Technology.
- Fields: Engineering, Natural Sciences, Agricultural Sciences and Public Health.
- The award includes tuition, travel and a monthly allowance.
- Deadline: The application deadline for the current 2026 cycle is tomorrow, April 29, 2026.
- We encourage applications from women and candidates from less privileged regions.
4. Higher Education Certificate (HEC) & Bridging Programmes
Uganda has “bridge” scholarships for those who have passed UACE (A-Levels) but not well enough to gain direct admission to a degree programme.
- The Programme: A one-year intensive foundation programme that prepares students for entry into a degree upon completion.
- Institutions: Available in different private and public universities like Metropolitan International University (MIU) and Kyambogo.
- Requirements: UACE – Pass in at least one principal subject or two subsidiary subjects.
How to Win a Scholarship in Uganda 2026
- The “Gender & Diversity” Advantage: For the Mastercard Foundation, a minimum of 70% of scholarships are allocated to young women and 10% to persons with disabilities. It is a functional necessity that you highlight your background in these categories.
- Priority Areas: Right now, funders in Uganda are crazy about climate change, STEM and health. If you are writing your research proposal or personal statement on one of these, your “fundability” score increases dramatically.
- A-Level Points Calculation: Your “weight” is everything for government merit. Check the Essential, Relevant and Desirable subject categories for your specific course to assess your chances.
- Apply for Admission Separately: Most scholarship applications (especially at Makerere) require you to first apply for private admission to the university. No admission letter, no chance to win the scholarship.
Conclusion: Lead with Impact
Uganda’s universities are looking for students who will tackle regional problems, from food security to medical innovation.
Fast Action Plan 2026:
- DAAD Applicants: Please submit your application via the DAAD portal until April 29, 2026.
- Mastercard Seekers: Submit your leadership essays and financial documents by June 5, 2026.
- Government Admitted Students: Check your placement on the National Merit Lists 2026 (25 April).
