Mastercard Foundation Graduate Scholars Program at the University of Gondar: Fully Funded Opportunities for East African Students

DR. RABIU RABIU DR. RABIU RABIU
Apr 8, 2025 - 13:18
0
Mastercard Foundation Graduate Scholars Program at the University of Gondar: Fully Funded Opportunities for East African Students

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Gondar offers a transformative opportunity for academically talented yet disadvantaged youth from East Africa. Since its launch in the 2018/2019 academic year, the program is set to award 160 fully funded graduate scholarships over eight years.

About the Program

Designed to build the next generation of ethical and transformative leaders, the Graduate Scholars Program targets students from Ethiopia, Somalia, Eritrea, Djibouti, and South Sudan. Scholars will receive comprehensive academic and non-academic support to develop their leadership potential and contribute meaningfully to local and global development.

The program fosters strong academic performance, professional excellence, and a commitment to inclusive development. Scholars will benefit from mentorship, career services, leadership training, community engagement, and tailored support to thrive during their studies and beyond.

Eligible Graduate Programs

The following graduate programs are eligible under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Gondar:

  • Accounting

  • Development and Environmental Management Studies

  • Economics

  • Gender and Development Studies

  • Law

  • Logistics

  • Management

  • Marketing

  • Nursing

  • Optometry

  • Physiotherapy

  • Psychology

  • Public Health

  • Sociology

  • Special Needs and Inclusive Education

  • Tourism

Student Resources and Support Services

The University of Gondar offers an inclusive and resource-rich environment for Mastercard Foundation Scholars, including:

Housing and Dining

  • On-campus housing is provided based on the University’s admission policies.

  • Cafeterias operate across five campuses, offering meals three times daily.

Campus Facilities

  • Banking Services: Full-service Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (CBE) branch and ATMs across multiple campuses.

  • Library Access: Nine libraries equipped with digital resources, assistive technologies, and support for students with disabilities.

  • ICT Facilities: Free internet access and multiple computer labs, supported by ICT offices across all faculties.

  • Counseling Services: Personal, academic, and career counseling are available to all students through the Dean of Student Affairs.

  • Disability Services: The University hosts both the Center for Disability Studies and the Center for Community-Based Rehabilitation to ensure inclusive learning.

  • Campus Security: Dedicated campus security ensures a safe and supportive learning environment.

Campus Life

Scholars will enjoy a vibrant and inclusive campus experience:

  • Recreational Facilities: Student lounges, internet cafes, and recreational spaces available across campuses.

  • Sports & Fitness: Football field with running track at Tewodros Campus and a new fitness complex underway at CMHS.

  • Spiritual Life: Access to nearby churches and mosques for diverse religious practices.

  • Health Services: University Hospital provides specialized healthcare, including an eye care center and support groups for students with disabilities.

  • Student Clubs: Numerous clubs and societies offer Scholars opportunities to build friendships and leadership skills.

Key Policies and Regulations

Scholars can access institutional policies, including:

  • Academic Calendar (coming soon)

  • UoG Senate Legislation

  • Scholars Handbook

  • Students’ Code of Conduct (coming soon)

  • Disability Policy (coming soon)

  • Child Protection Policy (coming soon)

Application Information

Applications Now Open
The Graduate Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is currently accepting applications from both Ethiopian and international candidates.

Eligibility

 

GRADUATE

Graduate scholarships are open for Ethiopian applicants who intend to be a full-time student at the University of Gondar. Applicants with first degree from a recognized University and academically talented, disadvantaged based on the criteria of disability, socioeconomic status, and are not engaged at work at all or have been engaged at work but couldn’t able to cover their study expenses will be eligible for the scholarship. Specifically, to be eligible to apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program’s graduate scholarship, applicants must meet the below listed criteria:

  • Earned a Bachelor’s degree in a discipline relevant to their proposed graduate program from recognized University in the past 5 years;
  • Earned a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent);
  • Be citizen and permanent resident of Ethiopia (and residents of Ethiopia for at least five years at the time of their application);
  • Youth applicants with disabilities;
  • Female applicants with economic difficulty to finance university education;
  • Earned a pass mark on the Graduate Admission Test (GAT) administered by the Ethiopian Ministry of
    Education.

Note:

  • Applicants currently enrolled in any graduate program at the time of application cannot apply for Mastercard Foundation scholarship award.

FAQ

WHAT ARE THE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR GRADUATE SCHOLARSHIPS?

Graduate scholarships are open for Ethiopian applicants who intend to be a full-time student at the University of Gondar. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Earned a Bachelor’s degree in a discipline relevant to their proposed graduate program from recognized University in the past 5 years;
  • Earned a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale (or its equivalent);
  • Be citizen and permanent resident of Ethiopia (and residents of Ethiopia for at least five years at the time of their application);
  • Youth applicants with disabilities;
  • Female applicants with economic difficulty to finance university education;
  • Earned a pass mark on the Graduate Admission Test (GAT) administered by the Ethiopian Ministry of
    Education.

Graduate applicants must be in or applying to one of the following programs:

  • Accounting
  • Development and Environmental Management Studies
  • Economics
  • Gender and Development Studies
  • Law
  • Logistics
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Nursing
  • Optometry
  • Physiotherapy
  • Psychology
  • Public health
  • Sociology
  • Special Needs and Inclusive Education
  • Tourism

WHO CAN APPLY? CAN APPLICANTS WITHOUT PHYSICAL IMPAIRMENTS APPLY FOR THE SCHOLARSHIP?

Yes, but for female applicants. Academically talented with and/or without visual, hearing or mobility disability can apply for graduate scholarship but must demonstrate financial need, community giveback experience and leadership capacity/experience.

HOW DO I APPLY? WHERE CAN I GET THE SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION PACKAGE?

Applications can be completed and submitted  online. You can also Download a Paper Application (English) form and send by email (uogmcfsp@gmail.com) or mail (Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program; P.O. Box 1082; Gondar, Ethiopia) after filling the required information along with scanned copies of relevant testimonials and credentials.

CAN ALL AFRICANS APPLY FOR THE SCHOLARSHIP?

The scholarship is not open for all Africans. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program awards graduate scholarships for citizens and residents of five East African countries i.e. Ethiopia, Somalia, Eritrea , Djibouti and South Sudan.

DO THE RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION APPLY IN THE RECRUITMENT AND SELECTION OF SCHOLARS?

Yes, the rules and regulations of the Ministry of Education as well as the UoG apply. Please visit the Ministry of Education website and the University of Gondar Senate Legislation for more information.

WHAT IS THE APPLICATION DEADLINE?

The opening and closing date of the application for graduate scholarships will be April 01, 2024 and June 30, 2024, respectively.

DOES THE SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION HAVE A FEE?

There is no fee to apply for the scholarship.

WHAT ARE THE ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AT UOG?

Applicants applying to the University of Gondar must earn a bachelor’s degree in a discipline relevant to their proposed graduate program from recognized University with a minimum CGPA of 2.75. More information is available by reading the University of Gondar Senate Legislation or by contacting the University of Gondar Registrar’s office.

WHAT SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS MUST ETHIOPIAN APPLICANTS FULFIL?

Applicants must complete an application form and provide information about their academic ability, financial need and disability status, as well as community giveback and leadership potential. When applying online or sending applications via email, please have ready scanned copies of all relevant documents and attach them with your signed and scanned Application Form. While sending your application by mail, please also send your copies of your credentials and testimonials as well

WHAT DOCUMENTS MUST ACCOMPANY GRADUATE APPLICATIONS?

The application form must be accompanied by the following documents:

  • A medical paper signed by the Health/Hospital Board attesting to your disability type and degree, if you have been assessed by a health professional
  • Completed and signed Scholarship Application Form;
  • Detailed resume of academic, non‐academic and volunteer work;
  • All elementary, high school and university transcripts/student copy;
  • Two letters of recommendations from previous universities;
  • Ethiopian national and/or resident identification card, or passport;
  • Testimonials regarding their economic disadvantage (for Kebele/Woreda Administrator);
  • Letter from District Police Office regarding their criminal record; and,
  • Testimonial about voluntary community giveback and leadership.

WHAT ARE THE STUDY PROGRAMS for GRADUATE THAT ADMIT SCHOLARS? WHAT ARE THESE PROGRAMS’ SPECIFIC ACADEMIC AND NON-ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS?

Graduate applicants must be in or applying to one of the following programs:

  • Accounting
  • Development and Environmental Management Studies
  • Economics
  • Gender and Development Studies
  • Law
  • Logistics
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Nursing
  • Optometry
  • Physiotherapy
  • Psychology
  • Public health
  • Sociology
  • Special Needs and Inclusive Education
  • Tourism

Applicants are advised to visit the University of Gondar website for program specific academic and non-academic requirements.

HOW ARE SCHOLARS RECRUITED, SELECTED AND AWARDED?

Scholarships and deadlines for applying will be advertised on ETV, FANA FM radio, and Scholars Program website and through a link on the University of Gondar website. The Scholars Program at the University of Gondar will also partner with Regional/Zonal Education Bureaus/Offices and Regional Associations of PwDs, FAWE and other stakeholders to make announcements and make application materials available for potential applicants.

Scholarships are awarded on the basis of applicants’ demonstrated academic ability, financial need and disability status, as well as community giveback and leadership potential. Letters of reference from a teacher, previous Universities and a Kebele/Woreda manager or administrator will also be reviewed when selecting students for the scholarship.

WHAT COSTS DOES THE SCHOLARSHIP COVER?

The scholarship covers the full cost of tuition, accommodation/boarding, a stipend and additional expenses such as books. The scholarship also includes academic, financial and social support to help awardees develop into capable leaders in their communities, and experiential activities such as summer camps.

WHAT MUST SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS BRING WITH THEM AT THE TIME OF ADMISSION?

Scholarship winners must bring:

  • Original and authenticated student reports/transcripts
  • Original supporting documents
  • A medical history report from a doctor, if one is available
  • Basic personal and hygiene supplies

WHAT SUPPORT SYSTEMS AND SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE FOR SCHOLARSHIP HOLDERS?

The scholarship includes academic, financial and social support to help awardees develop into capable leaders in their communities.

Scholarship winners will receive mentoring, career counselling, life skills coaching, and the opportunity to participate in experiential activities and internships. They will gain important connections through an alumni network that offers information, resources, and opportunities to consult with other graduates. They will also build core competencies such as critical thinking, problem solving, and working with diverse groups to ensure their success in a global economy.

WHAT EXPENSES ARE NOT COVERED BY THE SCHOLARSHIP?

The following expenses are not covered by the scholarship:

  • Personal travel
  • Family allowances
  • Treatments for advanced medical or chronic conditions

DO APPLICANTS STUDYING towards graduate degree in any ETHIOPIAN University eligible to apply for the SCHOLARSHIP?

At this time, only students who are not enrolled in any graduate study program at UoG are eligible to apply for the scholarship.

CONTACT US

If you don’t see your answer in our FAQ or just want to talk to someone about the scholarships, please Contact Us!

Apply online

Download a Paper Application (English)

If you do not want to submit your application form online, please e-mail it to or send it to: uogqueensmcf@gmail.com

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
University of Gondar
P.O. Box 1082
Gondar, Ethiopia

 

 

Eligibility

GRADUATE  
Graduate scholarships are open for Somalia, Eritrea, South Sudan and Djibouti applicants who intend to be a full-time student at the University of Gondar. Applicants with first degree from a recognized University and academically talented, disadvantaged based on the criteria of disability, socioeconomic status, and are not engaged at work at all or have been engaged at work but couldn’t able to cover their study expenses will be eligible for the scholarship. Specifically, to be eligible to apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program’s graduate scholarship, applicants must meet the below listed criteria:
  • Earned a Bachelor’s degree in a discipline relevant to their proposed graduate program from recognized University using English as a medium of instruction in the past 5 years with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75 (on a 4.0 scale) at graduation;
  • Be citizen and permanent resident of Somalia, Eritrea, South Sudan or Djibouti (and residents of the respective countries for at least five years at the time of their application);
  • Youth applicants with disabilities;
  • Female applicants with financial difficulty to finance graduate university education.
  • Earned a pass mark on the Graduate Admission Test (GAT) administered by the Ethiopian Ministry of
    Education.

FAQ

WHAT ARE THE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR GRADUATE SCHOLARSHIPS?

Graduate scholarships  are open for an applicants who intend to be a full-time student at the University of Gondar. Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Earned a Bachelor’s degree in a discipline relevant to their proposed graduate program from recognized University using English as a medium of instruction in the past 5 years with a minimum cumulative grade point average of 2.75 (on a 4.0 scale) at graduation;
  • Be citizen and permanent resident of Somalia, Eritrea, South Sudan and Djibouti (and residents of the respective countries for at least five years at the time of their application),
  • Youth applicants with disabilities
  • Female applicants with economic but have financial difficulty to finance graduate university education;
  • Earned a pass mark on the Graduate Admission Test (GAT) administered by the Ethiopian Ministry of
    Education.

Graduate applicants must be in or applying to one of the following programs:

  • Accounting
  • Development and Environmental Management Studies
  • Economics
  • Gender and Development Studies
  • Law
  • Logistics
  • Management
  • Marketing
  • Nursing
  • Optometry
  • Physiotherapy
  • Psychology
  • Public health
  • Sociology
  • Special Needs and Inclusive Education
  • Tourism

WHO CAN APPLY? CAN APPLICANTS WITHOUT PHYSICAL IMPAIRMENTS APPLY FOR THE SCHOLARSHIP?

Yes. Academically talented with and/or without visual, hearing or mobility disability (for females) can apply for graduate scholarship but must demonstrate financial need, community giveback experience and leadership capacity/experience.

HOW DO I APPLY? WHERE CAN I GET THE SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION PACKAGE?

Applications can be completed and submitted  online. You can also Download a Paper Application (English) form and send by email (uogmcfsp@gmail.com) or mail (Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program; P.O. Box 1082; Gondar, Ethiopia) after filling the required information along with scanned copies of relevant testimonials and credentials.

CAN ALL AFRICANS APPLY FOR THE SCHOLARSHIP?

The scholarship is not open for all Africans. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program awards graduate scholarships for citizens and residents of five East African countries i.e. Ethiopia, Somalia, Eritrea, Djibouti and South Sudan.

DO THE RULES AND REGULATIONS OF THE MINISTRY OF EDUCATION APPLY IN THE RECRUITMENT AND SELECTION OF SCHOLARS?

Yes, the rules and regulations of the Ministry of Education as well as the UoG apply. Please visit the Ministry of Education website and the University of Gondar Senate Legislation for more information.

WHAT IS THE APPLICATION DEADLINE?

The opening and closing date of the application for graduate scholarships will be March 10, 2025 and June 30, 2025, respectively.

DOES THE SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION HAVE A FEE?

There is no fee to apply for the scholarship.

WHAT ARE THE ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS AT UOG?

Applicants applying to the University of Gondar must earn a bachelor’s degree in a discipline relevant to their proposed graduate program from recognized University with a minimum CGPA of 2.75. More information is available by reading the University of Gondar Senate Legislation or by contacting the University of Gondar Registrar’s office.

WHAT SPECIFIC REQUIREMENTS MUST APPLICANTS FULFILL?

Applicants must complete an application form and provide information about their academic ability, financial need and disability status, as well as community giveback and leadership potential. When applying online or sending applications via email, please have ready scanned copies of all relevant documents and attach them with your signed and scanned Application Form. While sending your application by mail, please also send your copies of your credentials and testimonials as well.

WHAT DOCUMENTS MUST ACCOMPANY GRADUATE APPLICATIONS?

The application form must be accompanied by the following documents:

  • A medical paper signed by the Health/Hospital Board attesting to your disability type and degree, if you have been assessed by a health professional
  • Completed and signed Scholarship Application Form;
  • Detailed resume of academic, non‐academic and volunteer work;
  • All elementary, high school and university transcripts/student copy;
  • Two letters of recommendations from previous universities;
  • National and/or resident identification card, or passport;
  • Testimonials regarding their economic disadvantage (for Kebele/Woreda Administrator);
  • Letter from District Police Office regarding their criminal record; and,
  • Testimonial about voluntary community giveback and leadership.

WHAT ARE THE STUDY PROGRAMS for GRADUATE THAT ADMIT SCHOLARS? WHAT ARE THESE PROGRAMS’ SPECIFIC ACADEMIC AND NON-ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS?

Graduate applicants must be in or applying to one of the following programs:

  • Psychology
  • Development and environmental management studies
  • Nursing
  • Special Needs and Inclusive Education
  • Gender and development studies
  • Accounting & Finance
  • Logistics & Supply Chain Management
  • Tourism & Hotel Management
  • Public Administration & Development Management
  • Optometry
  • Sociology
  • Public health
  • Physiotherapy
  • Law
  • Management
  • Marketing Management
  • Economics

Applicants are advised to visit the University of Gondar website for program specific academic and non-academic requirements.

HOW ARE SCHOLARS RECRUITED, SELECTED AND AWARDED?

Scholarships and deadlines for applying will be advertised on Scholars Program website and through a link on the University of Gondar website. The Scholars Program at the University of Gondar will also partner with Embassies and Associations of PwDs,

Scholarships are awarded on the basis of applicants’ demonstrated academic ability, financial need and disability status, as well as community giveback and leadership potential. Letters of reference from a teacher, previous Universities and a Kebele/district manager or administrator will also be reviewed when selecting students for the scholarship.

WHAT COSTS DOES THE SCHOLARSHIP COVER?

The scholarship covers the full cost of tuition, accommodation/boarding, a stipend and additional expenses such as books. The scholarship also includes academic, financial and social support to help awardees develop into capable leaders in their communities, and experiential activities such as summer camps.

WHAT MUST SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS BRING WITH THEM AT THE TIME OF ADMISSION?

Scholarship winners must bring:

  • Original and authenticated student reports/transcripts
  • Original supporting documents
  • A medical history report from a doctor, if one is available
  • Basic personal and hygiene supplies

WHAT SUPPORT SYSTEMS AND SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE FOR SCHOLARSHIP HOLDERS?

The scholarship includes academic, financial and social support to help awardees develop into capable leaders in their communities.

Scholarship winners will receive mentoring, career counseling, life skills coaching, and the opportunity to participate in experiential activities and internships. They will gain important connections through an alumni network that offers information, resources, and opportunities to consult with other graduates. They will also build core competencies such as critical thinking, problem solving, and working with diverse groups to ensure their success in a global economy.

WHAT EXPENSES ARE NOT COVERED BY THE SCHOLARSHIP?

The following expenses are not covered by the scholarship:

  • Personal travel
  • Family allowances
  • Treatments for advanced medical or chronic conditions

DO APPLICANTS STUDYING towards graduate degree in any ETHIOPIAN University eligible to apply for the SCHOLARSHIP?

At this time, only students who are not enrolled in any graduate study program at UoG are eligible to apply for the scholarship.

CONTACT US

If you don’t see your answer in our FAQ or just want to talk to someone about the scholarships, please Contact Us!

Apply online

Download a Paper Application (English)

If you do not want to submit your application form online, please e-mail it to or send it to: uogqueensmcf@gmail.com

 

 

For more information, visit the official website at www.uogqueensmcf.com or email mcfsp.uog@gmail.com.

Take the next step in your academic and leadership journey. The Mastercard Foundation Graduate Scholars Program at the University of Gondar is your gateway to becoming a changemaker in East Africa and beyond.

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