Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Gondar 2025

If you're a young East African with a passion for leadership and a dream to pursue a graduate degree but face socioeconomic or disability-related challenges, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Gondar could be your path forward. Applications are now open for the 2025/2026 academic year. This fully funded graduate scholarship is designed to empower disadvantaged yet academically talented youth from Ethiopia, Eritrea, Somalia, Djibouti, and South Sudan, equipping them with the skills and education needed to become transformational leaders in their communities.

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Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Gondar Summary

• Location: Gondar, Ethiopia

• Host Institution: University of Gondar

• Study Level: Master's Degree

• Target Group: Citizens and residents of Ethiopia, Somalia, Eritrea, Djibouti, and South Sudan

• Funding Type: Fully funded

• Award Duration: Duration of the graduate program (typically 2 years)

• Application Deadline: June 30, 2025

• Start Date: 2025/2026 Academic Year

• Eligible To Citizens of Ethiopia, Somalia, Eritrea, Djibouti, and South Sudan; Individuals with disabilities and/or economic disadvantages

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Scholarship Overview

Launched in 2018, the Mastercard Foundation Graduate Scholars Program at the University of Gondar will ultimately support 160 graduate scholars over eight years. The program is aimed at nurturing the next generation of African leaders by providing holistic support—both academic and non-academic—to help scholars excel in their studies and beyond.

Structure and Curriculum:

Scholars will engage in robust academic programs in one of 16 eligible fields, while also participating in non-academic and experiential learning opportunities. These include leadership training, community service, summer camps, peer mentoring, and support from the Center for Disability Studies and Community-Based Rehabilitation.

Fields of Study

• 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

Campus Life and Facilities:

Students enjoy access to top-notch facilities including nine libraries, multiple ICT labs with free internet access, accessible health services (including an eye treatment center), sports complexes, and spiritual centers. The University of Gondar also offers tailored support through its guidance and counseling services, particularly for students with disabilities.

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Scholarship Benefits

1. Full tuition fee coverage

2. Free accommodation and meal services

3. Monthly stipend for personal expenses

4. Book and academic supply allowances

5. Health and wellness services

6. Summer leadership camps and community service experiences

7. Comprehensive academic, social, and career support

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Eligibility Criteria

For Ethiopian Applicants:

• Must be a citizen and permanent resident of Ethiopia (for at least 5 years)

• Hold a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (completed within the past 5 years)

• Minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale

• Not currently enrolled in any graduate program

• Must pass the Graduate Admission Test (GAT)

• Priority is given to applicants with disabilities and/or financial need

For International Applicants (Somalia, Eritrea, South Sudan, Djibouti):

• Must be a citizen and permanent resident of one of the eligible countries (for at least 5 years)

• Hold a Bachelor’s degree from an English-medium university (completed within the past 5 years)

• Minimum GPA of 2.75 on a 4.0 scale

• Not currently enrolled in any graduate program

• Must pass the Graduate Admission Test (GAT)

• Priority given to applicants with disabilities and/or financial need

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Application Procedure

Required Documents:

• Completed application form

• Medical certificate confirming disability (if applicable)

• Academic transcripts (elementary to university level)

• Two recommendation letters from previous academic institutions

• National ID or passport

• Economic disadvantage certificate from local authorities

• Police clearance certificate

• Statement of volunteer and leadership engagement

🗓️ Deadline

Applications must be submitted before June 30, 2025.

🌐 For Ethiopian Scholars, APPLY HERE

🌐 For International Scholars, APPLY HERE

🔗 Useful Links:

• [Official Program Website]

• Email: [mcfsp.uog@gmail.com]

🔗 OFFICIAL CALL LINK

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Gondar 2025

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