Mastercard Scholarship

About the scholarship

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Gondar 2025-2026 is a fully funded initiative for academically talented African students with disabilities or from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue undergraduate and master’s degrees in Ethiopia. Supporting fields such as health sciences, social work, education, and technology, it covers full tuition, accommodation, a living stipend, textbooks, assistive devices (if needed), and travel costs. The University of Gondar, a leading institution in Ethiopia, is renowned for its medical and public health programs, offering modern facilities, including specialized disability support centers and research labs, in the historic city of Gondar, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The program aims to foster inclusive leadership, empowering scholars to address societal challenges like healthcare access and disability inclusion. Scholars receive tailored support, including academic mentoring, career guidance, and psychosocial services, alongside opportunities for community engagement and internships with NGOs or health organizations. Prioritizing students with disabilities, women, and refugees, the scholarship promotes equity and innovation, equipping graduates to transform their communities and contribute to Ethiopia’s sustainable development.

Eligibility

Applicants for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Gondar 2025-2026 must meet the following detailed criteria:

• Nationality: Citizens of African countries, with priority for Ethiopian nationals and refugees residing in Ethiopia.
• Target Groups: Applicants with disabilities (physical, visual, hearing, or other impairments) or from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Age:
  • Undergraduate: Under 30 years old at the time of application.
  • Master’s: Under 35 years old.
• Academic Qualifications:
  • Undergraduate: Ethiopian Higher Education Entrance Exam (EHEE) score meeting Gondar’s program requirements or equivalent (e.g., 70% average for international systems).
  • Master’s: Bachelor’s degree with a minimum CGPA of 3.0/4.0 or equivalent.
• Program Eligibility: Must apply for a full-time undergraduate or master’s program at Gondar in fields like medicine, nursing, social work, education, or IT.
• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English, demonstrated through prior education or standardized tests (e.g., IELTS 6.0, TOEFL iBT 80); Gondar may offer English support for selected candidates.
• Financial Need: Demonstrated economic disadvantage, verified through:
  • Financial aid form detailing family income and expenses.
  • Supporting documents (e.g., income statements, affidavits).
• Application Materials:
  • Online or paper application via Gondar’s scholarship portal (details at uog.edu.et).
  • Official transcripts and certificates, translated into English if needed.
  • Personal statement (500-800 words) outlining academic goals, challenges faced, and community impact plans.
  • Two recommendation letters: one academic, one from a community leader or employer.
  • Proof of disability (if applicable), certified by a medical professional.
  • CV detailing academic, leadership, and service activities.
  • Valid ID or passport (for international applicants).
• Selection Criteria:
  • Academic excellence and potential for success at Gondar.
  • Financial need and/or disability status.
  • Leadership potential and commitment to community service.
  • Alignment with Mastercard Foundation’s inclusivity mission.
• Additional Requirements:
  • Secure admission to Gondar before scholarship confirmation.
  • Maintain a minimum CGPA of 2.5/4.0 to retain funding.
  • Participate in Mastercard Foundation activities, such as leadership training and community projects.
• Deadline: June 30, 2025, based on similar Mastercard programs; verify at uog.edu.et.

Applicants with disabilities should contact Gondar’s disability support office for application assistance.