Education is expensive, but it does not have to be. Every year, millions of dollars in scholarships go unclaimed because students simply do not know they exist. Here is your comprehensive guide to scholarships available to Ugandan students in 2026.
Local Scholarships
MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program: Full scholarships for undergraduate and graduate study at Makerere University and other partner institutions. Covers tuition, accommodation, books, and living expenses.
Higher Education Students Financing Board (HESFB): Government-backed student loans and scholarships for Ugandan citizens pursuing higher education.
Private University Scholarships: Most private universities in Uganda offer merit-based and need-based scholarships. Check with your institution's financial aid office.
International Scholarships
Commonwealth Scholarships: Full scholarships for Master's and PhD study in the UK. Open to Ugandan citizens with strong academic records.
Chevening Scholarships: Fully funded one-year Master's degrees in the UK. Requires at least two years of work experience.
African Leadership University Scholarships: Merit-based scholarships for study at ALU campuses in Rwanda and Mauritius.
How to Apply Successfully
Start early: Most scholarship deadlines are 6-12 months before the program starts.
Read the requirements carefully: Do not waste time on scholarships you are not eligible for.
Write a compelling personal statement: Tell your story. Why do you need this scholarship? What will you do with the education?
Get strong recommendation letters: Choose referees who know you well and can speak to your abilities.
Apply to many: Do not put all your eggs in one basket. Apply to as many relevant scholarships as possible.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Missing deadlines, submitting incomplete applications, using generic essays, and failing to follow instructions are the most common reasons scholarship applications are rejected.
"The students who win scholarships are not always the most brilliant. They are the ones who apply consistently and follow instructions perfectly." — CareerCraft UG