The African Leadership University (ALU) is now inviting applications for its 2026 January and May intakes. This is an exciting opportunity for ambitious, passionate, and driven students all over the world to pursue a transformative education designed to equip them with the skills, values, and mindset of ethical, entrepreneurial leaders. Through the scholarship program, eligible students will access world-class higher education at one of Africa’s top universities without the financial burden, enabling them to focus fully on their academic, personal, and leadership growth.

Founded with a mission to provide higher education for a higher purpose, ALU partners with globally recognized institutions, including the Mastercard Foundation and other external partners, to make excellent and affordable higher education accessible to all. ALU’s innovative learning model integrates classroom study with real-world experiences, and its Pan-African community offers students lifelong networks, mentorship, and opportunities to shape meaningful impact across the continent.

SCHOLARSHIP BENEFITS
• Full and partial scholarships in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation.
• Coverage of tuition fees.
• Living allowances.
• Provision of laptops.
• Financial support based on academic excellence and financial need.
• Access to leadership development programs.
• Mentorship opportunities from industry leaders.
• Networking opportunities with global organizations.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA
Admission Criteria
• Completion of a final national secondary school exam and graduation with a certificate of secondary education (A-Level or equivalent).
• Passing 3 or more A-Level subjects (or equivalent), with at least one subject from the core list of recognized subjects.
• Equivalency certificate for all international applicants and national applicants whose exam was not issued by Rwanda’s NESA/REB/WDA. Contact us for assistance with getting this certificate +250798611161
• Applicants must also demonstrate English proficiency (minimum level: B2). If unavailable, applicants may sit for ALU’s free English Proficiency Test. At MK Scholars, we help students get ready for this test by sharing sample questions from past tests and offering preparation classes . 📚 Click here to join our prep class

Scholarship Criteria
• Must demonstrate financial need and inability to afford ALU tuition with any other form of aid.
• Aged 26 and below. Special consideration is given to:
1. Female applicants.
2. Refugees and displaced individuals.
3. Persons with physical or learning disabilities.
• Strong academic performance and potential to thrive at ALU.
• Proven leadership potential and active community engagement.
• Commitment to using the opportunity to impact their community positively.

AVAILABLE PROGRAMS
At the ALU Rwanda Campus (Kigali Innovation City, Bumbogo), applicants can choose from:
• Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurial Leadership (BSc EL)
• Bachelor of Software Engineering (BSE)
• BSc (Hons) International Business and Trade

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
• Copy of high school diploma or equivalent certificate.
• Academic transcripts/ reports (Grades 10, 11, 12)
• National ID or Passport.
• Personal statement (essay about yourself and your goals).
• Proof of English proficiency (if available). Watch how to book the ALU's free English proficiency test and register for the Prep class for this test
• Bank or MoMo statements (3 most recent months) of parents/guardians.
• Confirmation letter or a formal letter from the employer of your Parent or the person whose Statement is provided.
• Annual high school tuition fees document. Click here to see an example of this document
• Sponsorship document (from the organization or a benefactor who used to pay for your school fees, if any)
• Death certificate of a parent (if applicable).

APPLICATION PROCEDURES
Stage 1: Visit the application link at the bottom of this page to start your application.
Stage 2: The whole application process is made up of two main parts (More about you and Finances). Watch the guidance video here.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
• ALU Rwanda Campus is located in Bumbogo, Kigali Innovation City, Next to Azam, Kigali, Rwanda
• ALU also offers tuition grants, which apply as fee waivers for the minimum degree duration. Grants do not cover living costs and are non-redeemable in cash.
• The Mastercard Foundation–ALU partnership, initiated in 2020, aims to develop and place 2 million young African leaders into dignified and fulfilling jobs by 2030.
• The language of instruction is English, and all applicants must meet the required proficiency level.

APPLICATION DEADLINE
"Applications are now open for January 2026 and May 2026 intakes, and the students should apply as early as possible to increase their chances of receiving full scholarships."

HERE IS HOW TO APPLY STEP-BY-STEP:



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