The African Leadership University (ALU) is now inviting applications for its May and September 2026 intakes. Ambitious, passionate, and driven students from across Africa and around the world are encouraged to apply for this life-changing opportunity. Through its scholarship programs, eligible students can access world-class higher education without the financial burden, empowering them to focus fully on academic excellence, leadership growth, and meaningful community impact.

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 quality education accessible to deserving students. ALU’s innovative learning model combines academic study with real-world experience, while its Pan-African network equips students with mentorship, global exposure, and lifelong professional connections.

SCHOLARSHIP BENEFITS

ALU scholarships and grants provide:

·       Full and partial scholarships in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation

·       Coverage of full tuition fees

·       Living allowances (for eligible full scholars)

·       Provision of laptops

·       Financial support based on academic excellence and financial need

·       Access to leadership development programs

·       Mentorship from industry leaders

·       Networking opportunities with global organizations

ALU Grants:

ALU also offers tuition-only grants applied directly as fee waivers to student invoices. These grants:

·       Cover tuition fees only

·       Are valid for the minimum duration of the degree

·       Are non-redeemable in cash

·       Do not require repayment

·       Do not cover living or additional costs

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

1.     Admission Criteria

Applicants must:

·       Have completed secondary education (A-Level or equivalent)

·       Pass at least 3 A-Level subjects (or equivalent), including one core subject

·       Provide an equivalency certificate (if required)

·       Demonstrate English proficiency (minimum B2 level or sit for ALU’s free English test)

2.     Scholarship Criteria

Applicants must:

·       Demonstrate verified financial need

·       Be aged 26 years or below

·       Show strong academic performance

·       Demonstrate leadership potential and community engagement

·       Commit to making a positive impact in their communities

Special consideration is given to:

·       Female applicants

·       Refugees and displaced individuals

·       Individuals with physical or learning disabilities

AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

At the ALU Rwanda Campus (Kigali Innovation City, Bumbogo), students may apply for:

·       Bachelor of Science in Entrepreneurial Leadership (BSc EL)

·       Bachelor of Software Engineering (BSE)

·       BSc (Hons) International Business and Trade

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Applicants must prepare:

·       High school diploma or equivalent certificate

·       Academic transcripts (Grades 10, 11, 12)

·       National ID or Passport

·       Personal statement

·       Proof of English proficiency (if available)

·       Bank/MoMo statements (last 3 months) of parent/guardian

·       Parent/guardian employment confirmation letter

·       Annual high school tuition fee document

·       Sponsorship documents (if applicable)

·       Death certificate of a parent (if applicable)

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

There are separate application links for the May and September intakes.

3-Step Application Process: 

Stage 1: Introduction
Complete a basic form with personal information.

Stage 2: Additional Information
Upload required documents and provide detailed personal and academic information.

Stage 3: Finances
Complete the Education Financing section to determine your financial contribution and scholarship eligibility.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

·       ALU Rwanda Campus is located in Bumbogo, Kigali Innovation City, next to Azam, Kigali, Rwanda.

·       Grants apply only to tuition and do not cover living expenses.

·       The Mastercard Foundation–ALU partnership (launched in 2020) aims to develop and place 2 million young African leaders into dignified employment by 2030.

·       The language of instruction is English.

APPLICATION DEADLINE

1.     May 2026 Intake: Application Deadline: 1st March 2026

2.     September 2026 Intake: Application Deadline: 1st July 2026