The Forum for African Women Educationalists (FAWE) Uganda, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, is implementing a 7-year scholarship program (2024-2030). This initiative is a scale-up of the Higher Education Access Program (HEAP) and aims to support academically talented young women and men from underrepresented communities to access higher education and successfully transition to the world of work.
For the 2026/2027 academic year, FAWE Uganda is offering 600 bursaries. This includes 400 slots for the Higher Education Access Certificate (HEAC) and 200 for Technical, Vocational, Education and Training (TVET) programs.
The program is implemented across the Eastern, Central, Northern, and Western regions of Uganda, targeting 65 specific districts.
TARGET PROGRAM DISTRICTS (65)
Abim, Adjumani, Agago, Amolatar, Amudat, Amuria, Amuru, Alebtong, Bududa, Bukwo, Bulambuli, Bulisa, Bundibugyo, Buyende, Gulu, Ibanda, Isingiro, Kaabong, Kabale, Kaberamaido, Kagadi, Kalangala, Kalungu, Kampala, Kamwenge, Kanungu, Kapelebyong, Karenga, Kasanda, Kasese, Katakwii, Kikuube, Kiryandongo, Koboko, Kole, Kotido, Kween, Kyegegwa, Lamwo, Lira, Luuka, Madi, Okollo, Manafwa, Mayuge, Moroto, Moyo, Mubende, Mukono, Nabilatuk, Nakapiripirit, Namayingo, Napak, Nebbi, Ntoroko, Nwoya, Obongi, Otuke, Pader, Pakwach, Palisa, Rubirizi, Terego, Tororo, Wakiso, and Yumbe.
WHO QUALIFIES
- Underrepresented youth aged 18-25 for Ugandans; Mbale, Gulu Health Sciences, Bukalasal 18-30 for refugees and Persons with Disabilities (PWD).
- Must be born district & a resident of a targeted program
- Must have completed S.4 S.6 in 2022, 2023, 2024, or 2025.
- Must not be a beneficiary of any other bursary or scholarship.
- Applicants can only apply to one of the two pathways (TVET or HEAC).
- The Applicant must be willing to give back to his/her community through development services.
- We encourage refugees, PWDs, those infected/affected by HIV/AIDS & orphans to apply.
ACADEMIC PATHWAYS Technical and Vocational Training (TVET) This pathway focuses on practical skills and technology for various sectors.
- Only STEM-related courses are considered.
- At least 1 principal pass in UACE for Diplomas or 5 passes in UCE for Certificates (years 2022-2025)
- At least 1 principal pass in UACE for Diplomas or 5 passes in UCE for Certificates (years 2022-2025).
Partner Learning Institutions: UTCs (Elgon, Lira, Kichwamba), Medical Lab Training School Jinja, various Nursing Schools (Mulago, Jinja, Soroti, Moyo), UIAHMS, MIHS, School of Hygiene
Higher Education (HEAC): a 1-year those not meeting requirements.
Access Certificate bridging program for minimum university entry
• UACE holders with at least one principal pass or two subsidiary passes.
Partner Universities: Bishop Stuart, Busitema, Cavendish, Gulu, IUIU, Kabale, KIU (Western), Kumi, Lira, MUST, Mountains of the Moon, Muni, Ndejje, Soroti & Uganda Martyrs-Nkozi.
HOW TO APPLY
- Application forms are FREE OF CHARGE.
- Pick-up: Academic Registrar offices at partner institutions, District Education Offices in the 65 districts, or FAWE Uganda Head Office.
- Online: Download off www.faweuganda.org
- Submission: Drop off filled forms at District Education Offices, partner institutions, or FAWE Uganda Head office of field offices in Fort Portal & Mbarara.
Deadline: 8th May 2026
For inquiries:
- Western Region: 0760398053
- Northern Region: 0760396661
- Eastern Region: 0760397035
- Central Region: 0760396427
FAWE Uganda maintains zero tolerance for abuse or harassment. To report: complaints@faweuganda.org or 0778807885.
