KIGALI – The Higher Education Council (HEC) has unveiled a significant expansion of international academic opportunities for Rwandan students, announcing three separate government scholarship schemes for the 2026 academic intake in partnership with Hungary, Mauritius, and South Korea.
This initiative, stemming from bilateral cooperation agreements, offers fully-funded scholarships at undergraduate, master’s, and PhD levels, marking a substantial investment in the nation’s human capital development.
1. Stipendium Hungaricum Scholarship Programme (Hungary)
In a continuation of its successful partnership, the Republic of Hungary has offered scholarships to Rwandan students through its prestigious Stipendium Hungaricum programme. The scholarships are tenable for studies commencing in the 2026-2027 academic year.
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Levels of Study: Bachelor’s (4 years), Master’s (2 years), and PhD (4 years).
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Application Window: November 18, 2025 – January 15, 2026.
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Key Requirements: Applicants must submit an application letter addressed to the Director General of HEC, a copy of their National ID, a recent passport photo, and certified academic certificates. A recommendation from an employer is an added advantage for Master’s and PhD candidates.
2. Mauritius-Africa Scholarship Scheme (Mauritius)
The Government of Mauritius, under its Mauritius-Africa Scholarship Scheme, has also opened applications for Rwandan scholars. This scheme covers all levels of study for the 2026 academic intake at public Higher Education Institutions in Mauritius.
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Levels of Study: Bachelor’s (4 years), Master’s (2 years), and PhD (3 years).
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Application Window: November 18, 2025 – January 15, 2026.
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Key Requirements: The application process requires a more comprehensive set of documents, including a conditional offer letter from a public university in Mauritius, a certified copy of a valid passport, a birth certificate, a medical certificate, and a detailed study/research plan for postgraduate applicants. PhD candidates must also secure a supporting statement from a named supervisor in Mauritius.
3. KOICA Scholarship Program (South Korea)
For those seeking specialized master’s degrees, the Korea International Cooperation Agency (KOICA) is offering five distinct programs in South Korea. Prospective applicants are urged to note the imminent application deadline.
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Levels of Study: Master’s Degree only (2 years).
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Application Window: November 7, 2025 – November 25, 2025 (Closing Soon).
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Available Programs: The programs include a Master’s in Global Education Leadership at the Korea National University of Education and a Master’s in Tax and Fiscal Policy at Korea University, among others.
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Key Requirements: A critical requirement is the completed KOICA Application Form, which must include a signed and stamped nomination from the applicant’s government institution.
A Strategic Investment in the Future
Commenting on the opportunities, a representative from the HEC stated, “These scholarship schemes are a testament to the strong bilateral relations Rwanda enjoys with these nations. They provide a golden opportunity for our talented youth and professionals to gain world-class education and specialized skills, which are crucial for driving Rwanda’s continued development.”
The HEC encourages all eligible and interested Rwandan citizens to review the specific requirements for each program carefully and submit their applications through the official portal before the respective deadlines. Detailed information on the application process and specific course lists for the KOICA program can be found on the HEC’s official website.
Interested candidates must log in to the HEC application portal to apply.
