Financing for equity in higher education
1. Education resources to subnational governments
2. Education resources to institutions
3. Education resources to students
4. Support for students' living costs
Introduction
Key financing indicators (UIS Data)
In 2024, the gross enrolment ratio for tertiary education (both sexes) was 9%, while initial government funding per tertiary student as a percentage of GDP was 87%.
Tuition-free status
Legislation does not require public higher education to be free of charge.
Governance
The Ministry of Education is overall responsible for the supervision and funding of higher education. The Higher Education Council, a public institution under the Ministry of Education, is responsible for setting higher education standards, coordinating quality assurance processes, and administering scholarships, loans and bursaries.
1. Education resources to subnational governments
Public universities receive central government funding.
2. Education resources to institutions
Funding for private universities in the absence of public institutions
According to the 2017 Law on the Organisation and Functioning of Higher Education, there are 3 types of higher education institutions in Rwanda: public, government-subsidised and private. Private higher education institutions do not receive government funding. However, the 2024-29 Education Sector Strategic Plan encourages the provision of grants for students in high-priority programmes of private universities.
Allocation and equity
Public universities are funded via a block grant that takes into account funded student numbers and differential costs of subject provision, as described in the 2008 Higher Education Policy. Funded students are those eligible for scholarships, loans or bursaries (see section 3).
3. Education resources to students
Admission for vulnerable groups
There are no national quotas for specific population groups to enrol in higher education programmes. The admissions process of each higher education institution is determined by its internal rules and regulations. According to the 2025 National Policy on Student Admission into Higher Education, institutions should operate their admissions policy in line with their Equality and Diversity policies, as described in the 2007 National Equality and Diversity Policy for Higher Education. All higher education providers are additionally required to monitor their student population profile and produce strategies and plans for redressing identified inequalities.
Scholarships, grants and loans for vulnerable groups
Over 90% of students in public universities are supported through the government’s higher education loan scheme, which covers tuition fees, living expenses, research fees, ICT materials and other academic expenses that may be determined by the institution. The 2023 Ministerial Order Determining Benefits for Learners and 2008 Higher Education Policy regulate the provision of study loans and bursaries. The Bursary/Loan and Fund Management Unit of the Higher Education Council manages financial support to students, including scholarships, loans and bursaries. Requirements typically include academic excellence, proof of financial need, and acceptance into an accredited institution. Specific eligibility criteria vary depending on the type of bursary/scholarship.
4. Support for students’ living costs
Transportation
Student transport expenses and other allowances are disbursed as part of the study loan or bursary.
Accommodation
Living expenses are covered as part of student loans. Living allowances are deposited in student bank accounts every month or every 2/3 months of the academic year by the Higher Education Council.
Textbooks
Student financial support may cover research fees, ICT materials and other academic expenses, but does not explicitly cover textbooks.
