Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria 2026 Fully Funded

MASTERCARD FOUNDATION SCHOLARS PROGRAM AT THE UNIVERSITY OF PRETORIA (UP)

The University of Pretoria, in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, invites applications for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. This prestigious scholarship is designed to support highly talented African students who face significant economic, social, or systemic barriers to accessing higher education. The program provides full financial and holistic support for students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate (Honours and Master's) studies. Join us now for new opportunities at The Light of Engineering.

Through this initiative, the University of Pretoria and the Mastercard Foundation aim to develop a new generation of ethical, innovative, and socially responsible African leaders. Since its establishment, the program has focused on empowering young people especially those from marginalized backgrounds, including refugees, internally displaced persons, and persons living with disabilities to achieve academic success and contribute meaningfully to the transformation of the African continent.

SCHOLARSHIP BENEFITS

Successful applicants of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UP receive comprehensive support, including:

Full tuition coverage
Accommodation and living expenses
Learning materials and academic support
Leadership development training
Internship and community engagement opportunities
Entrepreneurship and career development support
Mentorship and psychosocial support services

The program is designed to ensure scholars not only succeed academically but also transition into meaningful employment, entrepreneurship, or further studies after graduation.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

Be a citizen of an African country
Demonstrate strong academic performance
Show proven leadership potential and community engagement
Come from economically or socially disadvantaged backgrounds
Refugees, internally displaced persons, and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply
Must have applied for and been admitted into a qualifying UP program
For Master's applicants: must be first-year students with a strong academic record

AVAILABLE PROGRAMS

The scholarship supports selected degree programs across the following faculties at the University of Pretoria:

Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
Faculty of Humanities
Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment and IT
Faculty of Law
Faculty of Education

Programs are offered at Undergraduate, Honours, and Master's levels depending on faculty admission requirements.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Applicants are typically required to submit:

Completed online application form
Certified academic transcripts and certificates
Proof of admission or application to UP
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Personal statement or motivation letter
Recommendation letters (academic or professional references)
Copy of valid identification or passport
Proof of financial need (where applicable)

APPLICATION PROCEDURES

The application process generally follows these steps:

Apply for admission into a qualifying program at the University of Pretoria by 30 June 2026
Once admitted or conditionally admitted, apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program using the Undergraduate form or Postgraduate form
Submit the scholarship application form and all required supporting documents to mcfsp@up.ac.za before the deadline
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews and further assessment

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

The program places strong emphasis on leadership development, community service, internships, and entrepreneurship
Scholars are expected to actively participate in leadership and community development activities during their studies
Upon graduation, scholars are encouraged to return to their home countries and contribute to social and economic development
The program is part of a long-term partnership between UP and the Mastercard Foundation aimed at transforming Africa through education and leadership development