Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria 2026 | Fully Funded
Applications are open for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria in South Africa.
The program supports academically talented African youth who face economic and social barriers but have the potential to become leaders and changemakers on the continent.
The scholarship is open for:
- Undergraduate study
- Postgraduate study
- Honours programs
- Master’s programs
The University of Pretoria is a multi faculty, research intensive university with campuses in Pretoria, its surrounding areas, and Johannesburg.
Through its partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, the university provides full scholarship support and leadership development for young Africans who are committed to creating positive change in their communities.
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About the Scholarship
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria is designed for high achieving African students who may not be able to afford university education due to financial, social, or personal barriers.
The program especially supports:
- Young Africans from economically disadvantaged backgrounds
- Refugees
- Internally displaced persons
- Persons with disabilities
- Students with strong academic records
- Students with leadership potential
- Students committed to community service
The goal is not only to help students earn a degree, but also to prepare them for leadership, employment, entrepreneurship, and community transformation.
Level of Study
The scholarship is available for:
- Undergraduate degrees
- Honours degrees
- Master’s degrees
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Host University
University of Pretoria, South Africa
Scholarship Location
Pretoria, South Africa
Eligible Applicants
Applicants must generally:
- Be from an African country
- Be academically strong
- Face economic or social barriers
- Demonstrate financial need
- Show leadership potential
- Have a record of community service or community involvement
- Be committed to giving back to their communities
- Apply to the University of Pretoria first
- Receive or qualify for admission into an eligible UP program
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Priority Groups
The scholarship gives special attention to applicants who face additional barriers, including:
- Persons with disabilities
- Refugees
- Internally displaced persons
- Economically disadvantaged students
What the Scholarship Covers
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UP provides comprehensive support. Selected scholars may receive:
- Full tuition support
- Accommodation support
- Meals and living allowance
- Study materials
- Academic support
- Leadership development
- Mentorship
- Career guidance
- Internship support
- Entrepreneurship exposure
- Community service opportunities
Program Expectations
Selected scholars are expected to do more than attend classes. They must actively participate in the full Mastercard Foundation Scholars experience.
Scholars are expected to:
- Maintain strong academic performance
- Participate in leadership development activities
- Engage in community service
- Take part in internships where required
- Demonstrate commitment to entrepreneurship and employability
- Use their education to contribute to Africa’s development
- Give back to their communities after graduation
Undergraduate Applicants
Undergraduate applicants must first apply for admission to an eligible undergraduate program at the University of Pretoria.
After applying to UP and receiving the required student number, applicants can then complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application process.
Undergraduate applicants should be prepared to show:
- Strong academic results
- Financial need
- Leadership potential
- Community involvement
- Interest in contributing to Africa’s development
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Postgraduate Applicants
Postgraduate applicants may apply for Honours or Master’s study at the University of Pretoria.
Applicants must first apply to UP for admission into an eligible postgraduate program. After starting the UP admission process and receiving a student number, they can complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application.
Postgraduate applicants should demonstrate:
- Strong academic background
- Financial need
- Leadership experience
- Community service involvement
- Commitment to research, development, innovation, or social impact
- Willingness to return and contribute to their communities or countries
Application Process
Interested applicants should follow these steps:
- Apply to the University of Pretoria first
- Obtain a UP student number
- Download and complete the relevant Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application form
- Choose the correct form for undergraduate or postgraduate study
- Submit the completed scholarship application with all required supporting documents
- Ensure all university admission and scholarship requirements are completed before the deadline
Application Deadlines
- Undergraduate applications: August 31, 2026
- Postgraduate applications: September 30, 2026
Important Note
Admission into the University of Pretoria is required before a candidate can be considered for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Applicants should carefully follow both the university admission process and the scholarship application process.
