Are you a young African leader with academic potential and a commitment to positive community transformation? The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 at the University of Pretoria (UP) offers a life-changing opportunity for socially and economically disadvantaged youth to pursue fully funded undergraduate and postgraduate education in South Africa. This transformative program is designed for those who not only aspire to excel in their studies but are also passionate about ethical leadership, social impact, and sustainable development.

Since its launch in 2014, the program has empowered hundreds of bright minds across the African continent, offering access to world-class education, mentoring, and leadership development. In its second phase, the initiative continues to break educational barriers by supporting young people, especially those with disabilities and displaced backgrounds, who demonstrate strong academic records and a desire to uplift their communities.

Whether you aim to study engineering, business, education, agriculture, or other priority fields at UP, this opportunity gives you more than just a degree—it equips you with tools for transformational leadership and lifelong impact.

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Program Details

Host Country: South Africa
Host University: University of Pretoria (UP)
Campuses: Hatfield, Groenkloof, Mamelodi, GIBS, and more
Program Start Date: January 2026
Program Level: Undergraduate and Master’s degrees

Program Themes or Focus Areas:

• Fully funded Undergraduate Scholarships (for first-time university students)

• Master’s Scholarships (for eligible postgraduate applicants)

• Inclusive Access: Support for students with disabilities and displaced individuals

• Leadership & Entrepreneurship Training

• Community Service & Internships

• Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Engagement

UP is a top-ranking South African institution known for academic excellence and innovation. As a Mastercard Foundation Scholar, you’ll not only gain access to a premier education but also receive targeted support to become a leader of change on the continent.

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Benefits

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UP is designed to remove all financial, academic, and social barriers to education.

Here are the comprehensive benefits included in this fully funded scholarship:

• Full coverage of tuition fees

• Monthly living stipend for personal expenses

• On-campus accommodation in a university residence

• Medical insurance throughout the study period

• Visa and travel support, including airfare for international scholars

• Books and learning material allowance

• Personal and academic mentoring

• Leadership development training

• Entrepreneurship and career readiness programs

• Community engagement and service-learning opportunities

• Access to internships and graduate career placements

This program isn’t just about earning a degree—it’s about building a foundation for lasting impact in Africa.

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Eligibility Criteria

To apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 at the University of Pretoria, candidates must meet both the academic and personal eligibility requirements listed below:

General Eligibility:

• Must be a citizen of an African country

• Must have demonstrated academic excellence

• Must show leadership potential and involvement in community development

• Must be facing significant socio-economic barriers to education

• Applicants with disabilities, refugee, or displaced status are highly encouraged

• Must commit to returning to their community upon graduation and driving local development

For Undergraduate Applicants:

• Must be applying for first-time entry into a degree program at UP

• Must meet the University of Pretoria’s academic admission requirements for the chosen undergraduate program

• Must not have previously registered or studied at a university

For Postgraduate (Master’s) Applicants:

• Must already hold a relevant undergraduate degree

• Must meet all academic and faculty-specific entry requirements for the Master’s program at UP

• Must demonstrate a strong academic record and alignment with Mastercard Foundation goals

If you meet these requirements and are passionate about building a better future for Africa, this opportunity is for you.

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How to Apply

Applying for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 involves two parallel applications—one to the University of Pretoria for academic admission, and one to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for scholarship consideration.

Step-by-Step Application Process:

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to the University of Pretoria Mastercard Foundation Scholars page.

2. Select Your Academic Level: Choose either Undergraduate or Postgraduate and download the relevant scholarship application form.

3. Review Admission Requirements: Check the University of Pretoria’s website to confirm the eligibility and entry criteria for your desired program.

4. Complete the University of Pretoria Online Application:

   • Apply for admission through UP’s online application portal

   • Submit all academic transcripts and supporting documents

   • Await confirmation of acceptance (an essential step for scholarship eligibility)

5. Complete the Scholarship Application Form:

   • Fill out all sections honestly and completely

   • Provide details of financial need, community involvement, leadership activities, and goals

   • Attach required documents, including:

     • Certified academic transcripts

     • Recommendation letters

     • Identity documents (passport or national ID)

     • Proof of socio-economic status (if available)

6. Submit Your Scholarship Application: Follow the instructions provided on the program website to upload or send your documents.

7. Wait for Shortlisting and Interviews: Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews and further assessments.

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Required Documents

Applicants should be ready to submit the following documents:

• Completed UP admission application

• Completed Mastercard Foundation scholarship form

• Certified copies of academic transcripts and certificates

• Recommendation letters from teachers or mentors

• Valid passport or national ID

• A clear motivation statement

• Proof of financial need (where available)

• Any supporting documents for displaced/refugee status or disability (if applicable)

Incomplete applications or failure to meet admission standards will result in disqualification.

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Application Deadline

🗓 Applications for 2026 are now OPEN
⏳ Final deadline: To be confirmed soon on the official UP website

Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible to avoid delays or last-minute technical issues.

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Why Choose the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UP?

• Global Impact: The Mastercard Foundation is one of the world’s leading organizations advancing education and inclusive development in Africa.

• Holistic Support: Unlike many scholarships, this one goes beyond tuition. Scholars receive academic mentorship, psychosocial support, entrepreneurial training, and life skills.

• Alumni Network: Graduates of the program become part of a powerful pan-African network of changemakers in public service, business, academia, and more.

• Inclusive Values: Students from vulnerable communities, including refugees and people with disabilities, are not only welcomed but actively prioritized.

Whether you dream of becoming a policy leader, health innovator, sustainability expert, or social entrepreneur, this scholarship equips you with everything needed to turn potential into action.