The University of Pretoria has officially opened applications for the 2026/27 Mastercard Foundation Scholarship for qualified and interested African students who wish to study in South Africa.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at the University of Pretoria is a fully funded opportunity that covers tuition, accommodation, feeding, laptop provision, travel costs, and living stipends for selected candidates throughout the duration of their programme.
Scholarship Summary
- Host: University of Pretoria (UP) | Mastercard Foundation
- Host Country: South Africa
- Category: Undergraduate Scholarships | Postgraduate Scholarships | Masters Scholarships
- Eligible Countries: African Countries
- Reward: Full Scholarship | Living Stipends | Laptop | Accommodation | Travel Costs
- Deadline: September 30, 2026
Scholarship Details
The University of Pretoria, in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation, is offering fully funded scholarships to high-achieving African students seeking to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies starting in 2026. The program is designed to support academically gifted but financially disadvantaged students by providing access to quality education.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides full financial support to candidates who have gained provisional admission into eligible programmes at the university. Scholars are expected to return to their home countries after completing their studies and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
This initiative focuses on developing young African leaders who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to giving back to society. Beneficiaries are expected to apply their knowledge and skills to drive positive change across the continent.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Mastercard Scholarship at University of Pretoria, applicants must:
- Be citizens of an African country
- Come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and demonstrate financial need
- Show strong leadership potential and involvement in community service or giving-back initiatives (school, church, community, etc.)
- Demonstrate academic excellence and maintain a strong academic record
Scholarship Benefits
Successful applicants for the Mastercard Scholarship at University of Pretoria will receive:
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation in a university residence
- Meals
- Books and printed study materials
- A modest monthly stipend
- Medical aid
- Travel costs (one return trip during the study period)
- Visa application cost
Available Programs
Eligible programmes are offered under the following faculties:
- Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
- Faculty of Humanities (BPolSci – Political Studies or International Studies only)
- Faculty of Law
- Undergraduate: SADC applicants only
- Postgraduate: All African countries
- Faculty of Education
- Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment & Information Technology (EBIT)
Required Documents
To apply for this scholarship, applicants should prepare:
- Completed undergraduate or postgraduate application form
- Proof of admission or application to the University of Pretoria
- Academic transcripts and certificates
- Identification documents
- Any supporting documents showing leadership and community involvement
How to Apply
To apply for the Mastercard Scholarship at University of Pretoria:
- Apply first for admission into an undergraduate or postgraduate programme at the University of Pretoria
- Download and complete the undergraduate application form (for undergraduate applicants)
- Download and complete the postgraduate application form (for postgraduate applicants)
- Submit the completed application electronically via email to [email protected]
- Wait for the review process and further communication
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews
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