University of Pretoria Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 — Fully Funded
The University of Pretoria Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 is open to academically talented African students facing economic and social barriers, with two deadlines depending on your level of study — August 31, 2026 for undergraduate applicants and September 30, 2026 for postgraduate applicants. If you are a citizen of an African country, have applied to or gained admission to the University of Pretoria, and can demonstrate both academic ability and genuine financial need alongside leadership potential, this programme provides full tuition fees, monthly stipend, accommodation and meals, health insurance, study materials, an internship opportunity with travel support, and structured leadership and entrepreneurship training for the full duration of your approved degree.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria stands out from many scholarship programmes across Africa because it focuses on developing future leaders, not just supporting academic success. The programme aims to equip scholars with the knowledge, skills, values, and leadership capacity needed to serve their communities and contribute meaningfully to Africa’s development after graduation. The programme has been running at the University of Pretoria since 2014 in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, and its track record is long enough that its scholars have become a visible and growing network across the continent.
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The support structure reflects that long-term ambition. The programme covers more than tuition and living expenses. Scholars also take part in community service activities, experiential learning opportunities, career development programmes, and an internship that they must complete within Africa. The programme further expects scholars to return to their home countries after graduation and apply their knowledge and skills to support national and community development. This is not informal language in a brochure — it is a stated programme commitment that applicants must be genuinely willing to honour.
The programme is also notably inclusive in how it defines its target group. The programme requires strong academic performance but also prioritises students who face socio-economic challenges. In addition, it gives specific consideration to refugees, internally displaced persons, and persons with disabilities. If your path to this point has not been straightforward — if you have overcome real barriers to get here — that context is relevant to your application rather than something to minimise. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program supports students who have demonstrated resilience and determination and seeks to strengthen those qualities through academic, leadership, and personal development opportunities.
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University of Pretoria Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Summary
| Scholarship Name ⇒ | University of Pretoria Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program |
| Host Country ⇒ | South Africa |
| Study Level ⇒ | Undergraduate | Masters |
| Benefits ⇒ | Fully Funded — Full tuition + monthly stipend + accommodation and meals + health insurance + study materials + internship + leadership training |
| Funded By ⇒ | Mastercard Foundation in partnership with the University of Pretoria |
| Eligible Countries ⇒ | African Countries |
| Application Deadline ⇒ | August 31, 2026 (Undergraduate) | September 30, 2026 (Postgraduate) |
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About the University of Pretoria Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The University of Pretoria (UP) is one of South Africa’s leading research universities, consistently ranked among the top institutions on the African continent. The University of Pretoria launched the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program in 2014 as part of the Mastercard Foundation’s broader initiative to educate and develop the next generation of African leaders who can drive social and economic transformation across the continent.
The programme provides comprehensive support that goes well beyond tuition fees. The programme combines academic training, leadership development, mentoring, community engagement, and a mandatory internship that scholars complete somewhere on the African continent. Scholars must maintain strong academic performance throughout their studies and actively participate in all programme activities.
The programme includes:
- Community service and volunteer activities
- Experiential learning opportunities designed to connect academic knowledge with real-world challenges
- Career development and professional transition support
- Access to a growing and active alumni network of Mastercard Foundation scholars across Africa
Scholars must complete an internship in Africa during their programme and return to their home country after graduation to actively contribute to its development. These are programme commitments, not suggestions.
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What the University of Pretoria Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Covers
Successful applicants receive the following:
- Full tuition fees for the approved degree programme at the University of Pretoria
- Monthly stipend to support personal and study-related expenses
- Accommodation and meals for the duration of the programme
- Study materials and books required for the course
- Health insurance coverage throughout the scholarship period
- Internship opportunity on the African continent, with travel support included
- Leadership and entrepreneurship training as a structured component of the programme
- Mentorship and ongoing academic support from programme staff and mentors
- Access to professional networks and the wider Mastercard Foundation Scholars alumni community
The scholarship does not cover funding beyond the standard study duration, does not provide loans, and does not cover all personal expenses, late fees, or personal financial losses. Plan your personal budget accordingly.
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Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for this scholarship, you must meet all of the following:
1. You must be a citizen of an African country.
The programme is specifically designed for African students, and citizenship — not just residency — is the relevant criterion here. South African citizens may also apply, as the programme does not exclude them, but the emphasis is on building a diverse continental cohort.
2. You must have applied for and gained admission to the University of Pretoria
For an undergraduate, honours, or master’s degree programme starting in 2027. Proof of admission is one of the required documents — you cannot apply for this scholarship without first securing a place at UP. If you have not yet applied for admission, that should be your first step before touching the scholarship application.
3. You must demonstrate strong academic ability.
Your academic transcripts and results are a core part of the selection process. The programme targets students who can successfully complete their chosen degree at a high level. Although financial need is an important consideration, applicants must also demonstrate strong academic performance.
4. You must show genuine financial need.
This programme targets students who face real economic barriers to higher education. You will be required to provide documentation supporting your financial circumstances — a declaration alone without supporting evidence will not be sufficient.
5. You must be facing socio-economic challenges.
The programme extends particular consideration to students who have experienced hardship on the path to higher education. Refugees, internally displaced persons, and persons with disabilities are explicitly included in the target group and are encouraged to apply.
6. You must demonstrate leadership potential
Through involvement in community organisations, student leadership, volunteer work, religious or civic institutions, or other activities where you have taken initiative or guided others. Leadership does not have to mean a formal title — it means evidence of having made a difference in a group, community, or cause.
7. You must show a clear commitment to community service and development
Both through your past activities and your stated plans for the future. The programme is looking for students whose orientation is outward — toward their community and their country — not just their personal career advancement.
8. You must be willing and genuinely committed to participating in all programme activities
Including community service events, leadership training sessions, experiential learning components, and the internship.
9. You must be committed to returning to your home country after completing your studies to contribute to its development.
This is a core expectation of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program globally, not a preference — applicants should reflect carefully on whether this commitment aligns with their actual plans before applying.
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Required Documents
Prepare all of the following before you begin your application. Because the application is submitted by email rather than through an online portal, having every document ready in advance allows you to compile a complete, well-organised submission package from the start:
1. Completed application form
The correct form for your study level (undergraduate or postgraduate). Download this from the official University of Pretoria Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program page. Use the correct form for your level — submitting the wrong form may delay or invalidate your application.
2. Proof of admission to the University of Pretoria
An official admission letter or confirmation from UP for your chosen degree programme starting in 2027. If you are still awaiting a final admission decision, contact the programme team at [email protected] to confirm whether conditional applications are accepted.
3. Academic certificates and transcripts
Covering all completed qualifications relevant to your application. Undergraduate applicants should include their secondary school results; postgraduate applicants should include their undergraduate degree certificates and transcripts. Transcripts should include your institution’s grading scale.
4. Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Outlining your academic history, any work or research experience, community involvement, leadership roles, awards, and extracurricular activities. Ensure the leadership and community service elements are clearly described, as these carry real weight in the selection process.
5. Personal statement or motivation letter
This is one of the most important documents in your application. Your statement should explain your background and the challenges you have faced, why you are applying for this programme specifically, what you hope to study at UP and why, what your leadership experiences have taught you, and what you plan to do after graduation to contribute to your home country. Be honest, specific, and personal — a statement that could have been written by anyone about any scholarship will not be competitive against one that reflects your actual story and your genuine plans.
6. Proof of financial need
Documentation that substantiates your stated financial circumstances. This may include a letter from a social worker, municipal official, or community leader, bank statements, payslips, or other evidence relevant to your situation. The specific format is not prescribed, but the evidence should be credible and verifiable.
7. Supporting documents for leadership and community involvement
Certificates, letters of recognition, reference letters from organisations you have served, or any other documentation that confirms and describes your leadership activities. Wherever possible, include documents that name the role you played, not just that you were present or a member.
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How to Apply
1. Apply for admission to the University of Pretoria first.
This is the essential prerequisite. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program scholarship requires proof of UP admission — without it, your scholarship application cannot be processed. Apply through the official UP admissions portal for your chosen undergraduate or postgraduate programme starting in 2027.
2. Download the correct application form for your level of study
From the official University of Pretoria Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program page. There are separate forms for undergraduate and postgraduate applicants — confirm you are using the right one before filling it in.
3. Complete the application form carefully and thoroughly.
Every section should be filled in accurately. Pay particular attention to the sections on leadership, community involvement, and your post-graduation plans, as these are central to how your application will be assessed. Do not leave any section blank without explanation.
4. Prepare your personal statement.
Write this before you compile your final submission package, as it takes time to do well. Write a first draft, step away from it, and revise it with fresh eyes. Ask someone who knows you and your work to read it and give you honest feedback before you finalise it.
5. Gather all supporting documents
Ensuring every certificate, transcript, and supporting letter is clear, complete, and relevant to the criteria being assessed. Check that your proof of financial need and your leadership documentation are specific and verifiable rather than vague.
6. Compile your complete application package
The completed form, proof of admission, academic documents, CV, personal statement, proof of financial need, and all supporting documents — into a well-organised set of files.
7. Submit your full application package
By email to [email protected] before the deadline that applies to your level of study. In the subject line of your email, include your full name and level of study (undergraduate or postgraduate) so your submission can be correctly categorised.
8. Submit before your relevant deadline
August 31, 2026 for undergraduate applicants, or September 30, 2026 for postgraduate applicants. Only complete applications will be reviewed — do not submit a partial package with a promise to follow up with missing documents.
9. If shortlisted, attend your interview.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview as part of the final selection process. Respond promptly to any communication from the programme team, and prepare for the interview by being ready to speak in depth about your personal statement, your leadership experiences, and your post-graduation plans.
For any questions about your application or the programme, contact the team directly:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: +27 (0)12 420 4297
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Application Deadlines
Undergraduate applicants: August 31, 2026
Postgraduate applicants: September 30, 2026
Only successful applicants will be contacted. If you have not received feedback after the selection process concludes, consider your application unsuccessful.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the University of Pretoria Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program fully funded?
Yes. The scholarship covers full tuition fees, a monthly stipend, accommodation and meals, health insurance, study materials and books, and an internship with travel support. It is one of the most comprehensive scholarship packages available on the African continent for students at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
Can Nigerian students apply for the UP Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?
Yes. The programme is open to citizens of all African countries, including Nigeria. Nigerian applicants must first secure admission to the University of Pretoria for a qualifying undergraduate or postgraduate programme before applying for the scholarship. South African student visa requirements will also apply to Nigerian scholars.
Do I need to already have admission to UP before applying for the scholarship?
Yes. Proof of admission to the University of Pretoria is a required document in the scholarship application. You must apply to UP for admission and receive confirmation before submitting your scholarship application. If you are still awaiting an admission decision close to the scholarship deadline, contact the programme team at [email protected].
Is the programme open to refugees and persons with disabilities?
Yes. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UP explicitly includes refugees, internally displaced persons, and persons with disabilities in its target group. These applicants are encouraged to apply and to include documentation of their circumstances as part of their application.
Am I required to return to my home country after graduation?
Yes. A commitment to returning to your home country and contributing to its development after completing your studies is a core expectation of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program globally. Applicants should reflect genuinely on whether this commitment aligns with their actual plans before applying.
Disclaimer: All scholarship details, deadlines, award values, and eligibility criteria were verified from the official University of Pretoria and Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program sources as of June 2026. Information is subject to change without notice. Always confirm the latest details directly on the official source before submitting your application.
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