Deadline:
September 30, 2026
Location(s)
South Africa
Elandspoort 357-Jr, Pretoria
Overview
The University of Pretoria (UP) in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has been offering scholarships and wraparound support to high achieving young Africans pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate (Honours and Masters) degrees since January 2014.
Details
The University and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program entered into phase 2 agreement December 2023 to support more young people on the continent. In January 2024 a new phase 2 cohort commenced with their studies. The target groups are young Africans who are academically talented young people facing economic and social barriers inclusive of those living with disabilities and internally displaced persons/refugees that will contribute to the transformation of the continent through their knowledge, skills, attitudes and values evidenced by their leadership. Community service and internships are essential components of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program including entrepreneurship. Upon the completion of their studies, Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Alumni commit to give back in ways that enhance the economic growth and social development of their communities and the continent.
Vision
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a global initiative to educate and develop next generation leaders who will contribute to social and economic transformation. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program enables young people facing economic and social barriers to complete quality secondary and university education to find dignified and fulfilling employment. They can also transition to further education and entrepreneurship. Through comprehensive support, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars receive learning opportunities that equip them with knowledge, skills, and values needed to succeed in the economy, and make a positive impact in their communities and the continent.
UNDERGRADUATE SCHOLARS
Please note that the scholarship is for first-time applicants, applying as first-year students to undergraduate programmes. The MCFSP currently offers scholarships to students who have applied for and have been admitted to one of the following faculties at UP:
- Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
- Faculty of Humanities for entry into the BPolSci (Political Studies or International Studies only)
POSTGRADUATE SCHOLARS
- Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
- Faculty of Humanities for entry into the Honours or Masters (Political Studies or International Studies only)
- Faculty of Engineering – continuing students are eligible to apply
Opportunity is About
Eligibility
Candidates should be from:
Description of Ideal Candidate
Eligibility Criteria
- Candidates should be citizens from Sub-Saharan African country.
- Applicants should come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and demonstrate financial neediness.
- Candidates should demonstrate leadership potential and ought to be involved in a giving back project eg. in a community, at school, church etc
- Academic excellence is paramount and students have to maintain a high academic average at all times.
- Candidates need to be first time applicants as first year students in the degree programme.
Instructions
- In order to apply for the scholarship, you MUST have been admitted into a degree at UP. You will need your student number to complete the MCFSP application, which must be accompanied by your academic records and other supporting documents as outlined in the application form.
- Be sure to include documents that support what your family, guardian or foster
parents can afford to pay. Examples of such documentation include bank
statements, pay slips and loan documents. - Only students admitted to full-time study at UP will be considered for the scholarship.
- Only prospective students who cannot afford to pay the full fees are eligible to apply. Do not apply for funding if you or your parents, guardian or foster parents can afford the full tuition fees.
- All the information provided must be accurate and true. Any falsification of
information on the application form may result in disqualification from consideration for a scholarship
Dates
Deadline: September 30, 2026
Cost/funding for participants
WHAT THE PROGRAM DOES
- We provide the scholars with: 1st Year: start up funds, Visa fees
- Annual support
- Monthly stipend
- Tuition fees
- School supplies, books (Fundi)
- Student health insurance (medical aid)
- One-time only African based, summer internship (flight and stipend)
- Campus room and board
Services
- Focuses courses, seminars, including leadership courses
- Counselling and psychological services
- Opportunities for volunteerism, community services
- Dedicated student services advisor, campus support committee, holistic tutoring and mentoring
UP international office dedicated liaison, workshop services, advising and more.
WHAT THE PROGRAM DOES NOT DO
- Funding beyond the standard 8 semesters (for undergraduates), including summer school, or 2 years (graduates)
- Loans
- Guaranteed coverage of all medical or dental
- Late fees (e.g late add/drops) and lost items (keys, laptops etc.)
- Professional development funds for individuals (eg conferences)
- Internship or job placement)
- SAQA, USAf and Passport fees
Un-save Opportunity
Internships, scholarships, student conferences and competitions.
