Are you a young African student facing financial or social barriers to higher education? The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 at the University of the Western Cape offers a fully funded opportunity to pursue undergraduate or master’s degree studies while developing leadership skills and creating meaningful impact in your community.
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 at the University of the Western Cape
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a prestigious global initiative launched in 2012 to empower academically talented yet disadvantaged youth, especially young women, refugees, and persons with disabilities, by providing access to quality education and leadership development. Through this program, selected scholars are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and support needed to become transformative leaders across Africa and beyond.
This fully funded scholarship supports students from South Africa and across the African continent to study full-time at UWC in 2026. It focuses on building future leaders who will drive social and economic transformation in their communities.
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | South Africa |
| Study Destination | University of the Western Cape (UWC) |
| Scholarship Type | Undergraduate & Master’s Degree |
| Funded By | Mastercard Foundation |
| Eligible Applicants | African Students (including refugees & displaced youth) |
| Scholarship Value | Fully Funded (Tuition, Accommodation, Stipend, Laptop, Medical Aid, etc.) |
| IELTS/TOEFL | Not strictly specified (depends on program admission requirements) |
| Application Deadline | August 31, 2026 |
| Number of Awards | Limited |
| Study Mode | Full-Time, On-Campus |
| Academic Session | 2026 |
What Is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program All About?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is designed to remove barriers to higher education for talented young Africans who demonstrate strong academic ability, leadership potential, and a commitment to community service.
At UWC, the program goes beyond financial support. It provides a holistic educational experience that combines academic excellence with leadership training, mentorship, and career development. Scholars are nurtured to become change-makers who will contribute to sustainable development across Africa.
The program particularly targets individuals whose access to education has been limited by economic hardship or social challenges. By supporting these students, the initiative aims to create a ripple effect of positive change in communities and nations.
Available Fields of Study
Applicants can only apply for programs within the following disciplines:
- Arts and Humanities: History, Linguistics, Sociology, Women’s and Gender Studies
- Economic & Management Sciences: Economics, Information Sciences, Public Administration
- Education: Mathematics & Science, Foundation Phase
- Natural Sciences: Biological, Computational, Mathematical, and Physical Sciences
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
To qualify for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 at UWC, applicants must meet the following requirements:
For Undergraduate Applicants:
- Must be 26 years old or younger
- Must meet UWC admission requirements and apply for a program at the university
- International applicants must obtain qualification verification through Universities South Africa (USAf)
- Must be ready to begin full-time studies in January 2026
- Must demonstrate financial need due to social or economic barriers
For Master’s Applicants:
- Must be 30 years old or younger
- Must meet UWC admission requirements
- International applicants must meet South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) requirements
- Must be ready to begin full-time studies in January 2026
- Must demonstrate financial need
Important Note: Applicants pursuing a second undergraduate or master’s degree are not eligible.
Scholarship Benefits
Recipients of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UWC receive comprehensive support, including:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- On-campus accommodation
- Monthly stipend and meal allowance
- Medical aid coverage
- Laptop provision
- Study materials allowance
- Pre-arrival support and orientation program
- Continuous academic and personal support
- Leadership development and career guidance
This all-inclusive package ensures that scholars can focus entirely on their academic and personal growth.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following documents:
- Proof of parental income (payslips, grant letters, or financial aid proof)
- Letter of unemployment (if applicable)
- Refugee or displaced status documentation (if applicable)
- Academic application details (UWC application number required)
Step-by-Step Procedure to Apply
Here’s how to apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026:
Step 1: Apply for Admission at UWC
Submit an academic application to the University of the Western Cape for your chosen program. You must obtain a UWC application number before proceeding.
Step 2: Apply for the Scholarship
Complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program online application using your UWC application number.
Step 3: Complete All Application Sections
Ensure you fill out all six sections of the application:
- Personal Information
- Academic Information
- Family Information
- Short Narratives
- Community Engagement
- Certification
Step 4: Submit Before Deadline
Submit only one complete application before August 31, 2026. Incomplete or duplicate applications will be rejected.
Selection Process and Conditions
- Applications are reviewed based on academic merit, leadership potential, and financial need
- Due to high application volume, only successful candidates may be contacted
- If you do not hear back by mid-December, consider your application unsuccessful
- Selected candidates must sign a scholarship agreement
- Scholars must maintain academic performance to retain funding
Why Study at the University of the Western Cape?
- Reputation for Excellence: UWC is a leading South African institution known for academic quality
- Diverse Community: Students from across Africa create a rich cultural and intellectual environment
- Strong Support System: Dedicated mentorship and student support programs
- Leadership Development: Focus on producing socially responsible graduates
- Impact-Driven Education: Encourages students to contribute to community development
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 at the University of the Western Cape is more than just a scholarship; it is a life-changing opportunity to gain a world-class education, develop leadership skills, and become part of a network of change-makers shaping Africa’s future.
Direct link for interested candidates: https://www.uwc.ac.za/study/partnerships/mastercard-foundation-scholars-program
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