Are you a driven young South African graduate with strong ambitions in entrepreneurship, governance, and social development, seeking international exposure without overwhelming financial pressure? The MCI-Herman Mashaba Scholarship 2026 offers a powerful opportunity to pursue a master’s degree in Austria while receiving financial support valued at €13,500 per year.
Through this scholarship, academic excellence, ethical leadership, and societal impact are deliberately nurtured in a globally competitive learning environment.
MCI-Herman Mashaba Scholarship 2026
The MCI-Herman Mashaba Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious international funding initiative established through a collaboration between renowned South African entrepreneur and statesman Herman Mashaba and MCI | The Entrepreneurial School, located in Innsbruck, Austria. This scholarship was designed to support talented South African students who demonstrate a strong commitment to entrepreneurship, societal advancement, and good governance.
Through this initiative, promising individuals are enabled to study at one of Europe’s leading universities of applied sciences, where theory and practice are intentionally combined. As a result, recipients are not only academically strengthened but are also prepared to contribute meaningfully to economic growth and institutional development in South Africa and beyond.
MCI-Herman Mashaba Scholarship 2026 Summary
| Category | Details |
| Host Country | Austria |
| Study Destination | MCI |
| Scholarship Type | Master’s Degree Scholarship |
| Funded By | Herman Mashaba & MCI Innsbruck |
| Eligible Applicants | Young South African Students |
| Scholarship Value | €13,500 per year |
| Applicable Level | Master’s & Executive Master’s Programs |
| Study Mode | Full-Time and Executive (Program Dependent) |
| Duration | First Year (Renewable Based on Performance) |
| Application Deadline | March 31, 2026 |
| Academic Session | 2026 Intake |
What Is the MCI-Herman Mashaba Scholarship All About?
The MCI-Herman Mashaba Scholarship was established with a clear mission: to develop ethical leaders who are capable of driving entrepreneurship, strengthening institutions, and promoting good governance. These pillars are regarded as essential foundations for sustainable development, particularly within emerging economies such as South Africa.
Through this scholarship, students are supported during the first year of their master’s programme, with the possibility of extension into subsequent years. However, renewal is not automatic. Instead, continued funding is determined by academic performance, level of engagement, and demonstrated alignment with the scholarship’s core mission.
Moreover, by studying at MCI Innsbruck, scholars are immersed in an environment where applied research, industry collaboration, and innovation are prioritized. Consequently, graduates are equipped with both technical expertise and strategic leadership skills.
About MCI – The Entrepreneurial School in Innsbruck
MCI Innsbruck is internationally recognized for its strong emphasis on entrepreneurship, innovation, and applied sciences. Located in the heart of the Austrian Alps, the institution maintains close partnerships with global industries, research centers, and policy institutions.
Programs at MCI are structured to ensure that academic knowledge is consistently linked to real-world applications. Therefore, students are exposed to practical case studies, industry projects, and international perspectives throughout their studies. For scholarship recipients, this approach significantly enhances employability and leadership readiness.
Applicable Master’s and Executive Programs
The MCI-Herman Mashaba Scholarship 2026 applies to a wide range of master’s and executive master’s programs. These programs were selected because of their relevance to entrepreneurship, governance, technology, and social impact.
Eligible programs include, but are not limited to:
Master’s Degree Programs
- Biotechnology
- Corporate Governance & Finance
- Entrepreneurship & Tourism
- Environmental, Process & Energy Engineering (Full-Time)
- International Business & Law
- International Business & Management
- International Health & Social Management
- Management, Communication & IT
- Mechatronics & Smart Technologies (Full-Time)
- Medical Technologies
Executive Master’s Programs
- Executive MBA General Management
- Other Executive Master’s pathways offered by MCI
Through these programs, students are prepared for leadership roles across both public and private sectors.
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
The scholarship is specifically targeted at young South African students who demonstrate academic promise, leadership potential, and a clear commitment to societal development.
Applicants are expected to meet the following conditions:
- Must be a South African citizen with valid travel documentation
- Must have applied for admission to an eligible master’s or executive master’s programme at MCI Innsbruck
- Must demonstrate prior or ongoing engagement in entrepreneurship, societal development, or good governance initiatives
- Must possess strong academic records from previous studies
- Must show clear career goals aligned with the mission of the scholarship
- Must demonstrate language proficiency as required by the chosen programme
Importantly, applicants are assessed holistically. Therefore, leadership potential and future impact are weighed alongside academic achievements.
Scholarship Benefits and Financial Support
The MCI-Herman Mashaba Scholarship 2026 provides financial support valued at €13,500 per year, which is applied toward study-related expenses during the first year of the program.
Key benefits include:
- Significant reduction in tuition-related financial burden
- Increased access to international education in Austria
- Opportunity for renewal based on strong academic performance and engagement
- Enhanced access to mentorship, networking, and professional development opportunities
Although the scholarship does not cover all living expenses, it substantially eases the financial pressure associated with studying abroad. Consequently, students are better positioned to focus on academic and professional growth.
Required Application Documents
To be considered for the scholarship, applicants must submit a complete and well-prepared documentation package. The following materials are required:
- Confirmation of application to an eligible MCI study program
- A detailed motivation letter outlining:
- Engagement in entrepreneurship, society, and good governance
- Long-term career goals
- How studying at MCI will support these goals
- The financial impact of the scholarship on the applicant
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Valid passport copy
- Proof of language proficiency
All documents must be uploaded through the designated MCI Scholarship for South African Students application portal.
Selection Criteria Explained
Selection for the MCI-Herman Mashaba Scholarship 2026 is competitive and merit-based. Applications are evaluated using several key criteria, including:
- Academic performance, both current and past
- Demonstrated involvement in entrepreneurship, governance, or social initiatives
- Clarity and feasibility of future goals
- Alignment between career objectives and the chosen MCI degree program
- Potential long-term impact of the applicant’s goals on society
Through this process, candidates with the strongest potential to create meaningful change are identified.
Step-by-Step Application Procedure
To apply successfully for the scholarship, applicants are advised to follow these steps carefully:
Step 1: Apply for Admission to MCI
Applicants must first apply to their chosen master’s or executive master’s program at MCI Innsbruck.
Step 2: Prepare Scholarship Documents
All required documents, including the motivation letter and CV, should be carefully prepared and reviewed.
Step 3: Submit Scholarship Application
The scholarship application and supporting documents must be uploaded through the official MCI scholarship portal before March 31, 2026.
Step 4: Await Selection Outcome
Applications are reviewed after the deadline, and selected candidates are contacted directly.
Because of the competitive nature of the scholarship, early application and thorough preparation are strongly recommended.
Why Choose the MCI-Herman Mashaba Scholarship?
The MCI-Herman Mashaba Scholarship 2026 offers more than financial assistance. It provides access to an international ecosystem where leadership, ethics, and innovation are actively cultivated.
Through this scholarship:
- South African students gain global exposure
- Entrepreneurial thinking is strengthened
- Networks with international professionals are built
- Long-term societal impact is encouraged
As a result, scholars return home or move forward globally with skills that are both relevant and transformative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the MCI-Herman Mashaba Scholarship fully funded?
No. The scholarship provides €13,500 per year toward study costs but does not cover all living expenses.
Can the scholarship be renewed after the first year?
Yes. Renewal is possible based on academic performance, engagement, and overall progress.
Is the scholarship limited to specific fields of study?
Yes. Only selected master’s and executive master’s programs at MCI are eligible.
Do I need to secure admission before applying for the scholarship?
Yes. Proof of application to an eligible MCI program is required.
Are executive master’s programs included?
Yes. Selected executive master’s programs, including the Executive MBA, are eligible.
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