Are you an African student with big dreams but facing financial hurdles? The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria offers a fully funded path to undergraduate and postgraduate degrees. This program supports talented young Africans in South Africa, providing more than just money. It includes training, mentorship, and community work to build future leaders.
About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program started in 2014 at the University of Pretoria. It helps hundreds of scholars gain skills for Africa’s growth. In December 2023, Phase II began to reach even more students.
This global effort focuses on holistic support for undergraduate and postgraduate studies, including Honours and Master’s degrees. Students get world-class education at a top African university. The program aims to create leaders who drive change.
Core Objectives of the Program
The program has clear goals. It gives access to quality higher education for talented African students. It helps youth who face money problems or social issues.
It builds leadership skills and strong values. Scholars learn entrepreneurship, innovation, and community service. After graduation, alumni networks help them give back to their communities.
Vision for the Future
The program sees a bright future for young Africans. Graduates will boost economic growth and social change. They can find good jobs, start businesses, or lead projects.
Scholars join a network of change-makers worldwide. This support lasts beyond school, helping them improve lives in their countries.
What the Scholarship Covers
This scholarship offers full “wraparound support.” Scholars can focus on studies without money worries.
Key benefits include:
- Full tuition coverage: Pays all school fees and related costs.
- Accommodation: Places in university residences on campuses like Hatfield, Hillcrest, Groenkloof, Prinshof, or Onderstepoort.
- Living expenses: Money for food and daily needs during studies.
- Learning and leadership training: Workshops to build skills and confidence.
- Internships and work experience: Real-world practice in jobs.
- Community engagement: Required service to help local areas.
- Entrepreneurship resources: Tools and classes to start businesses.
- Alumni network: Ongoing help after finishing school.
With 29 residences available, students enjoy a lively campus life.
Who Can Apply: Target Group
The program seeks specific students. It targets academically strong young Africans. Priority goes to those with economic or social barriers.
It welcomes students with disabilities, refugees, and people displaced inside their countries. The focus is on inclusivity. These scholars will shape Africa’s future.
Academic Levels Supported
You can apply for:
- Undergraduate degrees.
- Postgraduate options like Honours and Master’s.
First, get accepted into an eligible University of Pretoria program. Then, apply for the scholarship.
Key Program Components
The experience covers five main areas.
1. Academic Excellence
Scholars get top education and help to succeed in classes.
2. Leadership Development
Training covers global and local issues. It builds skills to lead.
3. Community Service
Students join projects for social impact. This teaches real-world change.
4. Career Development
Internships, mentorship, and job guidance prepare for work life.
5. Alumni Engagement
A strong network connects graduates. They commit to community work post-graduation.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps for the University of Pretoria.
- Choose a study program: Pick one that fits your goals.
- Gather documents: Need ID or passport, plus school records like Grade 11 results for undergrad.
- Submit online: Use the university portal.
- Apply early: More spots for early applicants due to competition.
Visit the official site for details.
Important Application Dates
For the 2027 academic year, applications open April 1, 2026. Deadlines differ by program, such as Veterinary Science. Apply soon to stand out.
The university also offers other aid like bursaries and tuition discounts.
Accommodation and Student Life
The University of Pretoria has a supportive setup. Campuses include Hatfield for main studies, Hillcrest, and others. Residences house students safely.
Social and academic events make university fun. This environment helps scholars grow.
Why Choose This Program
This stands out in Africa for good reasons. It funds everything at a leading school. Support goes beyond classes to leadership and jobs.
Internships and business training add value. The alumni network opens doors worldwide. If you want impact, this program delivers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program cover?
It covers full tuition, accommodation in university residences, living expenses, leadership training, internships, community service, entrepreneurship resources, and alumni support.
Who can apply for this scholarship?
Talented young Africans facing financial or social barriers, including those with disabilities or displaced persons, who are academically strong and accepted into eligible UPretoria programs.
What academic levels does the program support?
It supports undergraduate degrees as well as postgraduate options like Honours and Master’s degrees.
How do I apply for the 2027 academic year?
Choose a program, gather documents like ID and school records, submit via the university portal, and apply early as applications open on April 1, 2026, with deadlines varying by program.