Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 presents a life-changing opportunity for African students aiming to pursue higher education without financial constraints. Offered at top partner institutions like the University of the Western Cape, this fully-funded program supports both undergraduate and postgraduate studies. It is designed to empower academically talented individuals who face social or economic challenges, particularly young women, refugees, and students living with disabilities, by covering tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, and other educational costs. Check also: RMIT University Scholarships 2025-2026 in Australia | Fully Funded
The 2026 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program not only removes financial barriers but also fosters leadership, entrepreneurship, and community engagement. Scholars benefit from mentorship, academic support, and a global network that prepares them to become changemakers in their communities. Whether your dream is to become a scientist, educator, or policy leader, this scholarship program equips you with the resources and environment to succeed. Apply today and take the first step toward a brighter future through world-class education and transformative opportunities. Check also: BRAC Scholarship 2026 in Bangladesh | Fully Funded
Scholarship Summary
- Host Country: South Africa
- Host Organisation: MasterCard Foundation
- Host University: University of the Western Cape
- Study Level: Undergraduate, Master’s
- Eligibility: African Students
- Deadline: 31 August 2025
Benefits of the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026
- Financial support for personal expenses and meals.
- Accommodation in a UWC residence.
- Tailored assistance throughout studies for an optimal experience.
- Coverage for health-related needs.
- Essential technology for academic success.
- Funding for required academic materials.
- Assistance with initial preparations and an official onboarding welcome program.
- Comprehensive support programs address various aspects of student life.
Check also: DAAD Berlin International Excellence Scholarship 2026 in Germany | Fully Funded
Study Areas
Undergraduate Programs
- Arts & Humanities:
- History
- Linguistics
- Sociology
- Women’s and Gender Studies
- Economic & Management Sciences:
- Economics
- Information Sciences
- Public Administration
- Education:
- Mathematics and Science
- Foundation Phase
- Natural Sciences:
- Biological Sciences
- Computational Sciences
- Mathematical Sciences
- Physical Sciences
Master’s Degree
- Humanities & Arts:
- Applied Linguistics
- History
- Gender Justice
- Migration Studies
- Sociology for Development
- Community & Health Sciences:
- Public Health
- Economic & Management Sciences:
- Development Studies
- Information Sciences
- Migration Studies
- Law:
- Governance and Human Rights
- Natural Sciences:
- Biological Sciences
- Computational Sciences
- Mathematical Sciences
- Physical Sciences
- Undergraduate Degree:
- Must be 26 years old or younger.
- Meet UWC’s minimum admission standards.
- Have applied for academic admission to UWC for 2026.
- Be ready to begin full-time undergraduate studies in January 2026.
- Provide proof that access to higher education is hindered by social and economic barriers.
- Master’s Degree:
- Must be 30 years old or younger.
- Meet UWC’s minimum admission standards.
- Have applied for academic admission to UWC for 2026.
- Be ready to start full-time master’s degree studies in January 2026.
- Provide proof that access to higher education is hindered by social and economic barriers.
Check also: MEXT YLP Scholarship Program 2025 in Japan | Fully Funded
How to Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 at UWC
- Confirm Eligibility
Make sure you meet the required age, academic qualifications, and demonstrate financial need. - Apply for Admission to UWC
Submit your academic application for the 2026 academic year at the University of the Western Cape. - Gather Required Documents
Prepare academic transcripts, financial need proof, and documents showing social or economic challenges. - Complete the Scholarship Application
Fill out the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship form—available via the UWC website or the scholarship office. - Submit Before the Deadline
Send in your completed application and documents on or before the official deadline. - Wait for the Outcome
The scholarship committee will review submissions and contact selected candidates.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UWC offers fully-funded undergraduate and master’s scholarships to academically talented youth from Africa, emphasising support for marginalised groups. The program provides comprehensive financial and personal development support to cultivate future leaders.
What is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UWC?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) offers fully-funded undergraduate and master’s degree opportunities to academically talented youth from South Africa and other parts of Africa. The program aims to develop transformative leaders who will positively impact their communities.
Who is eligible to apply for the scholarship?
Eligible applicants are academically talented youth from South Africa and other parts of Africa who face economic and social barriers to higher education. The program places particular emphasis on young women, refugees, forcibly displaced youth, and persons with disabilities.
What does the scholarship cover?
The scholarship provides comprehensive support, including tuition fees, housing in a UWC residence, a monthly stipend, meal allowance, medical aid, a laptop, study materials allowance, and holistic wrap-around support programs to facilitate the scholars’ academic journey.
Which academic programs are supported by the scholarship?
For the 2026 academic year, the scholarship supports full-time undergraduate and master’s degree programs at UWC. Applicants must be applying for their first undergraduate or master’s degree; those intending to register for a second degree at the same level are ineligible.
How many scholarships are available?
Over a seven-year period, the program will provide 500 scholarships at UWC, with 250 allocated for undergraduate studies and 250 for master’s degree studies. The initiative emphasises inclusivity, with designated spaces for refugees, displaced youth, and persons with disabilities.
What is the application process?
Applicants are required to submit a complete application, including all necessary documents in English. Incomplete and duplicate applications will be rejected. Applicants are strongly advised to submit only one complete application.
Are there specific fields of study prioritised?
Applications are restricted to specific disciplines or fields of study as determined by UWC in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation. Applicants should consult UWC’s official communications for the list of eligible programs for the 2026 academic year.
What support services are provided to scholars?
In addition to financial support, scholars receive pre-arrival support, an official onboarding welcome program, personalised support throughout their studies, and access to holistic wrap-around support programs designed to ensure a successful academic experience.
What are the expectations for scholars during their studies?
Scholars are expected to meet the required academic standards of the University to retain their scholarships. They must comply with the rules and regulations of UWC as stipulated in the University calendar and are required to sign a scholarship agreement upon acceptance.
How does the program contribute to scholars’ future careers?
The program aims to equip scholars with the necessary tools and education to drive transformative change in their communities and countries. Through comprehensive support and leadership development, scholars are prepared to transition into dignified and fulfilling work after graduation.
⚠️ Disclaimer
Scholarship Union shares publicly available scholarship opportunities for informational purposes only. We are not affiliated with or endorsed by any listed institution unless clearly stated.
Listings may come from public sources or user submissions. We do not guarantee their accuracy, completeness, or availability.
To report issues or request updates, please contact us here.
Discover more from Scholarship Union
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
