Imagine getting a fully funded chance to study at one of Africa’s top universities. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria opens doors for talented African students facing money or social hurdles. This program supports undergraduate and postgraduate studies, helping young people become leaders who change their communities.
About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program started in 2014 at the University of Pretoria in South Africa. It has helped hundreds of students gain skills for Africa’s growth. Phase II began in December 2023, expanding support for more scholars.
This global effort builds leaders for sustainable change. At the university, it offers full help for undergraduate degrees and postgraduate ones like Honours and Master’s. Students get more than money; they build leadership and networks.
Core Objectives and Vision
The program aims to give quality education to bright African youth. It helps those blocked by poverty or other issues. Key goals include growing leadership skills, ethical values, entrepreneurship, and community service.
Scholars learn to boost economic growth, find jobs or start businesses, lead local projects, and join a worldwide change-maker network. Everyone commits to helping their communities after graduation.
What the Scholarship Covers
This program provides full “wraparound support” so students focus on learning. Benefits include:
- Full tuition: Pays all school fees.
- Accommodation: Rooms in university residences on campuses like Hatfield, Hillcrest, Groenkloof, Prinshof, or Onderstepoort.
- Living expenses: Money for food and daily needs.
- Leadership training: Workshops for personal growth.
- Internships: Real-world job experience.
- Community service: Required projects to help others.
- Entrepreneurship help: Tools to start businesses.
- Alumni network: Ongoing support post-graduation.
Who Can Apply
The program targets academically strong young Africans with economic or social barriers. It welcomes students with disabilities, refugees, or those displaced inside their countries. First, apply and get accepted to an eligible University of Pretoria program.
Program Components
The experience covers five main areas.
Academic Excellence
Students attend a top university with support to succeed in classes.
Leadership Development
Training covers global and local issues through structured sessions.
Community Service
Scholars join projects that make real social impact.
Career Development
Internships, mentorship, and job guidance prepare for work life.
Alumni Engagement
A strong network keeps support going after school ends.
How to Apply to the University of Pretoria
Follow these steps for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
- Choose a program: Pick a course that fits your goals.
- Gather documents: Need ID or passport, and school records like Grade 11 results for undergrad.
- Apply online: Use the university portal.
- Apply early: Better odds with quick action.
Applications for 2027 open April 1, 2027. Deadlines differ by program, like Veterinary Science. Competition is high, so start soon. Visit the program page or online application for details.
Student Life and Extra Support
The university has 29 residences across campuses for a lively student life. It offers tuition discounts, bursaries, and funding advice beyond this scholarship.
Why Choose This Program
It provides complete funding at a leading school, plus leadership focus, internships, business training, and a global network. This sets scholars up to drive real change in Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program cover?
It provides full tuition, accommodation in university residences, living expenses, leadership training, internships, community service, entrepreneurship support, and access to an alumni network.
Who is eligible to apply for this scholarship?
Academically strong young Africans facing economic or social barriers, including those with disabilities, refugees, or displaced persons, who get accepted into an eligible University of Pretoria program.
How do I apply to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?
Choose a program, gather documents like ID and school records, apply online via the university portal, and submit early since competition is high.
When do applications for 2027 open?
Applications open on April 1, 2027, with deadlines varying by program, so check the program page or online application site for details.
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