Are you an African student dreaming of a master’s degree in South Africa? The 2026 Mastercard Scholarship at UP offers a fully funded chance to study at the University of Pretoria. This program supports talented young people from across Africa.
Scholarship Summary
The Mastercard Scholarship at UP targets high-achieving African students from low-income backgrounds. It partners with the Mastercard Foundation to cover full costs for postgraduate studies starting in 2026. Students must return home after graduation to help their communities.
Key facts include:
- Host country: South Africa
- Level: Postgraduate (master’s degrees)
- Eligible countries: All African nations
- Deadline: September 30, 2026
- Rewards: Full tuition, living stipend, laptop, and more
Program Details
The University of Pretoria (UP) works with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (MCFSP). It helps academically strong students who face financial barriers. Scholars gain skills to lead change in Africa.
Applicants need provisional admission to a UP postgraduate program first. The scholarship focuses on leadership and community service. Graduates commit to giving back through projects in their home areas.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the 2026 Mastercard Scholarship at UP, meet these criteria:
- Be a citizen of an African country.
- Show financial need from an economically disadvantaged background.
- Display leadership, such as through school, church, or community projects.
- Hold strong academic records and plan to keep high grades.
UP reviews applications based on these points. Only those who fit all requirements move forward.
Scholarship Benefits
This fully funded award covers everything scholars need:
- Full tuition fees.
- On-campus accommodation.
- Meals.
- Books and study materials.
- Monthly living stipend.
- Medical aid.
- One return travel ticket.
- Visa costs for the study period.
- A laptop.
These supports last the full master’s program length.
Available Programmes
The scholarship funds degrees in select faculties at UP:
- Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences.
- Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences.
- Faculty of Humanities (BPolSci in Political Studies or International Studies only).
- Faculty of Law (undergrad for SADC countries, postgrad for all Africans).
- Faculty of Education.
- Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment & Information Technology.
Check UP’s website for exact program lists.
How to Apply
Follow these steps for the 2026 Mastercard Scholarship at UP:
- Apply for admission to a postgraduate program at UP.
- Download the postgraduate application form from UP’s site.
- Complete the form and gather required documents.
- Email your application to [email protected].
- Wait for review; shortlisted candidates get interview invites.
Only selected applicants hear back. Start early to meet the September 30, 2026 deadline. Visit UP’s Mastercard page for full details.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the 2026 Mastercard Scholarship at UP?
African citizens from low-income backgrounds with strong academics, leadership experience, and provisional admission to a UP master’s program can apply.
What benefits does the scholarship offer?
It covers full tuition, on-campus housing, meals, books, a monthly stipend, medical aid, a laptop, return travel, and visa costs for the entire program.
Which faculties and programs are available?
Degrees in Natural and Agricultural Sciences, Economic and Management Sciences, specific Humanities programs, Law, Education, and Engineering, Built Environment & IT are funded.
How do I apply for the scholarship?
Apply for UP postgraduate admission first, then download and email the scholarship form with documents to [email protected] by September 30, 2026.
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