2026 MasterCard University of Pretoria Scholarships, South Africa

 The University of Pretoria (UP) in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation (MCF) is currently offering scholarships for high achieving African students interested in studying at undergraduate/postgraduate levels, commencing in September 2026. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (MCFSP) targets academically talented yet economically disadvantaged young people in Africa who will contribute to the transformation of the continent through their knowledge, skills, attitudes and values evidenced by their leadership. Community service and internships are essential components of the Program.

Scholarship Benefits: 

• Full tuition fees
• Accommodation in a UP residence
• Meals
• Books and printed material
• A modest monthly stipend
• Medical aid (Ingwe only)
• Travel costs (one return trip for the duration of the study period)
• Cost of one visa application for the duration of the study period.
  
  Scholarship Criteria: 
• Candidates should be citizens from Sub-Saharan African country.
• Applicants should come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and demonstrate financial neediness.
• Candidates should demonstrate leadership potential and ought to be involved in a giving back project eg. in a community, at school, church etc
• Academic excellence is paramount and students have to maintain a high academic average at all times.
• Candidates need to be first time applicants as first year students in the degree programme
  
  Eligible Country: African Countries
  Deadline: September 30, 2025
  Type: Undergraduate, Masters (Taught)
  Eligible Fields:
  Host Country: South Africa