2026 Mastercard Scholarship at UP (University of Pretoria) | Fully Funded
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at University of Pretoria 2026/2027 Overview
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (MCFSP) at the University of Pretoria (UP) provides fully funded scholarships for high-achieving, economically disadvantaged African youth. Targeted at postgraduates (and select undergraduate law candidates), the program equips scholars with academic qualifications and transformative leadership skills, requiring recipients to return to their home countries upon graduation to drive positive social change.
Eligibility Criteria
- Citizenship & Residency: Must hold citizenship in an African country.
- Financial Need: Must come from an economically disadvantaged background and demonstrate verifiable financial need.
- Academic Performance: Must maintain high academic achievements and meet UP admission requirements.
- Leadership & Community Commitment: Must demonstrate strong leadership potential and active involvement in community service, volunteer work, or giving-back projects.
Scholarship Benefits & Award Package
CategoryValue & Financial SupportTuition & Housing100% full tuition coverage plus University of Pretoria residence accommodationLiving & Academic SupportComprehensive meal plan, textbooks, study materials, and a modest monthly stipendTravel & Visa ExpensesCoverage for one visa application fee and one return flight ticket for the study periodHealth BenefitsFull medical aid insurance coverage for the duration of the program
Eligible Faculties & Fields
- Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
- Faculty of Education
- Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment & Information Technology (EBIT)
- Faculty of Humanities: BPolSci in Political Studies or International Studies only
- Faculty of Law: Postgraduate applicants (all African citizens) and Undergraduate applicants (SADC citizens only)
How to Apply
- Apply for formal academic admission to an eligible degree program at the University of Pretoria.
- Download the official Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application form (undergraduate or postgraduate hard copy).
- Fill out the application completely and attach all required supporting documents (financial proof, academic records, and recommendation letters).
- Email your completed application package directly to
mcfsp@up.ac.za. - Shortlisted applicants will be contacted by the selection committee for an interview.