Mastercard Scholarships at University of Pretoria | 2025/2026

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Calling all ambitious young Africans! 📢

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria (UP) is a game-changer. Since January 2014, this partnership has been offering comprehensive support – from funding to mentorship – for high-achieving students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate (Honours and Masters) degrees.

This program is specifically designed for academically gifted individuals facing economic and social barriers, including those with disabilities and displaced persons/refugees. It’s about nurturing future leaders who will drive positive change in Africa through their knowledge, skills, and values. Expect enriching experiences like community service, internships, and entrepreneurship development.

Eligibility for Application:

To be considered for this program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Possess a record of outstanding academic achievement and commit to maintaining a high academic average as a requirement of the program.
2. Be admitted to an Undergraduate, Honours, or Masters program at the University of Pretoria. The application period closes on June 30, 2025.
3. Be an African youth who experiences significant socio-economic disadvantages, including but not limited to refugee status, internal displacement (IDP), or disability, and who is pursuing higher education.
4. Demonstrate leadership aptitude and a commitment to serving their community through active involvement in projects, school-based initiatives, or religious organizations, evidencing a desire to create positive change.

University of Pretoria and Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Application Process

The application deadline for both admission to the University of Pretoria and the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is June 30, 2025.

Students interested in pursuing studies at the University of Pretoria and wishing to be considered for The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program must adhere to the following application procedure:

Step 1: Apply to the University of Pretoria

To initiate your application, you must first apply for admission to the University of Pretoria. Subsequently, download and complete the hard copy of the appropriate application form provided below:

• Undergraduate Application (2026): open here
• Postgraduate Application (2026): Open the application form

Step 2: Submit Your Application Electronically

Submit your completed application form, along with all necessary supporting documentation, via email (http://mcfsp@up.ac.za). Ensure all required documents are included with your electronic submission.

Step 3: Application Review and Outcome Notification

Following the submission of your application, it will undergo a thorough review process. You will be informed of the outcome in due course. Please note that if you do not receive communication from us regarding your application, you should assume that it was not successful.

Step 4: Interview Process for Eligible Candidates

Prior to final admission into the Program, all candidates deemed eligible after the initial review will be required to participate in an interview as part of the final selection process.

For details, see the Official Website.