Overview
Applications are now open for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) in South Africa. This prestigious, fully funded scholarship is designed to empower young African leaders by providing access to quality education at one of South Africa’s top universities.
The program targets academically talented students who face financial, social, or disability-related barriers to higher education. For the 2026 intake, selected scholars will receive full funding to pursue either an undergraduate or master’s degree at UWC.
Scholarship Summary
- Deadline: August 31, 2025
- Country: South Africa
- University: University of the Western Cape (UWC)
- Funding: Fully Funded (Undergraduate and Master’s)
- Scholarship Provider: Mastercard Foundation
Scholarship Benefits
Selected scholars will receive comprehensive financial and academic support, including:
- Full tuition coverage
- Monthly living stipend and meal allowance
- Free on-campus housing
- Medical aid and health insurance
- Laptop and data support
- Travel expenses and study materials
- Academic support, mentorship, and personalized advising
- Pre-arrival support and orientation program
- Access to leadership development and career services
Who Can Apply?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UWC is open to:
- Students from South Africa and other African countries
- Young people with demonstrated financial need
- Refugees, internally displaced persons, and students with disabilities
- Female students and those committed to social change
Apply Also
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Eligibility Requirements
Undergraduate Applicants:
- Must meet UWC’s minimum admission requirements
- Must apply for full-time undergraduate study beginning in January 2026
- International applicants must validate credentials through SAQA
- Must demonstrate that access to education is limited by social and economic factors
Master’s Applicants:
- Must be 30 years old or younger
- Must meet UWC’s graduate admission requirements
- Must have a valid undergraduate degree (SAQA-aligned)
- Must show evidence of socio-economic hardship
- Must be prepared to begin full-time studies in January 2026
How to Apply
Step 1: Apply for Admission to UWC
- You must first submit an academic application for your intended program.
- Only applicants with a valid UWC application number can apply for the scholarship.
Step 2: Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
- After applying to UWC, complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application form.
- Apply online via the official application portal or UWC’s scholarship page.
Important Dates
- Application Deadline: August 31, 2025
- Program Start: January 2026
Apply Now
Visit the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program page or the University of the Western Cape admissions portal to begin your application.
