African students can apply for the fully funded Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria for 2026, covering tuition, accommodation, living costs, and leadership development.
Applications are now open for the 2026 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria (UP), offering fully funded undergraduate and postgraduate study opportunities to academically talented African students facing economic and social barriers.
The scholarship, delivered in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, is designed to develop the next generation of transformative African leaders by combining academic excellence with leadership training and community impact.
Selected scholars receive comprehensive support, including:
Full tuition fees
Accommodation
Monthly living allowance
Books and study materials
Medical aid coverage
Travel costs (where applicable)
Leadership development training
Mentorship and career support
Unlike traditional scholarships, the program emphasizes leadership, entrepreneurship, and community engagement alongside academic achievement.
The scholarship targets:
African students with strong academic records
Candidates from economically disadvantaged backgrounds
Young leaders committed to community development
Refugees, internally displaced persons, and students with disabilities (encouraged to apply)
Applicants must first apply and gain admission into an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate program at the University of Pretoria before being considered for the scholarship.
Applications are processed through the official University of Pretoria Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program portal:
Official Scholarship Page:
https://www.up.ac.za/mastercard-foundation-scholars-program
University of Pretoria Admissions Portal:
https://www.up.ac.za/online-application
Candidates must first secure admission into an academic program at UP before completing the scholarship process.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UP has been running since 2014 and entered a new expansion phase to increase access for talented young Africans across the continent. The initiative continues to play a major role in removing financial barriers to higher education while building a strong pan-African leadership network.
With full funding and structured development support, the program represents a life-changing opportunity for ambitious African students aiming to pursue world-class education in South Africa.