The University of Cape Town MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 for study in…
- Deadline
- 31 Oct 2026
- Level
- Undergraduate
- Degree
- Bachelor
- Host institution
- University of Cape Town
- Renewable
- No
About this scholarship
Application Deadline: 31 October 2026
Applications are now open for the 2027 University of Cape Town MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides scholarships to academically talented young Africans to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies at the University of Cape Town (UCT).
Students enrolled in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program will receive support and developmental opportunities including mentoring, leadership development, academic and life skills support, career development and entrepreneurship training. They are expected to engage in community upliftment projects and get involved in all that UCT has to offer.
The scholarship targets academically talented young Africans who demonstrate
- Strong academic performance
- Leadership potential
- Commitment to social impact
- Dedication to advancing development in Africa
- Interest in contributing to community transformation
Because scholarship selection is linked to academic admission, applicants must meet all academic entry requirements established by their chosen faculty and programme.
Benefits
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program covers the full period of your UCT programme of study. It is renewable annually subject to satisfactory academic performance and personal conduct, and to participate in the development programmes and activities which form part of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT.
- Comprehensive financial support covering tuition fees for your chosen programme of study, a laptop, accommodation on UCT’s campuses, living expenses, medical aid, a study visa (where applicable) and annual travel to and from UCT.
- Through your chosen academic programme, you will have access to excellent teaching and a transformative and socially engaged education aimed at unleashing your potential to contribute to creating a just and fair society.
- The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides academic and peer support to ensure your academic development, growth, and success. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT also includes a series of skills programmes aimed at developing:
- your entrepreneurial and career readiness skills;
- your capabilities as an ethical and transformative leader; and
- your ability to continue contributing to your community.
On graduating from your UCT programme of study, you will join a lifelong network of changemakers as part of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Network.
Application Procedure
Prospective applicants should note that applying for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a separate process from applying for academic admission to the University of Cape Town.
Students must first submit an application for admission to an eligible academic programme at UCT. Only candidates who receive an offer of admission from the university can ultimately be considered for the scholarship program.
The application process therefore involves two key steps
- Apply for admission to an eligible academic programme at UCT.
- Submit a separate application to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Applicants are strongly encouraged to review faculty-specific admission requirements and application deadlines before submitting their applications.
What's covered
Open to applicants from 54 countries
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