2026 Mastercard Scholarship at UP: Fully Funded Master’s for African Students
Are you an African student dreaming of a fully funded master’s degree in South Africa? The 2026 Mastercard Scholarship at UP offers a life-changing chance for talented individuals from across the continent. This program, run by the University of Pretoria in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, targets bright students from low-income backgrounds who show strong leadership skills.
Scholarship Overview
The 2026 Mastercard Scholarship at UP is open to African citizens pursuing postgraduate studies. It supports those admitted to select programs at the University of Pretoria. The goal is to build leaders who will return home and drive positive change in their communities.
Key facts include:
- Host country: South Africa
- Level: Postgraduate (master’s degrees)
- Eligible nationalities: All African countries
- Deadline: September 30, 2026
This fully funded opportunity covers everything from tuition to daily living needs, making higher education accessible.
Program Details
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program partners with the University of Pretoria to help economically disadvantaged African youth. Scholars must complete their studies and go back to their home countries to apply what they learn. The program starts in 2026 and focuses on academic talent combined with real-world leadership.
Applicants need to show they can make a difference through past involvement in community projects, school activities, or similar efforts. High grades are a must, and students agree to keep up strong performance throughout.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the 2026 Mastercard Scholarship at UP, meet these requirements:
- Be a citizen of an African country.
- Come from a low-income family and prove financial need.
- Show leadership through past projects, like community service, school groups, or church work.
- Have excellent academic records and plan to maintain them.
First, gain admission to a qualifying program at the University of Pretoria. Only those provisionally accepted can apply for the scholarship.
What the Scholarship Covers
Successful applicants receive full support for their master’s program. Benefits include:
- Full tuition fees.
- On-campus housing in a UP residence.
- Three meals per day.
- Books and study materials.
- A monthly living stipend.
- Health insurance.
- One round-trip travel ticket.
- Visa application costs.
This package removes financial barriers so scholars can focus on their studies and growth.
Eligible Faculties and Programs
The scholarship funds master’s degrees in specific areas. Qualifying faculties are:
- Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences.
- Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences.
- Faculty of Humanities (only BPolSci in Political Studies or International Studies).
- Faculty of Law (undergrad for SADC countries, postgrad for all Africans).
- Faculty of Education.
- Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment & Information Technology.
Check the University of Pretoria website for exact program lists under these faculties.
Application Steps
Follow these steps to apply for the 2026 Mastercard Scholarship at UP:
- Apply for admission to an undergraduate or postgraduate program at the University of Pretoria. Use their online portals for undergrad or postgrad applications.
- Download the hard-copy application forms: undergraduate form or postgraduate form.
- Fill out the form completely.
- Email your application to [email protected].
- Wait for the review process. Shortlisted candidates will hear back and may face an interview.
For more details, visit the official page: How to Apply.
Important Deadline
Submit all materials by September 30, 2026. Late applications will not be accepted. Start early to secure your spot in this competitive program.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the 2026 Mastercard Scholarship at UP?
You must be an African citizen from a low-income family, show strong leadership and academics, and get provisional admission to a qualifying master’s program at the University of Pretoria.
What does the scholarship cover?
It provides full tuition, on-campus housing, three meals a day, books, a monthly stipend, health insurance, a round-trip ticket, and visa costs.
Which faculties offer eligible programs?
Eligible faculties include Natural and Agricultural Sciences, Economic and Management Sciences, Humanities (specific politics programs), Law, Education, and Engineering, Built Environment & Information Technology.
What is the application deadline and process?
The deadline is September 30, 2026. First apply for UP admission, download the form, fill it out, and email it to [email protected].