If you are planning to study in South Africa with financial support, the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship is one of the best opportunities available for international students. This scholarship provides fully funded programs at South African universities across a wide range of fields. In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, including its benefits, eligibility criteria, required documents, and a detailed step-by-step application process to help you apply successfully.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026-2027 is offered for undergraduate and master’s studies. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (MCFSP) targets academically brilliant yet economically disadvantaged young individuals in Africa who will contribute to the transformation of the continent through their knowledge, attitudes, skills, and values, as demonstrated by their leadership.
Community service and internships are essential components of the program. The MCFSP offers a full scholarship to selected students who have been provisionally admitted to pursue a postgraduate degree at the University of Pretoria (UP). Upon completing their studies, graduates must return to their home countries and give back to their communities. Applicants should not already hold a master’s degree or equivalent qualification.
Scholarship Summary
- Level of Study: Undergraduate, Master’s
- Institution(s): University of Pretoria
- Study Destination: South Africa
- Opportunity Focus Areas: See the list below
- Program Period: Depends upon the selected course
- Deadline: 30 September 2025
Courses Offered
- Faculty of Engineering – continuing students are eligible to apply
- Industrial Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Food Science and Technology
- Agricultural Economics / Business Management
- Animal Science
- Plant Pathology
- Applied Plant and Soil Sciences
- Faculty of Humanities
- Humanities PolSci (Political Studies)
- PolSci (International Studies)
- Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
- Accounting Sciences
- Financial Sciences
- Economics
- Informatics
- Agribusiness Management
Scholarship Coverage
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship for Africans. It will cover:
- Accommodation and meals in a UP residence or UP-accredited accommodation
- Full tuition fees
- A modest monthly stipend
- Medical aid covers the duration of the study
- Textbooks and printed material
- VISA costs
- Leadership development opportunities
- Reasonable travel costs (including flight ticket) to and from your home
- Academic advising and counselling support
Eligibility Criteria for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship
To qualify for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, the candidate must fulfil all of the following requirements:
- Required Language: English
- Eligible Countries: African countries
- You must have been admitted to a degree at UP. You will need your student number to complete the MCFSP application, which must be accompanied by your academic records and other supporting documents
- Open to young Africans who are interested in studying at postgraduate levels.
How to Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship?
Please follow the application instructions below to apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship:
(1) You may apply online here.
- To use the online application system, you will need Internet access and an email address that you can access regularly. As soon as you submit your online application, a student number (EMPLID) will be sent to this email address as confirmation of receipt.
- Alternatively, you can submit a hard copy of your application form to the following address:
University of Pretoria
Student Service Centre, Hatfield
Pretoria 0028, South Africa
(2) The application will be evaluated by members of the relevant faculty, and you will be informed of the outcome. Postgraduate applicants are required to have their certificates verified by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). Please visit www.saqa.org.za
(3) Download application forms for the MCFSP from the links below:
Application inquiries can be directed to mcfsp@up.ac.za. Tel: 012 420 4297.
Website
To learn more about the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, please visit the official websites: