2026 Mastercard Scholarship at UP: Full Guide for African Students
Imagine getting a full scholarship to study at one of Africa’s top universities. The 2026 Mastercard Scholarship at UP offers that chance to African students. This program from the University of Pretoria partners with the Mastercard Foundation to support talented young people from across Africa.
Scholarship Summary
The 2026 Mastercard Scholarship at UP targets high-achieving African students for postgraduate studies. It covers everything from tuition to living costs. Students must return home after their studies to help their communities.
Key facts include:
- Host country: South Africa
- Eligible countries: All African countries
- Level: Postgraduate (Masters)
- Deadline: September 30, 2026
- Rewards: Full funding, including stipends and travel
This scholarship aims to build leaders who can transform Africa.
Scholarship Details
The University of Pretoria works with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (MCFSP). It helps academically strong students from poor backgrounds. Scholars gain skills and leadership experience to make a difference back home.
The program starts in 2026. It focuses on young Africans with potential. Graduates must apply their knowledge in their communities.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the 2026 Mastercard Scholarship at UP, applicants need to meet these points:
- Be a citizen of an African country.
- Come from a low-income family and show financial need.
- Show leadership, like through community or school projects.
- Have strong grades and keep high academic performance.
Academic success matters most. Leadership and community involvement also count.
Benefits
This fully funded scholarship provides strong support. It covers:
- Full tuition fees.
- Dorm living on campus.
- Meals.
- Books and study materials.
- Monthly living stipend.
- Health insurance.
- One round-trip travel for the study period.
- Visa costs for one application.
Plus, scholars get a laptop. These benefits last the whole Masters program.
Available Programmes
The 2026 Mastercard Scholarship at UP funds studies in select faculties:
- 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 UP’s website for exact programs in these areas.
How to Apply
Follow these steps for the 2026 Mastercard Scholarship at UP:
- Apply for admission to an undergraduate or postgraduate program at the University of Pretoria first.
- Download the undergraduate form or postgraduate form from the UP site.
- Fill out the hard copy form.
- Email it to mcfsp@up.ac.za.
- Wait for review. Successful applicants get interview calls.
Only shortlisted candidates hear back. Start by securing UP admission. The deadline is September 30, 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the 2026 Mastercard Scholarship at UP?
African citizens from low-income families with strong grades, leadership skills, and community involvement can apply for postgraduate Masters programs.
What benefits does the scholarship offer?
It covers full tuition, accommodation, meals, books, a monthly stipend, health insurance, travel, visa costs, and a laptop for the entire program.
Which faculties and programs are available?
Programs are offered in faculties like Natural and Agricultural Sciences, Economic and Management Sciences, Humanities, Law, Education, and Engineering.
How do I apply for the scholarship?
First apply for UP admission, then download and email the Mastercard form to mcfsp@up.ac.za by September 30, 2026; shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.