Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

Open to learners and students from across Africa. Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential. Commitment to returning home to apply skills and education. Available for undergraduate and postgraduate studies, including PhDs.

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Apply to The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cape Town offers transformative opportunities for young African leaders. This prestigious program aims to develop the next generation of leaders who are committed to making a positive change in their communities and across the continent. Celebrating a decade of leadership excellence, the program has significantly enriched the lives of thousands of students, providing them with a world-class education and comprehensive support.

What is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a life-changing initiative designed to empower academically talented and community-minded young people from across Africa. Launched in 2012, the program partners with leading universities, including the University of Cape Town (UCT), to provide access to quality higher education. It focuses on fostering leadership, academic excellence, and a commitment to service, enabling scholars to return to their home countries and apply their skills for societal benefit. The program has already impacted over 40,000 young Africans, creating ripple effects of positive change throughout the continent. Scholars are encouraged to combine service and policy to make a real difference, embodying the spirit of ubuntu.

Who is this Scholarship For?

This scholarship is specifically for learners and students across Africa who demonstrate leadership potential and a strong desire to contribute to their communities. The University of Cape Town is actively seeking the next generation of leaders to join this unique program. It supports both undergraduate and postgraduate African students, including those pursuing PhD studies. Scholars are expected to be committed to returning home to utilise their newly acquired skills and education. Past scholars have pursued diverse fields such as Development Studies, Criminology, Law and Society, Material Science, Materials Engineering, and Ocean and Climate Dynamics, highlighting the program's broad academic scope for those dedicated to societal impact.

What Does the Scholarship Cover?

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides students with a comprehensive and top-level education at the University of Cape Town. Beyond academic tuition, the program is designed to offer holistic support that includes leadership development, extensive career development opportunities, and invaluable mentorship experiences. Scholars also gain access to a global Alumni network, which serves as a powerful platform for continued growth and collaboration. This robust support system ensures that scholars are well-equipped not only with academic knowledge but also with the practical skills and connections needed to become catalysts for positive change in their communities and beyond.

How to Apply

Prospective applicants interested in joining the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cape Town must undertake a two-step application process. Firstly, candidates must apply for admission to the University of Cape Town. Following a successful application to UCT, candidates then proceed to apply specifically to The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Applications for the 2027 intake are currently open.

• Open to learners and students from across Africa.
• Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential.
• Commitment to returning home to apply skills and education.
• Available for undergraduate and postgraduate studies, including PhDs.