Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 (Fully Funded)
If you are looking to study in South Africa with full financial support, the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship is a strong opportunity for international students. The scholarship supports fully funded study programs in South African universities across different academic fields. This guide explains the key details of the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026, including the benefits, eligibility requirements, required documents, and the step-by-step application process.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026-2027 is available for undergraduate and master’s studies. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program (MCFSP) supports academically talented but financially disadvantaged young people in Africa who are expected to contribute to the continent’s development through their knowledge, leadership, skills, values, and positive mindset.
Community service and internships form an important part of the program. The MCFSP provides a full scholarship to selected students who have received provisional admission to pursue a postgraduate degree at the University of Pretoria (UP). After completing their studies, graduates are expected to return to their home countries and contribute to their communities. Applicants must not already have a master’s degree or an 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 on the selected course
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
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Application Deadline
The application deadline for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship:
- Undergraduate: 31 August 2026
- Postgraduate: 30 September 2026
Scholarship Coverage
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship is a fully funded scholarship for Africans. It covers:
- Accommodation and meals in a UP residence or UP-accredited accommodation
- Full tuition fees
- A modest monthly allowance
- Medical aid for the full duration of study
- Textbooks and printed study materials
- VISA costs
- Leadership development opportunities
- Reasonable travel costs, including a flight ticket to and from your home country
- Academic advising and counselling support
Eligibility Criteria for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship
To qualify for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Required Language: English
- Eligible Countries: African countries
- You must have been admitted to a degree program at UP. You will need your student number to complete the MCFSP application, and the application should be submitted together with your academic records and other supporting documents.
- The scholarship is open to young Africans interested in studying at postgraduate level.
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 need internet access and an email address that you check regularly. Once you submit your online application, a student number (EMPLID) will be sent to your email as confirmation that your application has been received.
- Alternatively, you may 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 reviewed by members of the relevant faculty, and applicants will be notified of the outcome. Postgraduate applicants must 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 sent to [email protected]. Tel: 012 420 4297.
Website
To find out more about the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, please visit the official websites: