Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria 2027: Applications Now Open

The University of Pretoria (UP) has announced that applications for the 2027 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program are now open. The opportunity is designed to support talented African young people who face significant socio-economic challenges and wish to pursue higher education at the University of Pretoria in South Africa.

The program is particularly aimed at young Africans who demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership potential, and a commitment to community service. Eligible applicants may include refugees, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and individuals with disabilities.

If you are planning to pursue an undergraduate, Honours, or Master's degree at the University of Pretoria, this scholarship opportunity could provide an important pathway toward achieving your academic and professional goals.

About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria seeks to identify talented young Africans who have demonstrated academic excellence while experiencing significant socio-economic barriers to higher education.

Successful candidates are expected not only to perform strongly academically but also to demonstrate leadership and a genuine commitment to contributing positively to their communities.

According to the University of Pretoria, applications for the 2027 program are open to eligible students who have applied to and been accepted by the university.

Benefits of the Scholarship

The information provided by the University of Pretoria confirms that the program provides an opportunity for eligible African youth to pursue higher education through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

Applicants should carefully review the official scholarship application materials for the specific support and conditions applicable to their level of study.

The opportunity can be particularly valuable for students who have the academic ability and leadership potential to pursue higher education but face significant socio-economic challenges.

Who Can Apply?

To be considered for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria, applicants must meet the key requirements outlined by the university.

1. African Youth Facing Socio-Economic Challenges

The program targets African youth experiencing significant socio-economic challenges. This includes, among others:

• Refugees
• Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)
• Individuals with disabilities
• Other young people facing substantial barriers to accessing higher education

2. Admission to the University of Pretoria

Applicants must first apply to the University of Pretoria and be accepted before applying for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

The program is open to eligible students pursuing:

• Undergraduate studies
• Honours studies
• Master's studies

3. Strong Academic Performance

Candidates are expected to demonstrate outstanding academic performance. Maintaining a high academic average is an important component of the program's expectations.

4. Leadership and Community Service

Applicants should demonstrate leadership qualities and a commitment to community service.

This may be demonstrated through participation in:

• Community projects
• School activities
• Religious organizations
• Other initiatives that demonstrate a commitment to making a positive difference

Application Deadlines

Applicants should pay close attention to the different deadlines involved in the application process.

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

According to the information provided by the University of Pretoria, eligible candidates can apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program until:

30 June 2026

University of Pretoria Admission Deadlines

The University of Pretoria application deadlines listed in the provided information are:

• Undergraduate applications: 31 August 2026
• Postgraduate applications: 30 September 2026

Because scholarship eligibility requires applicants to have applied to and been accepted by the University of Pretoria, prospective applicants should begin the university admission process as early as possible.

Required Documents

Applicants are required to submit the relevant Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application form together with the required supporting documentation.

The University of Pretoria provides separate forms for:

• Undergraduate applicants
• Postgraduate applicants

Applicants should ensure that all required supporting documents are included when submitting their application electronically.

How to Apply

The application process involves several important steps.

Step 1: Apply to the University of Pretoria

Applicants must first submit an application to the University of Pretoria.

Apply to the University of Pretoria

After applying to UP, applicants should download and complete the relevant Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application form.

The university provides separate forms for undergraduate and postgraduate applicants.

Step 2: Complete the Scholarship Application Form

Applicants should download and complete the appropriate application form:

Undergraduate Application Form: Download Undergraduate Application Form

Postgraduate Application Form: Download Postgraduate Application Form

Step 3: Submit Your Application

Completed applications and all required supporting documents should be submitted electronically to:

Email: mcfsp@up.ac.za

For additional information, applicants can contact the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program office at:

Telephone: +27 (0)12 420 4297

Step 4: Application Review

After submission, applications will undergo a review process.

Applicants will be notified of the outcome after the selection process. The university indicates that candidates who do not receive communication should assume that their application was unsuccessful.

Step 5: Interview

Before admission into the program, eligible candidates will undergo an interview as part of the selection process.

Applicants should therefore be prepared to clearly explain their academic background, leadership experience, community involvement, challenges faced, and future aspirations.

Important Advice for Applicants

Prospective applicants should not wait until the deadline to begin their application.

Start by applying to the University of Pretoria, then carefully complete the appropriate Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application form. Make sure your supporting documents are complete and submit the application to the official email address.

Applicants should also ensure that the information provided in their application clearly demonstrates their academic excellence, leadership qualities, community involvement, and commitment to making a positive difference in society.

Official Website

For official information, application forms, requirements, and updates, applicants should visit the University of Pretoria's Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program page:

University of Pretoria Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

Applicants are strongly encouraged to rely on the official University of Pretoria website for the latest information before submitting an application.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria 2027 offers an important opportunity for talented African youth facing significant socio-economic challenges to pursue higher education.

Successful applicants are expected to demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership potential, and a commitment to community service. If you meet the eligibility requirements and are interested in studying at the University of Pretoria, begin your admission and scholarship application process as early as possible.

Do not wait until the deadline. Review the official requirements, prepare your documents, apply to the University of Pretoria, and submit your completed Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application.

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