Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Programme for 2026

In the heart of Cape Town, the University of the Western Cape (UWC) stands as a beacon of change and opportunity. Since 2012, UWC has partnered with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program to identify and support academically gifted young Africans who face social or economic obstacles. This collaboration is about more than tuition—it’s a catalyst for leadership, innovation, and social transformation.

A Holistic Investment in Potential

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is one of the world’s most ambitious educational initiatives, with a goal of reaching 100,000 scholars by 2030. At UWC, the partnership aims to empower 500 promising scholars—split evenly between undergraduate and master’s students—by 2030 . Incoming classes are intentionally diverse: at least 70% women, 20% refugees or displaced youth, and 10% living with disabilities, with a strong representation from beyond South Africa

What the Scholarship Offers:

This fully funded scholarship goes far beyond covering tuition. Scholars benefit from a comprehensive support system:

• Pre-arrival orientation and official onboarding
• On‑campus housing in UWC residences
• A monthly stipend and meal allowance
• Medical aid and a laptop + study-material allowance
• Personalized academic, leadership, and psychosocial support

This well-rounded approach—known as the Wrap Around Support Program (WASP)—ensures scholars don’t just survive but thrive academically and personally

Fields of Study & Eligibility

For the 2026 academic year, UWC is accepting applications for both undergraduate and master’s scholarships across several disciplines:

Undergrad: Arts & Humanities, Economic & Management Sciences, Education (Math & Science Foundation Phase), Natural Sciences

Master’s: Applied Linguistics, Gender Justice, Migration Studies, Public Health, Governance & Human Rights, Development Studies, Info Sciences, and various natural sciences

Applicants must be under 26 years old for undergrads and 30 for postgrads, meet UWC admission criteria, enrol full-time by January 2026, and demonstrate that their access to education is limited by socio-economic factors. Plus, second-degree applicants aren’t eligible

How to Apply?

APPLY FOR THE MASTERCARD FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME FOR 2026 HERE

Transformative Community Impact

Beyond funding, this program weaves scholars into a global network of changemakers—over 40,000 strong globally—creating lifelong connections, leadership opportunities, and a shared mission. The flagship “Baobab Summit” and leadership workshops further equip students to move from campus to career as transformative leaders.

Why This Matters

The Mastercard Foundation–UWC partnership is a powerful example of education as a catalyst for equitable social change. By breaking down financial and systemic barriers, it equips scholars with more than credentials—it empowers purpose-driven individuals ready to tackle real-world issues in health, governance, equity, and innovation.

If you’re a driven student facing economic challenges, this program is your ticket to a transformative educational journey. For blog publishers and higher‑ed advocates, it’s a case study in how strategic partnerships can drive meaningful development and social mobility in Africa.

CLOSING DATE: 31 AUGUST 2025

EDUPSTAIRS IS A REGISTERED NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. EDUPSTAIRS DOES NOT, IN ANY WAY OR FORM, SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. PLEASE BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR SCAM/FRAUD ALERT PAGE HERE