2027 University of Cape Town Mastercard Scholarship for African Students: Fully Funded

University of Cape Town Mastercard Scholarship 2027 Abstract & Quick Facts

Scholarship Host: University of Cape Town x Mastercard Foundation
Host Country: Africa || South Africa
Category: Undergraduate Scholarships ||  Postgraduate Scholarships || Masters Scholarships
Benefits: Full Scholarship • Tuition Costs •Living Stipends • Visa and Travel Expenses• Accommodation•
Eligibility: Students from 50+ African Countries
Deadline: October 31, 2026

University of Cape Town Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 Details

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cape Town selects academically talented young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa to access a world-class university education, with comprehensive support systems in place to help them succeed.

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program covers the full period of your UCT programme of study. It is renewable annually subject to satisfactory academic performance and personal conduct, and to participate in the development programmes and activities which form part of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT.

University of Cape Town Mastercard Scholarship Benefits

Selected awardees receive a comprehensive financial package that removes financial barriers:

• Comprehensive financial support covering tuition fees for your chosen programme of study, a laptop, accommodation on UCT’s campuses, living expenses, medical aid, a study visa (where applicable) and annual travel to and from UCT.
• Through your chosen academic programme, you will have access to excellent teaching and a transformative and socially engaged education aimed at unleashing your potential to contribute to creating a just and fair society.
• The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides academic and peer support to ensure your academic development, growth, and success. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT also includes a series of skills programmes aimed at developing:
  • your entrepreneurial and career readiness skills;
  • your capabilities as an ethical and transformative leader; and
  • your ability to continue contributing to your community.         

On graduating from your UCT programme of study, you will join a lifelong network of changemakers as part of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Network.   

University of Cape Town Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Requirements

To be considered for the 2027 University of Cape Town Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, applicants must satisfy the following criteria:

• Academically talented, must value learning and be driven to complete their education.
• Economically disadvantaged and facing significant financial barriers to accessing education.
• Committed to giving back to their own communities once studies are completed, to return to their home countries and take a leadership role in promoting social and economic improvement.
• Future leaders committed to embracing ethical leadership to improve the lives of others.
• Commitment to community service through previous and/or past engagements with community outreach activities
• Citizens and residents of a Sub-Saharan African country.
• Wanting to study at undergraduate or postgraduate level (Masters by research and coursework or research Masters, only). Honours applicants will be considered from 2016.
• Applying to study in the fields of Commerce, Engineering and Built Environment, Health Sciences, Humanities, Law or Sciences at the University of Cape Town.
• All prospective Scholars must first be admitted to the University of Cape Town to be considered for the Scholarship. Although each academic department has its own criteria, a minimum of 60% for the Honours, or equivalent degree is the overall academic criterion required for entry into the Masters’ degree.
• Preference will be given to ‘first-generation’ students, i.e. those who are the first ones in their families to go to university.

Required Documents for University of Cape Town Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program

To complete your application, prepare the following documents in advance:

• A completed online application – all applicable sections must be filled out, including contact information, financial information, personal details and responses to essay questions.
• Financial documents – upload a scanned copy of financial documentation.
• Transcript – upload a scanned copy of your secondary school transcript and any other academic information.
• References letters– provide the names and contact details of two individuals who will serve as your referees.
• Essays and Personal Statement – Mastercard Foundation will like to know your commitment to social change, how, why and what you intend to do with the programme, your commitment to making changes in the community.

How To Apply for University of Cape Town Mastercard Scholarship 2027

The step-by-step guide to apply for the University of Cape Town Mastercard Scholarship is as follows;

• Visit the official scholarship portal (Click the link below).
• To be considered for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, you will need to hold an offer for admission to a programme of study at the University of Cape Town (UCT).
• SUubmit your application to the MASTERCARD FOUNDATION SCHOLARS PROGRAM
• Submit your application by the deadline.

Application Deadline: October 31, 2026

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