Published: August 31, 2026;5 min read;By Scholars World

University of Western Cape Mastercard Scholarship 2027: Are you an ambitious African student with a thirst for knowledge and dreams of pursuing higher education?

The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at the University of Western Cape (UWC) presents an incredible opportunity to transform your educational journey.

The UWC Mastercard Foundation Scholarship covers tuition, accommodation, living stipends, travel costs, study materials, including a laptop for all selected candidates.

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the details of this life-changing scholarship program, the eligibility criteria, application procedure, and the incredible benefits it offers to deserving students.

Scholarship Host: University of Western Cape x Mastercard Foundation
Host Country: Africa || South Africa
Category: Undergraduate Scholarships ||  Postgraduate Scholarships || Masters Scholarships  
Benefits: Full Scholarship • Tuition Costs • Living Stipends• Visa and Airfare TicketsLaptopAccommodation
Eligibility: Students from 50+ African Countries
Deadline: September 30, 2026

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Western Cape (UWC) is committed to supporting academically talented youth from South Africa and various parts of the African continent.

For the 2026/27 Academic Year, this program is offering fully funded opportunities for young scholars to pursue undergraduate or master’s degree qualifications.

The University of the Western Cape (UWC) proudly serves as an implementing partner of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.

Since its initiation in 2012, the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship Program has been a global initiative aimed at nurturing the next generation of transformative leaders.

This is achieved by enabling highly talented, service-oriented young individuals, primarily from Africa, to access higher education and cultivate their leadership potential.

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

  • Tuition Coverage: The complete cost of tuition is covered, ensuring that financial constraints do not stand in the way of your pursuit of higher education.
  • Accommodation: An on campus accommodation is provided to foster a conducive learning environment where you can thrive academically.
  • Laptop and Other Essential Technology: You will receive a laptop, ensuring that you have the necessary tools to excel in your studies and stay connected with your coursework.
  • Hassle-Free Travel: Travel expenses are taken care of, making your journey to UWC hassle-free. 
  • Visa Assistance: Visa expenses are covered to facilitate your enrollment at UWC.
  • Comprehensive Medical Insurance: Comprehensive medical insurance is provided to ensure your well-being throughout your academic journey.
  • Leadership and Mentorship: You will benefit from leadership and mentorship training, which will enhance your personal and professional growth.

To be considered for the 2027 UWC Mastercard Foundation Scholarship, applicants must satisfy the following criteria:

  • Applicants must be no older than 26 years to pursue undergraduate studies and 30 years for the master’s degree studies;
  • Meet UWC’s minimum admissions requirements and have applied for academic admission to the University for 2026.
  • Be prepared to register for full-time undergraduate study in January 2027.
  • International applicants must apply for exemption through Universities South Africa (USAf) to determine if they meet South Africa’s minimum higher education admission requirements
  • Provide evidence that access to university studies is impeded by social and economic barriers.

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

  • Proof of parental income (e.g., payslips, social grant letters, letters from the financial aid office if previously funded by NSFAS).
  • If no proof of income is available or if unemployed, a letter of unemployment from the Department of Labour must be provided.
  • A copy of refugee or internally displaced documentation (where applicable).
  • Scholarship Application letter: Share your personal background, why you chose USIU-Africa, and your vision for the future after graduation.
  • Copies of academic documents (final high school certificates)
  • Recommendation letter from your high school teacher, head teacher, or sponsoring organization
  • One recent passport-size photograph
  • A copy of your birth certificate, national identity card, passport, or refugee travel document

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

  • Visit the official scholarship portal (Click the link below).
  • Apply for undergraduate or master’s study to the University for 2025 (admission-and-financial-aid/apply, take note of application closing dates)
  • Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program by completing the online application (preferred method)
  • If you are unable to apply online, you may download the application form and email the completed form and supporting documentation to [email protected] (the completed form and supporting documents must be submitted as one email).
  • Submit your application by the deadline.
Application Deadline: September 30, 2026