Accepting applications Fully Funded

University of Pretoria Mastercard Scholarship 2026-27 in Africa (Fully Funded)

Last updated Apr 10, 2026

Deadline

2026-08-31

Country

South Africa

Level

undergraduate, masters

Organization

University of Pretoria (in partnership with Mastercard Foundation)

Field

Public Management and Policy, Accounting Sciences, Advanced Data Analytics, Agricultural Economics, Auditing, Business Management, Econometrics, Economics, Financial Management Sciences, Human Resource Management, Industrial Psychology, Informatics, Marketing Management

Funding

fully funded

Overview

This is the University of Pretoria Mastercard Scholarship for African students, offered in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. It provides fully funded opportunities for high-achieving young Africans to pursue undergraduate, Honours, and Masters degrees at the University of Pretoria in South Africa. The program aims to develop transformative leadership qualities and contribute to the social and economic transformation of the African continent.

Coverage

The scholarship is fully funded and provides comprehensive support. It covers full tuition fees, accommodation expenses, and a maintenance allowance. Scholars are also encouraged to participate in work-based placements and mentorship activities, and receive wraparound support.

Eligibility

This scholarship is open to high-achieving young African students, including those facing economic and social barriers, living with disabilities, or who are internally displaced persons/refugees. Applicants must be pursuing or intending to pursue an undergraduate, Honours, or Masters degree. Ethiopian students are eligible as they are African citizens.

Requirements

Not clearly stated. The program targets academically talented young people who will contribute to the transformation of the continent through their knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values, evidenced by their leadership. Community service, internships, and entrepreneurship are essential components of the program.

How to apply

The provided content states that candidates must follow specific steps to apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarships 2026-27 in Africa, but these steps are not detailed in the aggregator page. It is highly recommended to visit the official University of Pretoria Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program website for complete and up-to-date application instructions.

Notes

The scholarship is for the academic session 2026-2027. Upon completion of their studies, scholars are expected to commit to giving back in ways that enhance the economic growth and social development of their communities and the continent. The University of Pretoria is a public research university established in 1908, ranked between 551–570 globally.

Source & Verification

Host organization: University of Pretoria (in partnership with Mastercard Foundation)

Original source: BrightScholarship

Official application page: https://www.up.ac.za/mastercard-foundation-scholars-program/

Verify the deadline, eligibility, and document list on the official website before applying.

How to Apply

1

Read the full requirements

Visit the official application page and read all eligibility criteria carefully before investing time in the application.
2

Gather your documents

Collect transcripts, certificates, and references. Official copies may require apostille — start this process early.
3

Request recommendation letters

Contact your referees at least 4–6 weeks before the deadline. Brief them on the scholarship and your goals.
4

Write your motivation letter

Be specific about your goals, why you chose this program, and your plan to contribute to Ethiopia after completing your studies.
5

Proofread and submit early

Submit at least 3–5 days before the deadline. Technical issues are common — never submit on the last day.