Call For Applications: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 for – MSME Africa
Call For Applications: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 for – MSME Africa
Call For Applications: Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 for – MSME Africa. The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) is now accepting applications from young Africans. This prestigious initiative, part of the Mastercard Foundation’s global effort to develop transformative leaders, provides full scholarships for both undergraduate and master’s degrees.
Launched in 2012, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program targets high-achieving youth who face economic and social barriers to higher education. The program focuses on providing inclusive access for young women, refugees, displaced persons, and individuals with disabilities across the African continent.
The 2026 intake at UWC presents a fully funded opportunity to gain a world-class education while benefiting from structured academic, personal, and career development support.
Background & Job Description
About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a global education initiative aimed at developing young leaders who will contribute to social and economic transformation in Africa. Through partnerships with universities across the globe, the program has enabled thousands of youth to access quality tertiary education.
At UWC, the program supports students from South Africa and the broader African continent. It equips them with the tools, knowledge, and networks needed to lead change within their communities and countries.
The 2026 program cycle offers two academic tracks:
- Undergraduate degrees
- Master’s degrees (Postgraduate level)
These fully funded scholarships cover all tuition fees, living costs, study materials, healthcare, and other academic necessities.
Objectives of the Program
- To enable access to higher education for economically disadvantaged but academically talented African youth.
- To develop leaders with a commitment to social justice, community development, and ethical leadership.
- To build a pan-African network of changemakers working toward inclusive and sustainable development.
Tasks
Selected Mastercard Foundation Scholars at UWC will engage in:
Academic Study
- Enroll in full-time undergraduate or master’s programs in eligible disciplines.
- Participate in academic enrichment sessions, mentorship, and skills development.
Personal and Professional Development
- Receive holistic support designed to enhance personal growth, career readiness, and leadership abilities.
- Participate in onboarding programs, career planning sessions, and community service opportunities.
Leadership and Service Learning
- Take part in social impact projects, workshops, and community development activities aimed at cultivating civic responsibility.
- Collaborate with other scholars and alumni across Africa to drive collective impact.
Qualifications
Education and Certification
Undergraduate Applicants Must:
- Be 26 years of age or younger by January 2026.
- Meet UWC’s academic admission requirements. Full program details and requirements are available at www.uwc.ac.za.
- Apply for admission to a qualifying undergraduate program at UWC before submitting a scholarship application.
- For international applicants: apply for exemption through Universities South Africa (USAf) to determine eligibility for admission.
Master’s Applicants Must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field.
- Apply for admission to a qualifying UWC postgraduate program for 2026.
Experience
No formal work experience is required. However, applicants must:
- Demonstrate academic merit and a strong commitment to service and leadership.
- Provide evidence that financial or social barriers have hindered access to higher education.
- Show potential for leadership, innovation, and impact within their communities.
Additional Information
Eligible Fields of Study
Applicants must apply to and be accepted into one of the following approved disciplines at UWC:
Undergraduate Programs:
- Arts and Humanities: History, Linguistics, Sociology, Women’s and Gender Studies
- Economic & Management Sciences: Economics, Information Systems, Public Administration
- Education: Mathematics and Science Education, Foundation Phase Education
- Natural Sciences: Biological, Computational, Mathematical, and Physical Sciences
Master’s Programs:
- Arts and Humanities: Applied Linguistics, History, Gender Justice, Migration Studies, Sociology for Development
- Community & Health Sciences: Public Health
- Economic & Management Sciences: Development Studies, Information Sciences
- Law: Governance and Human Rights
- Natural Sciences: Biological, Computational, Mathematical, and Physical Sciences
Benefits of the Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars at UWC will receive a fully funded scholarship, including:
- Full tuition and registration fees
- Monthly stipend and meal allowance
- Medical aid coverage
- Laptop and academic materials
- On-campus housing
- Pre-arrival support
- Onboarding orientation
- Access to mentorship, personalized academic advising, and career development support
- Participation in leadership training, alumni networks, and impact initiatives
Application Process
Step 1: Apply to UWC
- Visit the UWC official admissions page: Apply Here
- Submit an academic application for the 2026 intake
- Receive a UWC student application number (this is required for the scholarship application)
Step 2: Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
- Use the UWC application number to access and complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program online application form
- Provide supporting documents, including academic records, motivation letter, proof of financial need, and identification
Applicants are encouraged to apply early and ensure both steps are completed before the scholarship deadline.
Apply Now for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UWC
If you are a young African with strong academic ability, a commitment to leadership, and a desire to make a difference, the 2026 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of the Western Cape offers an exceptional opportunity to access fully funded higher education.
Take the next step in your leadership journey and become part of a powerful community of change agents shaping Africa’s future.
Deadline to Apply: Check UWC’s application portal and apply early for academic admission. Only those admitted can apply for the scholarship.
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Disclaimer
This listing was created by an independent job and scholarship alert service and is not affiliated with the Mastercard Foundation or UWC. All applications must be submitted directly via the official UWC portals.
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