South Africa: The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Is Looking for You

What the report says

Applications are open for the 2027 intake of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cape Town, according to AllAfrica’s reporting of a UCT notice published on 21 August 2026. The program is aimed at academically strong students who face significant financial or social barriers to higher education, and it is offered through UCT in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation.

The scholarship is available to applicants seeking a first bachelor’s degree, as well as eligible postgraduate diploma, honours degree, or master’s study at UCT. UCT says candidates must come from an African country, including South Africa, and must first receive an offer of admission before being considered for the scholarship.

The support package described by UCT includes tuition, accommodation, a laptop, living expenses, medical aid, and travel costs, along with visa support where needed. The program also includes academic mentoring, leadership development, career readiness, entrepreneurship training, internships, community engagement, and access to an alumni network.

AllAfrica reported that undergraduate applications for the 2027 intake are closed, while postgraduate scholarship applications remain open. The deadlines listed are 30 September 2026 for bachelor’s applicants and 31 October 2026 for eligible postgraduate applicants. The announcement is significant because the program can broaden access to one of South Africa’s major universities for students who might otherwise be unable to afford higher education.