The University of Pretoria (UP) has opened applications for the 2027 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, offering an opportunity for eligible African students facing significant socio-economic challenges to pursue higher education.
The program is designed to support talented young people who demonstrate strong academic potential, leadership qualities and a commitment to community service. Applications are open to students seeking admission to undergraduate, Honours and Master’s programmes at the University of Pretoria.
Who Can Apply?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria is aimed primarily at African youth experiencing significant socio-economic barriers to higher education. The program particularly recognizes applicants from vulnerable or underserved backgrounds, including:
• Refugees
• Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs)
• Individuals with disabilities
• Young people facing significant socio-economic challenges
Applicants must first apply to and be accepted by the University of Pretoria before submitting an application for consideration under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Academic Requirements
Successful applicants are expected to demonstrate outstanding academic performance. A strong academic record and high average are important components of the selection process.
In addition to academic achievement, candidates are expected to demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to serving their communities. Evidence of leadership may come from participation in community projects, school activities, religious organizations or other initiatives through which applicants have demonstrated a desire to create positive change.
The program therefore seeks candidates who combine academic excellence with leadership, community engagement and a clear commitment to contributing to society.
Program Levels
The 2027 intake is available to students applying for:
• Undergraduate programmes
• Honours programmes
• Master’s programmes
Applicants must meet the University of Pretoria’s admission requirements for their chosen programme in addition to meeting the eligibility criteria of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
Application Deadlines
The University of Pretoria has separate deadlines for university applications depending on the level of study.
Undergraduate applications: 31 August 2026
Postgraduate applications: 30 September 2026
The university’s Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program page also states that eligible candidates can apply for consideration for the scholarship programme. Applicants are encouraged to complete the required university admission process well before the relevant deadline.
How To Apply
The application process consists of several important steps.
Step 1: Apply to the University of Pretoria
Applicants must first submit an application for admission to the University of Pretoria through the university’s application system. After initiating the university application, candidates should download and complete the relevant Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application form.
Separate forms are provided for undergraduate and postgraduate applicants.
Step 2: Submit the Scholarship Application
After completing the relevant form, applicants must submit it electronically to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria. Applicants should ensure that all required supporting documents are included with the submission.
Step 3: Application Review
Submitted applications will undergo a review process. Candidates will subsequently be notified of the outcome. The university notes that applicants who do not receive further communication should consider their application unsuccessful.
Step 4: Interview
Eligible candidates who progress through the selection process will be required to participate in an interview before admission into the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
What The Program Looks For
The scholarship seeks more than academic excellence. Candidates are expected to demonstrate a combination of academic ability, leadership potential and community commitment.
Strong applicants should therefore be able to demonstrate:
• Excellent academic performance
• Leadership qualities
• Commitment to community service
• A desire to make a positive social impact
• Significant socio-economic need or barriers to higher education
• Admission or acceptance to an eligible University of Pretoria programme
The program provides an important pathway for talented African youth who may otherwise face substantial barriers to accessing higher education.
Important Application Information
Applicants should complete the University of Pretoria admission application first before submitting the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application. Meeting the scholarship criteria does not replace the university’s normal admission requirements.
The application process requires applicants to submit the appropriate programme-specific form and supporting documentation electronically. Candidates should carefully review the requirements and ensure that their applications are complete before submission.
The University of Pretoria encourages eligible candidates to take advantage of this opportunity to pursue higher education while developing their academic, leadership and community-impact potential.
Application Deadline Summary
Undergraduate: 31 August 2026
Postgraduate: 30 September 2026
Study levels: Undergraduate, Honours and Master’s
Target group: African youth facing significant socio-economic challenges
Host institution: University of Pretoria, South Africa
Intake: 2027
Interested applicants should begin the university admission process as early as possible and carefully follow the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application instructions.
VISIT OFFICIAL WEBSITE TO APPLY
