Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) 2025/2026 – Fully Funded Opportunities
Are you a young African dreamer looking for a chance to study at one of South Africa’s most vibrant universities? The University of the Western Cape (UWC), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation, is once again offering the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program for the 2025/2026 academic year.
This fully funded scholarship
targets talented yet economically disadvantaged youth, including young
women, refugees, forcibly displaced persons, and students living with
disabilities, and equips them with the education, leadership skills, and
community spirit needed to transform Africa’s future.
If you are ready to begin your
journey to world-class higher education, this guide has everything you
need: eligibility, benefits, fields of study, application deadlines, and how to
apply successfully.
What
is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UWC?
The Mastercard Foundation
Scholars Program is a global initiative that has supported over 45,000
young Africans to access quality higher education. At the University of
the Western Cape, this program provides full financial support for
both undergraduate and master’s degree students who would otherwise be
unable to afford university.
But it’s more than just money.
Scholars also benefit from:
- Leadership development training
- Mentorship & coaching
- Career guidance & internship placements
- A supportive scholar community that empowers you to “give
back” to your community
Why
Choose UWC in South Africa?
Founded in 1959, the University
of the Western Cape is one of South Africa’s leading institutions, globally
recognized for its commitment to equity, diversity, and social justice.
Located in Cape Town, a city rich in culture and opportunities, UWC
offers:
- High-quality, internationally recognized degrees
- A diverse student community from across Africa
- Research-driven programs addressing Africa’s real
challenges
- Access to world-class libraries, labs, and technology
For Mastercard Foundation Scholars,
UWC is not just a university—it’s a launchpad for future leaders of Africa.
Scholarship
Benefits – What Does it Cover?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars
Program at UWC is 100% fully funded. If selected, you will receive:
- Full tuition
and registration fees
- On-campus
accommodation
- Meal
allowance & monthly stipend
- Laptop and
study materials
- Medical aid
and health insurance
- Travel costs
(where applicable)
- Academic,
psychosocial, and career support throughout your studies
This means you can fully focus on
your academics and leadership journey without worrying about finances.
Eligible
Fields of Study
The scholarship is available for
specific undergraduate and master’s programs that align with Africa’s
development needs.
Undergraduate
Degrees
- Arts & Humanities:
History, Linguistics, Sociology, Women’s & Gender Studies
- Economic & Management Sciences: Economics, Information Sciences, Public
Administration
- Education:
Mathematics & Science Education, Foundation Phase Teaching
- Natural Sciences:
Biological, Computational, Mathematical, and Physical Sciences
Master’s
Degrees
- Arts & 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
Related Topics:
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, make sure you meet
these requirements:
Undergraduate
Applicants
- Must be 26 years or younger at the time of
application
- Meet UWC’s admission requirements for 2026
- Be ready to start full-time studies in January 2026
- Must demonstrate financial need and social challenges
- Not already registered for a second undergraduate
degree
Master’s
Applicants
- Must be 30 years or younger at the time of
application
- Meet UWC’s postgraduate entry requirements
- International students must have qualifications verified by SAQA
- Must begin full-time study in January 2026
- Not already registered for a second master’s degree
Application Timeline & Deadlines
- Application Open:
June 2025
- Application Deadline:
31 August 2025 (some sources note 30 September 2025 – apply
early to be safe!)
- Program Start Date:
January 2026
Important: You must apply for admission
to UWC first to obtain a UWC application number, which is required
for the scholarship form.
How to Apply
Step
1 – Apply for Admission to UWC
- Visit the official UWC admissions portal and select
your desired program.
- Submit your application and receive your UWC
application number.
Step
2 – Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
- Complete the scholarship application online using your
UWC application number.
- Prepare and upload the following documents:
- Proof of household income (or unemployment)
- ID/Passport
- Academic transcripts & certificates
- Motivation statement (why you deserve this
scholarship)
- Refugee/displacement documentation (if applicable)
Step
3 – Await Selection & Interview
Shortlisted candidates may be called
for an interview or further assessment before final selection.
Contact Information
For more details and assistance,
contact:
- Undergraduate Applicants: qmhlauli@uwc.ac.za
- Master’s Applicants: ssganda@uwc.ac.za
Official website: University of the Western Cape – Mastercard Foundation
Scholars Program
🌟 Why You Should Apply
The Mastercard Foundation
Scholars Program at UWC 2025/2026 is more than just a scholarship—it is a life-changing
opportunity. It gives you access to world-class education, leadership
training, and a supportive network of young changemakers across Africa.
If you are a talented African
youth facing financial and social challenges, this is your chance to rise,
lead, and transform your community.
👉 Don’t wait until the last minute. Start your application
today and secure your future at UWC in 2026!
💬 Have questions or need guidance? Join our student
communities for updates, tips, and peer support:
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