University of the Western Cape – Fully Funded for Students
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) in South Africa offers an exceptional, fully funded opportunity for academically talented African students. This prestigious scholarship is more than just financial aid—it is a transformative leadership program aimed at empowering young people who face social, economic, or physical challenges that hinder access to higher education.
This highly competitive scholarship supports full-time undergraduate and master’s studies, with a strong focus on equity and inclusion. The program encourages applications from young women, refugees, and students living with disabilities. Its goal is to shape a new generation of ethical leaders committed to driving positive change across Africa.
What Is the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UWC?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UWC is part of a larger, Pan-African initiative to provide quality education to young people who show academic promise but lack the financial means to pursue higher education. It offers full financial support, as well as access to leadership training, mentorship, wellness programs, and academic resources.
Hosted at one of South Africa’s leading public universities, the program helps scholars overcome financial and social obstacles while equipping them with the tools needed to become impactful leaders in their communities and countries.
Scholarship Coverage and Benefits
The Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 offers a comprehensive support package that ensures scholars can focus entirely on their academic and leadership development without financial stress. Benefits include:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Monthly living stipend and meal support
- On-campus accommodation at UWC residence halls
- Health insurance and medical support
- Access to essential academic materials and technology tools
- Support for travel arrangements and settling-in expenses
- Participation in an official orientation and onboarding program
- Continuous personal, academic, and leadership development support
This extensive scholarship package ensures scholars thrive in both their academic pursuits and personal development throughout their time at UWC.
Fields of Study Supported
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UWC supports a wide range of disciplines, ensuring a diverse community of scholars contributing to various sectors of development.
Undergraduate Programs
Arts and Humanities
- History
- Linguistics
- Sociology
- Women’s and Gender Studies
Economic and Management Sciences
- Economics
- Information Systems
- Public Administration
Education
- Mathematics and Science Education
- Foundation Phase Teaching
Natural Sciences
- Biological Sciences
- Computational Sciences
- Mathematical Sciences
- Physical Sciences
Master’s Degree Programs
Humanities and Arts
- Applied Linguistics
- History
- Gender Justice
- Migration Studies
- Sociology for Development
Community and Health Sciences
- Public Health
Economic and Management Sciences
- Development Studies
- Information Systems
- Migration Studies
Law
- Governance and Human Rights
Natural Sciences
- Biological Sciences
- Computational Sciences
- Mathematical Sciences
- Physical Sciences
This diverse academic offering allows students to align their educational paths with their personal passions and the needs of their communities.
Eligibility Criteria for Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026
To be considered for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 at UWC, applicants must meet specific academic, financial, and demographic criteria:
Undergraduate Applicants
- Must be 26 years of age or younger at the time of application
- Meet the minimum admission requirements for undergraduate study at UWC
- Must have submitted an application for admission to UWC for the 2026 academic year
- Be able to start full-time studies in January 2026
- Demonstrate that access to higher education is limited by economic or social challenges
Master’s Degree Applicants
- Must be 30 years of age or younger
- Meet the entry requirements for postgraduate studies at UWC
- Have applied for academic admission for the 2026 intake
- Must begin full-time master’s studies in January 2026
- Show proof of financial and social barriers affecting their access to university
Applicants from marginalised communities, including refugees, displaced individuals, women, and those living with disabilities, are strongly encouraged to apply.
How to Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 at UWC
Follow these steps to complete your application:
- Check Your Eligibility
Carefully review all academic and age requirements to ensure you qualify. - Apply for Academic Admission
Submit your application to the University of the Western Cape for either undergraduate or master’s studies in 2026. - Prepare Supporting Documents
Collect academic transcripts, proof of financial need, and evidence of the social challenges you face. - Access the Scholarship Application Form
Download or request the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship application form through the UWC website or contact the scholarship office. - Complete and Submit Your Application
Submit both your UWC admission application and scholarship application before the deadline. - Await Selection Results
All applications will be reviewed by a committee, and shortlisted candidates will be contacted for the next stage.
Application Deadline
The final date to submit your application for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 at the University of the Western Cape is:
August 31, 2025
Early submission is strongly encouraged due to the competitive nature of the program and the time needed for evaluation.
Final Thoughts
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026 at UWC is more than a scholarship—it’s a launchpad for the next generation of African leaders. If you are an ambitious young person facing financial and social hurdles, this opportunity could change the course of your future.
With full financial support, personal mentorship, and leadership training, this program prepares scholars not only to graduate, but to make lasting impacts in their communities and across Africa.
Don’t miss the chance to pursue world-class education and unlock your leadership potential through one of the continent’s most impactful scholarship programs.
Visit our Scholarship section to explore more opportunities.
