The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cape Town (UCT) offers academically talented and service-oriented young people from Sub-Saharan Africa an opportunity to access world-class higher education in South Africa with comprehensive financial and developmental support. The programme is part of the global Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, an initiative designed to develop the next generation of transformative leaders by supporting talented young people to pursue higher education, succeed in the world of work and strengthen their leadership potential. At UCT, the programme selects academically talented young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa and provides extensive support throughout their studies. Beyond covering major study-related costs, the scholarship focuses on academic success, leadership development, career readiness, entrepreneurship and continued community engagement. For eligible students seeking a fully supported university education in South Africa, the UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program presents an important opportunity to study at one of Africa’s leading universities while becoming part of a growing network of young changemakers. About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a global initiative focused on enabling talented young people to access higher education and develop into ethical and transformative leaders. The programme recognizes that financial barriers can prevent highly capable students from accessing quality higher education. Through partnerships with leading universities and institutions, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides support designed to help scholars not only enter university but also succeed academically and prepare for meaningful careers and leadership roles. At the University of Cape Town, the programme supports young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa who demonstrate strong academic ability and a commitment to service and positive social change. Scholars are expected to participate in the broader development programmes and activities that form part of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT. The scholarship therefore goes beyond financial assistance. It combines university education with opportunities for personal growth, leadership development, career preparation and connection with a wider community of changemakers. What Does the Scholarship Cover? One of the major benefits of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT is its comprehensive financial support. The scholarship covers the full period of the scholar’s approved UCT programme of study. Support is renewable annually, subject to satisfactory academic performance, appropriate personal conduct and continued participation in the programme’s required development activities. The comprehensive scholarship support includes: Full tuition fees for the chosen programme of study. A laptop. Accommodation on UCT campuses. Living expenses. Medical aid. A study visa, where applicable. Annual travel to and from UCT. These benefits can significantly reduce the financial barriers associated with studying abroad or pursuing higher education at a leading South African university. Applicants should nevertheless review the official programme information and application guidance carefully to understand the specific conditions attached to the scholarship and the support available for their particular programme. Study at the University of Cape Town The University of Cape Town offers scholars the opportunity to pursue their academic studies within a rigorous and socially engaged learning environment. Through their chosen academic programmes, Mastercard Foundation Scholars can access high-quality teaching while developing knowledge and skills that may support their future careers and contributions to society. The educational experience is intended to help scholars unlock their potential and contribute towards building more just and equitable communities. Students can pursue their academic development while also participating in activities designed to strengthen their personal, professional and leadership capabilities. More Than a Scholarship: Leadership and Personal Development The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT places significant emphasis on developing the whole student. Alongside financial and academic support, scholars receive access to development opportunities aimed at strengthening important skills for life after university. The programme includes academic and peer support to help scholars develop, grow and succeed throughout their studies. Skills and development programmes focus on areas including: Entrepreneurial readiness. Career readiness. Ethical leadership. Transformative leadership. Community engagement. Personal development. Professional growth. Academic success. These opportunities are designed to prepare scholars not only to complete their degrees but also to navigate the transition into employment, entrepreneurship, leadership and continued service to their communities. The programme encourages scholars to consider how their education and skills can contribute to positive change across Africa and beyond. Who Is the Scholarship Designed For? The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT is designed for academically talented young leaders from Sub-Saharan Africa. The programme particularly focuses on young people who demonstrate strong academic potential and a commitment to service, leadership and contributing positively to their communities. Because scholarship eligibility and admission requirements may differ depending on the level of study and chosen academic programme, prospective applicants should carefully review the official application page, eligibility criteria and frequently asked questions before submitting an application. Applicants should ensure that they meet both: The admission requirements for their chosen UCT programme. The eligibility requirements for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program. Meeting the academic requirements for a university programme does not automatically guarantee selection for the scholarship. Scholarship Renewal and Continued Support The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program covers the full duration of an approved UCT programme of study. However, the scholarship is renewable annually rather than being unconditional for the entire study period. Continued support depends on: Satisfactory academic performance. Appropriate personal conduct. Participation in programme development activities. Continued compliance with relevant programme requirements. Scholars are therefore expected to remain actively engaged with both their academic studies and the wider developmental components of the programme. Join a Lifelong Network of Changemakers One of the long-term benefits of becoming a Mastercard Foundation Scholar is the opportunity to join a wider community of leaders and changemakers. After completing their studies at UCT, graduates become part of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Alumni Network. This lifelong network connects scholars and alumni who have participated in the programme and who share an interest in leadership, service and contributing to positive social transformation. For young African graduates, this can provide opportunities for continued engagement, peer connections and participation in a wider community beyond university. Why Consider the UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program? The scholarship stands out because it provides more than funding for a university degree. Successful scholars receive a combination of: Comprehensive financial support. Access to higher education at UCT. Accommodation and living support. A laptop for academic use. Medical aid. Visa and travel support where applicable. Academic and peer support. Career and entrepreneurial development. Leadership development. Community engagement opportunities. Access to a lifelong alumni network. This combination can help talented students focus on their studies while developing the skills, confidence and networks needed for future careers and leadership. How to Apply Interested candidates should visit the official University of Cape Town Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program website and review the available application guidance before applying. Prospective applicants should carefully check: Current application opening and closing dates. Eligible levels of study. Scholarship eligibility requirements. UCT admission requirements. Required supporting documents. Application procedures. Frequently asked questions. Applicants should use only the official UCT and Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program channels to obtain current information and submit their applications. The official programme pages can be accessed through the University of Cape Town Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program website and the UCT scholarship application information page on the link below: FIND OUT MORE HERE For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the scholarship provider or the University of Cape Town. Applicants are encouraged to verify all eligibility requirements, programme details and application deadlines through the official source before applying. JOIN GSO WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW