A transformative opportunity awaits young African leaders with the announcement of the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) for the 2026 academic year. This prestigious, fully funded scholarship is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies, offering a gateway to world-class education at one of South Africa’s leading universities. If you are an academically gifted student dreaming of earning a top-tier qualification without the financial burden, this comprehensive guide is your essential first step.
Designed for talented young Africans from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, the Scholars Program is committed to developing the next generation of ethical, transformative leaders. With a strong emphasis on inclusivity, the program strongly encourages applications from young women, refugees, internally displaced persons, and individuals with disabilities. READ: Mastercard Scholarships at the University of Pretoria in South Africa – 2026
What the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship at UWC Covers
This is more than just a tuition waiver; it’s a comprehensive support system designed to ensure academic and personal success. The scholarship provides a full package of benefits, including:
- Full Tuition Fees: Complete coverage of all academic costs.
- University Accommodation: Guaranteed housing in a UWC campus residence.
- Living Stipend: A regular allowance to cover meals and other living expenses.
- Medical Aid: Comprehensive health coverage for the duration of your studies.
- Learning Resources: A laptop and a book allowance to ensure you have the necessary study materials.
- Comprehensive Support: From pre-arrival guidance and a dedicated orientation program to ongoing psychosocial and academic support, the program facilitates a smooth transition to university life and, subsequently, into the workforce.
- Leadership Development: Access to workshops, training, and seminars focused on cultivating essential leadership skills.
Are You Eligible? A Detailed Look at the Criteria
The program has specific eligibility requirements for undergraduate and master’s candidates to ensure that selected scholars are poised to thrive.
For Undergraduate Applicants:
- Age: You must be 26 years of age or younger at the time of application.
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of an African country.
- UWC Application: You must have a valid UWC student application number for the 2026 academic year. Applying to the university is a prerequisite.
- Financial Need: You must demonstrate that your access to higher education is limited by social and economic barriers.
- Availability: You must be prepared to commence full-time studies in January 2026.
For Master’s Applicants:
- Age: You must be 30 years of age or younger at the time of application.
- Nationality: Must be a citizen of an African country.
- UWC Application: You must have a valid UWC student application number for an eligible master’s program for the 2026 academic year.
- Qualifications: For international applicants, foreign qualifications must be verified by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
- Financial Need: You must demonstrate that economic or social barriers prevent you from pursuing postgraduate studies.
- Availability: You must be ready to begin your full-time master’s program in January 2026.
Eligible Fields of Study: Mastercard Foundation Scholarship
The scholarship program supports a wide range of academic disciplines that are critical to the development of the African continent.
Eligible Undergraduate Programmes:
- Arts and Humanities: History, Linguistics, Sociology, Women’s & Gender Studies.
- Economic and Management Sciences: Economics, Information Systems, Public Administration.
- Education: Mathematics & Science (Foundation Phase).
- Natural Sciences: Biological Sciences, Computational Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Physical Sciences.
Eligible Master’s Programmes:
- Arts and Humanities: Applied Linguistics, History, Gender Justice, Migration Studies, Sociology for Development.
- Community and Health Sciences: Public Health.
- Economic and Management Sciences: Development Studies, Information Science.
- Law: Governance and Human Rights.
- Natural Sciences: Biological Sciences, Computational Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Physical Sciences.
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Step-by-Step Application Process: Your Path to UWC
The application process is thorough and requires careful attention to detail. Follow these steps to ensure your application is successfully submitted:
- Apply to the University of the Western Cape: The first and most critical step is to apply for admission to an eligible degree program at UWC through the university’s online portal. Once submitted, you will receive a UWC Student Number, which is mandatory for the scholarship application. [CLICK HERE]
- Complete the Scholarship Form: With your UWC Student Number, fill out the dedicated online application form for the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship.
- Gather Required Documents: Prepare and upload all requested documents in PDF format. This typically includes a letter of motivation, academic transcripts, and evidence of your financial situation.
- Submit Before the Deadline: The firm deadline for applications is 31 August 2025, at 16:30 (CAT). It is highly recommended to submit your application well in advance to avoid any last-minute issues.
Living and Studying in Cape Town: An Unforgettable Experience
The University of the Western Cape is located in Cape Town, one of the most vibrant and beautiful cities in the world. Studying at UWC offers not only a quality education but also an enriching life experience. The cost of living for students in Cape Town is relatively affordable compared to other major global cities. It provides a unique blend of breathtaking natural beauty, with its iconic mountains and beaches, and a dynamic cultural and social scene.
UWC itself is renowned for its commitment to equity, access, and academic excellence. With a rich history rooted in the struggle against apartheid, the university prides itself on its diversity and its role in shaping critical and engaged citizens.
This scholarship is more than just funding; it is an investment in your potential to become a leader who will make a difference in your community and across the African continent. Do not miss this chance to transform your future.
