A Transformative Partnership
Since 2012, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program has been a global beacon of opportunity—supporting talented but economically and socially marginalized youth across Africa. The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is now part of this visionary initiative, and over the next seven years, it will host 500 fully funded scholarships—250 for undergraduate students and 250 for master’s degree candidates.
This partnership reflects UWC’s longstanding commitment to inclusive education and a mission to develop transformative leaders who are deeply connected to the continent’s future.
Who Is Eligible?
The program extends its reach to individuals who face educational and financial barriers, with special attention to:
- Young women, who constitute 70% of the scholarships.
- Refugees and forcibly displaced youth (25%).
- Persons with disabilities (10%).
- International students from across Africa, making up 20% of the cohort.
Academic Fields
Applicants can pursue fully funded degrees in:
Undergraduate:
- Arts & Humanities
- Economic & Management Sciences
- Education (Mathematics and Science)
- Natural Sciences
Master’s:
- Applied Linguistics
- History
- Gender Justice
- Migration Studies
- Sociology for Development
- Public Health
- Development Studies
- Information Sciences
- Governance and Human Rights
- Computational and Natural Sciences
Scholarship Benefits
Once admitted, scholars receive comprehensive support, including:
- Full tuition and fees
- On-campus housing
- Monthly stipend and meal allowance
- Medical aid
- Laptop and study materials
- Pre-arrival orientation and ongoing academic and personal support
Voices from the Program
Zukhanye Ngwenduna, a Mastercard Foundation Scholar from Nyanga studying Mathematics and Statistical Sciences, shared:
“When I received the offer letter, I knew this was the right path for me… The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program gave me the chance to focus on my studies without financial stress.”
How to Apply
Applications are now open for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UWC. If you meet the eligibility criteria and are passionate about making a difference in your community, this could be your opportunity to pursue a fully funded education in South Africa.
📌 Apply here: https://www.uwc.ac.za/study/partnerships/mastercard-foundation-scholars-program