UWC Mastercard Foundation Scholarship in South Africa 2026 (Fully Funded) complete details
UWC Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 in South Africa (Fully Funded)
Applications are now open for the UWC Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 in South Africa. This prestigious fully funded scholarship provides a life-changing opportunity for talented African students to pursue Undergraduate and Master’s degree programs at the University of the Western Cape (UWC).
The program is designed to break social and financial barriers, focusing especially on young women, refugees, and students with disabilities. By supporting higher education, the scholarship aims to nurture the next generation of African leaders.
The University of the Western Cape, located in Bellville, South Africa, is a leading public research university ranked among the top global institutions. Supported by the Mastercard Foundation, this scholarship covers all academic, personal, and living expenses, ensuring that students can fully focus on their studies.
UWC Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 – Overview
- Host Institute: University of the Western Cape (UWC)
- Degree Levels: Undergraduate, Master’s
- Scholarship Coverage: Fully Funded
- Eligible Students: African Students
- Location: South Africa
- Application Deadline: 30 September 2025
Official Link: UWC Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
Financial Benefits
The UWC Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 offers comprehensive funding, including:
- Full tuition fee coverage
- Free accommodation in UWC residence halls
- Meal and personal expense support
- Health insurance and medical support
- Learning materials and academic resources
- Laptops and essential technology support
- Relocation and onboarding assistance
- Tailored academic and career support programs
Areas of Study
The scholarship supports a wide range of academic disciplines.
Undergraduate Programs
- Arts & Humanities: History, Linguistics, Sociology, Women’s & Gender Studies
- Economic & Management Sciences: Economics, Information Sciences, Public Administration
- Education: Mathematics & Science, Foundation Phase
- Natural Sciences: Biological Sciences, Computational Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Physical Sciences
Master’s Programs
- Humanities & Arts: Applied Linguistics, History, Gender Justice, Migration Studies, Sociology for Development
- Community & Health Sciences: Public Health
- Economic & Management Sciences: Development Studies, Information Sciences, Migration Studies
- Law: Governance & Human Rights
Natural Sciences: Biological Sciences, Computational Sciences, Mathematical Sciences, Physical Sciences
Eligibility Criteria
For Undergraduate Degree
- Maximum age: 26 years
- Must meet UWC’s admission standards
- Proof of financial need & social/economic challenges
- Admitted (or applied) to UWC for January 2026 intake
- Commitment to full-time studies
For Master’s Degree
- Maximum age: 30 years
- Must meet UWC’s admission standards
- Proof of financial need & social/economic challenges
- Applied/admitted to UWC for January 2026 intake
Commitment to full-time studies
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and upload the following:
- Academic transcripts from previous degree(s)
- Proof of financial need
- Statement of social/economic barriers faced
Any other required supporting documents
Application Process of UWC Mastercard Foundation Scholarship
- Confirm that you meet all eligibility requirements (age, academics, financial need).
- Apply online for academic admission at UWC for the 2026–2027 academic year.
- Collect all supporting documents (transcripts, proof of financial need, etc.).
- Complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholarship application form (available on the UWC website or via the scholarship office).
Wait for the selection committee’s review and decision.
UWC Mastercard Foundation Scholarship 2026 – Summary Table
Detail | Information |
Host University | University of the Western Cape (UWC), South Africa |
Supported by | Mastercard Foundation |
Degree Levels | Undergraduate, Master’s |
Coverage | Fully Funded (Tuition, Accommodation, Meals, Health, Materials, Technology) |
Eligible Students | African Students (esp. women, refugees, disabled) |
Fields of Study | Arts, Humanities, Sciences, Education, Law, Health, Management, Development Studies |
Max Age Limit | 26 years (UG), 30 years (Master’s) |
Deadline | 30 September 2025 |
Official Website |
