Are you a driven and passionate young African leader seeking access to world-class education? The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) is calling on ambitious students who want to make a meaningful impact in their communities and beyond. This is a golden opportunity for you to pursue a fully funded higher education degree in South Africa while being empowered to lead transformative change in Africa.
About the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a prestigious, fully funded scholarship initiative that seeks to empower academically talented, economically disadvantaged young people from Africa. The program focuses on nurturing a new generation of ethical leaders and changemakers by providing access to quality education, mentorship, leadership training, and holistic support.
Since its launch, the program has helped thousands of young Africans gain world-class education and leadership skills to improve the lives of others and promote inclusive development across the continent.
Why Study at the University of the Western Cape (UWC)?
The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is one of South Africa’s most respected public universities, known for its commitment to social justice, academic excellence, and community empowerment. With its participation in the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, UWC is extending its mission to equip African youth with the education and tools they need to become agents of positive change.
As a Mastercard Foundation Scholar at UWC, you won’t just receive an education—you’ll gain the skills, mindset, and network necessary to shape Africa’s future.
What the Scholarship Covers
This is a fully funded scholarship, meaning that selected scholars will receive support for all academic and living expenses throughout the duration of their study. Specifically, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UWC covers:
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Full tuition fees
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Accommodation and meals
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Monthly stipends for living expenses
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Learning materials and supplies
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Travel expenses (where applicable)
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Academic and career counseling
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Leadership development and entrepreneurship training
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Opportunities for community engagement and internships
✅ Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UWC, applicants must meet the following criteria:
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Be a citizen of an African country
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Demonstrate academic excellence and strong leadership potential
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Show evidence of economic disadvantage (financial need)
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Be committed to giving back to your community or country
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Apply for and be admitted into an eligible program at the University of the Western Cape
Application Process
The application process typically includes the following steps:
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Choose an eligible course at UWC.
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Complete the UWC application for admission.
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Fill out the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application form (usually provided on UWC’s scholarship portal or via their official email communications).
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Submit supporting documents, such as academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, proof of financial need, a personal statement, and other relevant materials.
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Participate in interviews (if shortlisted).
Note: Deadlines and specific requirements may vary. Always refer to the official UWC or Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program page for up-to-date information.
Benefits of Becoming a Mastercard Foundation Scholar
Becoming a Mastercard Foundation Scholar is more than just a scholarship – it’s a transformative life experience. Scholars benefit from:
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Quality Education: Study at a globally recognized institution in South Africa.
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Holistic Support: Receive academic, financial, emotional, and career guidance throughout your academic journey.
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Leadership Training: Gain essential leadership skills through workshops, mentorship, and real-world experiences.
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Lifelong Network: Join a vibrant community of scholars, alumni, and professionals across Africa and beyond.
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Community Impact: Be empowered to design and implement social change projects in your home country.
Deadline and How to Apply
Applications are typically accepted once a year. Deadlines and specific instructions are posted on UWC’s official website and through the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program platform.
We recommend checking the University of the Western Cape official scholarship page or the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program site regularly for announcements.
Conclusion
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UWC is an extraordinary chance for bright African students to overcome financial barriers and gain access to high-quality education. If you have the passion, the potential, and the vision to lead positive change in your community, don’t miss this opportunity to apply.
Start preparing your documents today and take the first step toward becoming a Mastercard Foundation Scholar at the University of the Western Cape!
Stay tuned to our scholarship site for more life-changing opportunities across Africa and the globe. Share this post to help someone in need!