Bourse UCT MasterCard Foundation 2027

The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cape Town (UCT) funds academically talented young Africans to pursue undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in South Africa, covering tuition, housing, living costs, a laptop, health insurance, study visas, and annual travel.

What it offers

• Full tuition for the chosen UCT degree
• On-campus housing at UCT
• Monthly living allowance
• Laptop provided to each scholar
• Comprehensive health insurance
• Study visa covered where applicable
• Annual round-trip travel to/from UCT
• Renewable each year subject to satisfactory academic performance and active participation in development programs

Who can apply

• Young Africans who demonstrate:
  • Strong academic record
  • Proven leadership potential
  • Commitment to positive social impact
  • Desire to advance Africa’s development
  • Interest in community transformation

How to apply

• Complete two separate processes:
  1. Apply for admission to an eligible UCT academic program
  2. Submit a separate MasterCard Foundation scholarship application
• Both steps must be completed; a scholarship application without an active UCT admission is invalid
• Deadline: 31 October 2026

Good to know

• The scholarship includes structured support beyond funding: mentoring, leadership development, academic tutoring, life skills training, career preparation, entrepreneurship training, and peer support.
• Scholars join the MasterCard Foundation Alumni Network, a lifelong community of change-makers across Africa.