Students from African countries, including South Africa, who already applied for a first bachelor’s degree at the University of Cape Town can apply for the UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027.
At a glance
Host: University of Cape Town
Partner: Mastercard Foundation
Study level: First bachelor’s degree
Eligible faculties: Commerce, Engineering & the Built Environment, Health Sciences, Humanities, Law and Science
Scholarship deadline: 30 September 2026
High-value notes
- UCT’s undergraduate academic applications for the 2027 intake are already closed.
- Only candidates who submitted a 2027 UCT bachelor’s application may now apply for this undergraduate scholarship.
- A UCT offer of admission is required before an applicant can become eligible for the program.
- The program prioritises academically talented young people who face significant social and economic barriers.
About the program
UCT and the Mastercard Foundation provide scholarships and comprehensive support to young African students. The program combines higher education with leadership, mentorship, career development and community engagement.
What the scholarship provides
The program provides a scholarship and comprehensive support throughout the scholar’s studies. This includes academic and personal development support, mentorship, leadership development and preparation for the world of work.
Eligibility requirements
- Be a citizen of an African country, including South Africa.
- Have already applied for a first bachelor’s degree at UCT for the 2027 intake.
- Demonstrate academic talent and commitment to completing your education.
- Face significant financial, social or economic barriers to higher education.
- Show potential for ethical and transformative leadership.
- Be committed to community service and positive change.
- Receive an offer of admission from UCT.
Part-time studies are not covered.
Documents to prepare
Follow the scholarship form’s current upload instructions. Prepare your UCT application details, identity documentation, academic records and evidence that supports your financial circumstances, leadership and community contribution.
Closing date
The undergraduate Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application closes on 30 September 2026. This deadline does not reopen UCT’s undergraduate academic application process.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Starting the scholarship application without having submitted a 2027 UCT bachelor’s application
- Assuming the scholarship form doubles as an academic application to UCT
- Leaving leadership or community-service examples vague
- Failing to explain the financial or social barriers affecting access to study
How this opportunity was verified
Last checked on 26 August 2026 using UCT’s current Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application page. It confirms the 2027 intake, undergraduate restrictions and 30 September 2026 scholarship deadline.
How to apply
- Confirm that you already submitted a 2027 undergraduate application to UCT.
- Review the program eligibility and selection criteria.
- Open the scholarship application from UCT’s Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program page.
- Complete and submit the separate scholarship application by 30 September 2026.