Scholarship details
The University of Pretoria (UP), in collaboration with the Mastercard Foundation, offers a scholarship for exceptional African students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies since January 2014. Starting in January 2024, the Foundation will be entering a new phase of the program, focusing on academically talented individuals facing economic disadvantages, including those with disabilities residing in Africa, as well as internally displaced persons and refugees.
The students are expected to be contributing to the continent’s development through their skills, knowledge, values, attitude, and demonstration of their leadership abilities. The scholarship program emphasizes the importance of internships, education, and community services. Selected students admitted to the University of Pretoria for postgraduate studies will receive a comprehensive scholarship from the Foundation. Upon completing their studies, graduates are required to return to their home countries and make meaningful contributions to their communities.
The scholarship aims to provide outstanding African students an academic opportunity to pursue their higher education and be future leaders who can step up to their professional and personal goals. This program initiative in Africa aims to cultivate transformative leadership abilities among its beneficiaries. With an investment exceeding $700 million, the program has successfully aided the educational and leadership growth of over 30,000 young individuals.
Source: University of Pretoria
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program is a global initiative spanning a decade, with a budget of $500 million. Its primary goal is to empower and educate the next generation of leaders who will play an important role in driving economic and social transformation. By assisting young individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds, the Foundation ensures that they have the opportunity to complete high-quality university education and successfully transition to further education or careers in their home countries.
Scholarship Provider: The University of Pretoria
About the Provider
The University of Pretoria also known as UP stands as one of the leading universities in Africa, they are recognized as the largest university in South Africa. Their commitment lies in conducting research that creates a positive impact on society by addressing global challenges. The university prioritizes delivering high-quality education and academic learning experiences. whether it be within online platforms, traditional classroom settings, or through community engagements.
Their comprehensive support system ensures that all students graduate on schedule, equipped with the knowledge and skills to become well-rounded and responsible individuals, fully prepared to navigate the world beyond the university. Renowned for its exceptional teaching practices, the University of Pretoria provides an optimal environment for academic growth and success. Additionally, students have the opportunity to immerse themselves in a vibrant and enriching campus life throughout their studies.
Founded in 1908, the University of Pretoria is a highly esteemed public research university situated in Pretoria. It occupies a position in the global university rankings between 551 and 570. With a student body exceeding 55,000, the university prides itself on its diverse community, comprising both domestic and international students.
The Scholarship Program Benefits
The University of Pretoria-Mastercard Foundation (UP-Mastercard Foundation) program offers Scholars a comprehensive range of support, which includes the following:
- Comprehensive scholarships cover tuition fees, accommodation, books, stipends, and transportation expenses.
- Academic support tailored to the chosen program of study.
- Mentoring and counseling support to assist Scholars throughout their academic journey.
- Service and learning opportunities, fostering transition support and community engagements.
- Entrepreneurship skills development empowers scholars with the tools to succeed in the business world.
- Leadership skills training, enhancing their ability to lead and make a positive impact on the communities.
- Alumni connection which collaborates with their fellow scholars and graduates including facilitating the networks.
Scholarship Summary
- Applicant’s Nationality: African Students
- Degree Level: Master’s degree
- Number of Awards: NA
- Duration: NA
- Scholarship Awards: Fully-funded
- Scholarship Country; South Africa
- Renewable: Yes
- Offered Annually: Yes
Scholarship Eligibility
Before proceeding with the application, interested students must be eligible for the scholarship awards.
- Candidates must hold African citizenship.
- Applicants must be from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and can demonstrate financial need.
- Candidates are expected to showcase leadership potential and engagement in community service or giving back projects, such as involvement in their communities, churches, schools, and so on.
- Academic excellence is a critical factor, and students are required to maintain a consistently high academic average throughout their studies.
Eligible Fields for the Scholarship
The applicants must be admitted in the following field of study:
- Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Economic and Management Sciences
- Humanities and Law
- Engineering
- Built Environment
- Information Technology
Application Process
Eligible interested students who want to pursue thier higher degree at the University of Pretoria and want to apply for the scholarship program must follow the following application process:
- The application for the scholarship can be accessed in an online portal provided by the university. Applicants must meet the admission criteria of the university.
- Once receive your confirmation of admission, take the next step by reaching out to [email protected] to initiate the application process for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
- The chosen applicants for the Mastercard Scholarship program must ensure to have a valid passport ready to facilitate a smooth and timely visa application process.
Keep in mind that the application may require additional materials to better support the scholarship application process.
Additional Scholarship Coverage
Aside from the following benefits:
- Tuition fee
- Accommodations/meals
- Books and other related materials
- Monthly Stipend
The scholarship will also be covering the following:
- Medical Aid assistance
- Travel Airfare cost
- Visa application fee
Application Deadline
The deadline to complete and submit the application is until August 30, 2023. The application deadline is intended for the academic year of 2024-2025. Late and incomplete applications will not be considered.
It is important to check all the application guidelines on the official page of the provider.
