The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) invites eligible candidates to apply for fully funded Master’s degree studies for the 2026 academic year.
Applications Now Open | Deadline: Sunday, 31 August 2025 at 16:30 CAT
Study Location: University of the Western Cape (UWC), South Africa
Mode of Application: Online Only
Become a Mastercard Foundation Scholar at UWC in 2026
This transformative program supports talented, service-oriented individuals from economically and socially disadvantaged backgrounds, with a particular focus on young women, refugees, displaced youth, and persons with disabilities.
Click here to apply now for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026
Fields of Study Covered
The program offers full funding for a maximum of two years for Master’s studies in the following UWC faculties and programmes:
- Arts and Humanities
(Applied Linguistics, History, Gender Justice, Migration Studies, Sociology for Development) - Community & Health Sciences
(Public Health) - Economic & Management Sciences
(Development Studies, Information Sciences) - Law
(Governance and Human Rights) - Natural Sciences
(Biological, Computational, Mathematical and Physical Sciences)
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must:
- Be no older than 30 years by the time of registration.
- Meet UWC’s minimum admission requirements for the selected programme.
- International applicants must meet SAQA equivalence: Visit SAQA
- Provide evidence of economic and social disadvantage.
- Never have been registered for a Master’s degree previously.
How to Apply
Step 1: Apply for Admission to UWC
- New and returning students must first apply to UWC for 2026 admission.
- You will receive an Application Number, which you must use to complete your scholarship application.
Step 2: Apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
- Complete the online scholarship application form
- No emailed or duplicate applications will be accepted.
Required Supporting Documents (in PDF)
Prepare the following documents before submitting:
- Cover letter (include background, financial need, UWC choice, post-graduation vision)
- One-page abstract of your intended research topic
- Letter of recommendation (official, signed)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Passport-sized photograph
- Certified ID or Passport (with visa/refugee permit if applicable)
- Proof of parental/guardian income (or unemployment letter)
- Disability registration or refugee documentation (if applicable)
Note: Incomplete applications will be automatically disqualified.
Important Dates
- Application Closing Date: Sunday, 31 August 2025 at 16:30 CAT
- Selection Outcomes: Mid-December 2025
- Duration of Funding: Up to 2 years of Master’s study
Final Reminder
This is your opportunity to pursue a fully funded Master’s degree at a top South African university with world-class support and a community of changemakers. Apply early to avoid last-minute issues.
Submit your Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program Application for UWC 2026 Here
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