Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2024-2025 at the University of Pretoria

The University of Pretoria (UP), in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, is offering scholarships to support economically disadvantaged yet academically gifted youth in Africa who are committed to effecting positive change on the continent.

This scholarship program is designed to support students who are facing significant socio-economic barriers and demonstrate leadership potential, a commitment to community service, and academic excellence.

Available Programs

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Pretoria is offering scholarships in the following faculties:

• Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
• Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
• Faculty of Humanities (for entry into the BPolSci – Political Studies or International Studies only)
• Faculty of Law (Undergraduates: SADC, Post Graduates: All African Countries)
• Faculty of Education
• Faculty of Engineering, Built Environment & Information Technology (EBIT)

Scholarship Benefits

The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides comprehensive funding to selected students, including:

• Full tuition fees
• Accommodation in a UP residence or UP-accredited accommodation
• A modest monthly stipend
• Prescribed textbooks and printed material
• Medical aid cover for the duration of study
• Visa costs (for international students)
• Reasonable travel costs (including flight tickets) to and from South Africa
• Academic and non-academic workshops
• Leadership development opportunities
• Academic advising and counseling support

Eligibility

To be eligible for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be citizens of a Sub-Saharan African country
• Come from economically disadvantaged backgrounds and demonstrate financial neediness
• Demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to community service through involvement in projects, school activities, or religious organizations
• Maintain a high academic average throughout their academic career
• Be first-time applicants as first-year students in the degree program
• Be provisionally admitted to the University of Pretoria for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree

How to Apply?

To apply for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, follow these steps:

1. Apply for provisional admission to the University of Pretoria for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree.
2. Download and complete the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application form.
3. Submit the application form along with all supporting documents, including:
   • Academic records
   • Proof of financial need
   • Leadership potential and community service involvement
   • Provisional admission letter from the University of Pretoria
4. Submit your application electronically to [email protected] or deliver a printed copy to the Department for Education Innovation’s reception office.

Selection Criteria

The selection process will consider the following criteria:

• Academic performance
• Leadership potential
• Community service involvement
• Financial need
• Personal statement and motivation letter

Timeline

• Application deadline: September 30, 2024
• Review and selection process: October – November 2024
• Notification of outcome: December 2024

Contact Information

For more information, please contact:

Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program
University of Pretoria
[email protected]

Deadline:

September 30, 2024

APPLY FOR THIS SCHOLARSHIP