Please read carefully through the eligibility requirements below before you apply. Keep in mind that you need to apply for academic study at the University of Cape Town first as you will need the application code UCT supplies to be able to submit your application for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
What types of scholarships are available?
In 2022, 27 scholarship opportunities - Masters (by Research only) are available for students who intend to commence with their first year of registration for full-time postgraduate Masters by Research studies, in the second semester. Unfortunately, no applications for Undergraduates, Honours, Masters by Coursework and Dissertation, Postgraduate Diploma’, MBA and PhD will be accepted or considered for the 2024 second semester intake.
How do I know if I am eligible to apply?
To be eligible to apply for The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cape Town, applicants must meet the stated criteria as recorded in the Terms of Reference and Conditions of Award document for Masters (by Research) applicants available at www.mcfsp.uct.ac.za/guidelines-postgraduate-applicants.
To access the postgraduate application form for a Mastercard Foundation scholarship, applicants will need to complete the eligibility quiz of The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the online scholarship application website available at this link: https://uctmcf.smapply.io/
What should I submit with my application?
In order to apply for The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program, applicants must first apply to the University of Cape Town for academic study and placement. Only applicants, who have applied for academic study and placement to UCT, can submit an application for a Mastercard Foundation scholarship, for funding for studies at the university. At this stage, applicants do not need to worry whether they are accepted for academic study at UCT or not. The admission requirements for postgraduate study vary from one programme to another. Please consult the faculty concerned directly in order to find out what is required for the course or degree that you may wish to undertake. Please refer to the Directions for Postgraduate Applicants and faculties for the relevant closing dates and information on courses at UCT, how to apply to the university, as well as support structures available for postgraduate students at the university.
When is the best time to apply for The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?
The application should reach The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT no later than 30 April 2024. Applications will be accepted up to and including 11:59pm (SAST) on 30 April 2024.
What is The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT about?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT provides academically talented young people who have demonstrated commitment to their communities, yet who are economically disadvantaged, with access to quality and relevant education. It delivers holistic financial, social, and academic support throughout Scholars’ university education, and creates pathways for transitions to jobs, entrepreneurial activities, or further education. Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program gain skills, values, and competencies needed to succeed in the economy and make positive social impacts in their communities.
I am currently registered for studies at UCT. Can I still apply?
This Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT call for scholarship applications is targeted at first time postgraduate (Masters by Research) degree seeking applicants only. In other words, the scholarships will be granted on the basis of financial need to students who intend to commence with their first year of registration for full-time graduate study, and who will register for the second semester in the 2022 academic year at the University of Cape Town for their intended degree. Regrettably, funding assistance for your current degree programme is unavailable.
I applied last year but my application was unsuccessful. May I reapply?
The selection process for the 2024 cohort was highly competitive. Though you’re welcome to reapply for the 2025 academic year. Students enrolled in The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT will receive comprehensive scholarships, mentoring, leadership development, and life skills support. Applications have to be submitted – along with all required supporting documentation (these must be presented in the English language) – to the Program (see http://www.mcfsp.uct.ac.za/ for the application guidelines) by no later than 30 April 2024.
I don’t have a firm offer from the University yet. Will this affect the outcome of my application?
Applicants are required to apply for academic placement at UCT prior to submitting the Mastercard Foundation Scholars application. Rest assured, your application will be considered despite not having yet received a firm offer for studies at the university.
How do I apply to UCT?
You may access more information on how to apply to the University of Cape Town and can access the application forms at this link applyonline.uct.ac.za.
We encourage you to direct all postgraduate admissions enquiries to admissions-pg@uct.ac.za. Alternatively, feel free to call the office at +27 (0)21 650 2128. The Admissions Office is located on University of Cape Town, Level 4, Masingene Building, Middle Campus, Rondebosch, Cape Town, South Africa.
Can I apply for a Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT is targeted at first time graduate (Masters) degree seeking applicants only. Scholarships will be granted on the basis of financial need to students who intend to commence with their first year of registration for full-time graduate study, and who will register in 2024 at the University of Cape Town for their intended degree.
Where do I go to find further scholarship information?
Please visit The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT website for more information about various aspects of the funding opportunities currently available at www.mcfsp.uct.ac.za/how-apply.
How do I get help with my scholarship application?
Do not hesitate to contact The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT with queries or requests for assistance to complete a scholarship application form at info_mcfsp@uct.ac.za (telephone number +27 (0)21 650 5923 / 3601).
What are my chances of getting accepted into the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program?
To be eligible to apply for The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cape Town, applicants must meet the stated criteria as recorded in the Terms of Reference and Conditions of Award document for Masters (by Research) applicants available at www.mcfsp.uct.ac.za/guidelines-postgraduate-applicants.
To access the postgraduate application form for a Mastercard Foundation scholarship, applicants will need to complete the eligibility quiz of The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the online application website available at this link www.uctmcf.smapply.io/.
What is the application procedure?
To be eligible to apply for The MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cape Town, applicants must meet the stated criteria as recorded in the Terms of Reference and Conditions of Award document available on the Program’s website.
What should I include in my Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program essay?
Applicants are required to submit an essay, of no more than 2000 words which provides a brief explanation of the applicants background / circumstances and additional information using the following points as context:
- In which ways do you envisage contributing to the economic growth and social development of your country and Africa on completion of your studies, using your education as leverage?
- Explain any community service activities you have been involved in.
- List the qualities that, for you, define leadership and elaborate on leadership initiatives that you have undertaken.
What does the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program include?
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program are considered to be full-cost and will include full cover for the following (for awardees) as recorded in the Terms of Reference and Conditions of Award document available on The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT website:
- An economy class air ticket to Cape Town South Africa for awardees who are i) citizens and/or residents of a Sub-Saharan country other than South Africa or ii) residing in South Africa but outside of Cape Town
- Full tuition fees and international student fees
- Accommodation in the student housing system at the University of Cape Town
- Meals through the student housing system at the University of Cape Town
- Medical cover with a recommended medical aid service provider
- A living stipend; to be used to cover ad hoc expenses pertaining to your studies
- A book allowance to purchase the prescribed textbooks required for your degree programme
- Costs related to community activities as prescribed by the MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cape Town
- Access to an internship opportunity
- An economy class air ticket home upon completion of studies, for awardees who are i) citizens of and/or residents of a Sub-Saharan country other than South Africa or ii) residing in South Africa but outside of Cape Town
Please don’t hesitate to contact us should you require further assistance.