The Mandela Rhodes Foundation invites African students to apply for the Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship 2026, for postgraduate studies in 2027.
Bursary Application Closing Date: 14 April 2026
Overview of the Scholarship
The Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship is one of Africa’s most prestigious postgraduate funding opportunities. It supports academically strong students with leadership potential to study Honours or Master’s degrees in South Africa.
In addition to financial support, the programme focuses on leadership development, mentorship, and personal growth.
What the Scholarship Covers
Successful applicants will receive full funding, including:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Study materials allowance
- Accommodation and meals
- Personal allowance
- Medical aid allowance
- Flights (for students outside South Africa)
- Research and conference grants (on request)
Duration of Funding
- Honours Degree: 1 year
- Master’s Degree: 1–2 years
Leadership Development Component
Scholars will also participate in:
- Residential leadership workshops
- Regional learning pods
- Mentorship programmes
These activities are compulsory and form a key part of the scholarship.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be a citizen of any African country
- Be between 19 and 29 years old
- Have completed (or will complete) an undergraduate degree by 1 January 2027
- Achieve at least 70% average or upper-second class
- Intend to study Honours or Master’s degree (excluding MBA)
- Secure university admission by January 2027
- Be fluent in English
- Demonstrate strong leadership experience
- Show commitment to ethical leadership and social impact
- Not hold another scholarship
- Not work more than 12 hours per week during studies
Approved Universities in South Africa
The scholarship is valid at selected institutions, including:
- University of Cape Town (UCT)
- University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
- University of Pretoria (UP)
- University of Johannesburg (UJ)
- University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
- University of the Free State (UFS)
- University of Limpopo (UL)
- Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
- Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
(and many more institutions across South Africa)
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- ID document (SA citizens) or passport (non-SA)
- Degree certificate
- Academic transcripts
- 3 recommendation letters
- 2 essays (personal journey + leadership-related question)
Note:
- Referees must upload letters via the official application platform
How to Apply
Click here to apply for Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship 2026:
Application Process:
- Register an account
- Complete the online application
- Upload all required documents
- Submit before the deadline
Important Notes
- The scholarship cannot be deferred
- Applicants must maintain strong academic performance
- Participation in leadership programmes is mandatory
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
Why You Should Apply
This scholarship is ideal for students who:
- Want fully funded postgraduate education
- Have leadership ambitions
- Want to create impact in Africa
- Seek both academic and personal development
The Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship is more than funding—it is a leadership journey that prepares young Africans to shape the future of the continent.