FirstRand invites high-achieving South African graduates to apply for the FirstRand Scholarships 2026, a prestigious funding opportunity supporting international postgraduate studies at leading global universities. A total of 12 scholarships are available for Master’s-level study, with scholars required to return to South Africa and contribute their skills after graduation.
About the FirstRand Scholarships 2026
FirstRand offers these scholarships to develop ethical leaders and destiny changers who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, community involvement, and strong character.
Key facts:
- Number of scholarships: 12
- Study level: Postgraduate (Master’s)
- Study location: International
- Citizenship: South African citizens only
- Applications open: 20 October 2025
- Applications close: 19 February 2026
- Final announcement: Before end of June 2026
- Return obligation: Minimum 5 years in South Africa after studies
List of FirstRand Scholarships Available for 2026
FirstRand Laurie Dippenaar Scholarships (2)
- International postgraduate study (various fields)
FirstRand Empowerment Foundation Scholarships (3)
- International postgraduate study with a leadership and empowerment focus
FirstRand Oxford Scholarships
- Oxford African Studies Scholarship – MSc in African Studies (Oxford School of Global and Area Studies)
- Oxford Blavatnik School of Government Scholarship – Master of Public Policy
- Oxford Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment Scholarship – MSc in Sustainability, Enterprise and the Environment
(Study at University of Oxford)
FirstRand IHE Delft Water Education Scholarship
- MSc in Water and Sustainability
- Study at IHE Delft Institute for Water Education
FirstRand IE School of Science and Technology Scholarship
- Master in Business Analytics and Big Data or
- Master in Computer and Business Technology
- Study at IE School of Science and Technology
Mandela Scholarships supported by FirstRand Empowerment Foundation (2)
- Master’s degree at University of Sussex
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all of the following:
- South African citizen
- Academically excellent graduate
- Demonstrated leadership and community involvement
- Undergoing or intending international postgraduate study
- Not currently studying overseas, and no prior overseas degree study
- Willing to return to South Africa for at least 5 years after completion
Selection Criteria
Successful candidates must clearly demonstrate:
- Academic excellence
- Leadership qualities
- Strength of character
- Community involvement
- Potential to be a “destiny changer” in their field
Application Process
Step 1: Apply to the University
Applicants must apply directly to their chosen international university before submitting the scholarship application.
Step 2: Submit the Online Scholarship Application
All applications and attachments must be completed online via the official portal.
Step 3: Submit Acceptance Letter
Once received, email the university acceptance letter to:
firstrandpgscholarship@firstrand.co.za
Deadline: No later than 7 April 2026
Step 4: Shortlisting and Interviews
- Applications reviewed by evaluators from FirstRand, FNB, RMB, and previous scholars
- About 45 candidates shortlisted for interviews (Cape Town, Sandton, or Microsoft Teams)
- Final interviews held in Sandton (May 2026)
Note: Decisions are final and panels reserve the right not to award a scholarship.
How to Apply
Click here to apply for the FirstRand Scholarships 2026:
Enquiries
Email queries (attention Giselle Ras) to:
firstrandpgscholarship@firstrand.co.za