Provider
Mandela Rhodes Foundation
Location
South Africa (studies at approved universities in South Africa)
Scholarship Overview
The Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship is awarded for postgraduate studies (Honours or Master’s degrees) in any field. It is open to students from all African countries who intend to study at selected universities in South Africa.
This prestigious scholarship focuses not only on academic excellence but also on leadership development and personal growth.
What the Scholarship Covers
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Study materials allowance
- Meal and accommodation allowance
- Personal allowance
- Medical aid allowance
- Economy-class flights (for international students)
- Research and conference grants (on request)
Funding is provided for up to 2 years, depending on the programme.
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be a citizen of any African country
- Aged between 19 and 29 years
- Completed or completing an undergraduate degree by January 2027
- Minimum academic average of 70% (or upper-second class)
- Must study Honours or Master’s in 2027 (MBA not included)
- Must be accepted by a South African university by January 2027
- Must be fluent in English
- Must demonstrate leadership qualities
- Must not hold another scholarship
- Must not work more than 12 hours per week during studies
- Must be committed to leadership development programmes
Approved Universities
Includes:
- University of Cape Town
- University of Johannesburg
- University of Pretoria
- University of the Witwatersrand
- Stellenbosch University
- Rhodes University
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
- And other selected South African universities
Key Responsibilities of Scholars
- Participate in leadership development workshops
- Attend residential and online training sessions
- Submit progress reports during the academic year
- Maintain high academic and ethical standards
- Engage in mentoring and development programmes
Selection Criteria
- Academic excellence
- Leadership potential
- Commitment to African development
- Ethical leadership values
- Strong character and personal integrity
Required Documents
- Certified copy of ID or passport
- Academic transcripts
- Degree certificate (if available)
- 3 letters of recommendation
- 2 short essays
- Personal journey essay
- Leadership-related essay
Application Process
- Apply online through the official Mandela Rhodes Foundation platform
- Register an account before submitting your application
- Upload all required documents
- Ensure referees submit their recommendation letters
Closing Date
14 April 2026
Application Link
Apply here:https://mandela-rhodes.embark.com/login/apply?target=2027