Mandela Rhodes Scholarships (2026)

The Mandela Rhodes Scholarships fund African citizens to pursue one-year Honours or two-year Masters degrees at recognised South African universities, pairing full financial support with a leadership development programme.

What it offers

• Full tuition and registration fees
• Allowances for study materials, research, and medical aid
• Accommodation and meals
• Personal allowance
• Economy class travel to and from South Africa at the start and end of the degree
• Participation in leadership development workshops

Who can apply

• Citizens of any African country
• Aged 19–29 in the year of application
• Hold an undergraduate degree with excellent results (minimum 70% or upper-second class Honours)
• Able to study at postgraduate level in English
• Demonstrate leadership potential, commitment to reconciliation, education, entrepreneurship, and service

What you'll do

• Study an Honours degree (1 year) or Masters degree (2 years) in any field at a recognised South African university
• Join a cohort of young African changemakers and participate in intensive residential workshops designed to foster inner transformation and leadership capacity

How to apply

• Review eligibility and programme requirements
• Prepare documents: completed online application form, academic transcripts, curriculum vitae, personal essays (addressing leadership, reconciliation, education, entrepreneurship), references, passport copy
• Apply online via the Mandela Rhodes Foundation application portal between 9 March – November 2027 for the Class of 2028

Good to know

• Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and alignment with Mandela Rhodes principles
• Applicants must show openness to personal growth, self-awareness, and engagement with diversity
• Selection includes application review, references, and interviews
• SAQA verification may be required for non-South African applicants