Applications are open for the Mandela Rhodes Foundation (MRF) Shaun Johnson Memorial Scholarships 2026 for MRF Alumni
Application Deadline:
- 17 May 2026
Tell Me About The Scholarship:
The Shaun Johnson Memorial Scholarship (SJMS) is a fully funded UK doctoral scholarship available exclusively to Mandela Rhodes Alumni. Established in 2016 through a partnership between the Mandela Rhodes Foundation (MRF) and the Leverhulme Trust, the scholarship was renamed in 2020 in honour of Shaun Johnson, founding Executive Director of MRF.
It supports African doctoral researchers with strong academic and leadership ambitions, enabling them to pursue PhD studies at UK universities while accessing world-class supervisors, research infrastructure, and international academic networks.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- All PhD disciplines offered at UK universities.
- Applicants must demonstrate clear academic specialization and leadership alignment.
Type:
- PhD Scholarship | UK | Mandela Rhodes Alumni
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be Mandela Rhodes Alumni.
- Intend to pursue doctoral studies in the UK.
- Demonstrate:
- Clear academic specialization pathway.
- Alignment of doctoral study with leadership journey.
- Potential for long-term impact in academia, policy, or society.
- Strong rationale for studying in the UK.
How are Candidates Selected?
- Highly competitive: only two scholarships awarded annually.
- Selection prioritizes academic excellence, leadership potential, and readiness for societal impact.
- Advantage for applicants with:
- Well-developed research proposals.
- Confirmed academic interest from UK supervisors.
- Strong leadership engagement record.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- Africa only (restricted to Mandela Rhodes Alumni).
Where will the Scholarship be Taken?
- United Kingdom universities (doctoral research).
How Many Awards?
- 2 scholarships per year.
What is the Benefit of the Scholarship?
- Full funding for tuition costs.
- Living stipend in the UK.
- Support with UK visa process (administration via Leverhulme Trust).
- Note: Travel funding, family support, or relocation allowances are not explicitly included.
How Long Will the Scholarship Last?
- Duration of PhD programme (typically 3–4 years).
Required Documents:
- Completed application form (request via MRF).
- Research proposal.
- Academic transcripts.
- Proof of Mandela Rhodes Alumni status.
- Letters of support from UK supervisors (recommended).
How to Apply:
- Confirm eligibility (Mandela Rhodes Alumni, UK PhD intent).
- Review selection criteria and prepare research proposal.
- Request application forms from [email protected].
- Submit completed application by 17 May 2026.
Visit Application Webpage for Details
