The Mandela Rhodes Scholarships are open for African citizens to study for postgraduate (Honors and Masters) degree at South African Universities.
Application Deadline:
- Applications close: November 2027 (exact date announced annually)
Tell Me About the Scholarship:
The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship is a prestigious postgraduate award that combines full financial support with a transformative leadership development programme.
It is built on Nelson Mandela’s legacy and the Foundation’s principles of reconciliation, education, entrepreneurship, and leadership. Scholars join a cohort of young African changemakers and participate in intensive residential workshops designed to foster inner transformation and leadership capacity.
Which Fields are Eligible?
- Honours degrees (1 year)
- Masters degrees (2 years)
- Any field of study at a recognised South African university.
Type:
- Postgraduate Scholarship | South Africa | Leadership & Academic Excellence
Who can Apply?
Applicants must:
- Be citizens of an African country.
- Be aged 19–29 in the year of application.
- Hold an undergraduate degree with excellent results (minimum 70% or upper-second class Honours).
- Be able to study at postgraduate level in English.
- Demonstrate leadership potential, commitment to reconciliation, education, entrepreneurship, and service.
How are Candidates Selected?
- 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.
Which Countries Are Eligible?
- All African countries.
Where will the Scholarship be Taken?
- Recognised universities in South Africa.
How Many Awards?
- Varies annually (multiple scholarships awarded each year).
What is the Benefit of the Scholarship?
- 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.
How Long Will the Scholarship Last?
- 1 year for Honours.
- 2 years for Masters.
Required Documents:
- Completed online application form.
- Academic transcripts.
- Curriculum vitae.
- Personal essays (addressing leadership, reconciliation, education, entrepreneurship).
- References.
- Passport copy (SAQA verification may be required for non-South African applicants).
How to Apply:
- Review eligibility and programme requirements.
- Prepare documents (transcripts, CV, essays, references, passport).
- Apply online via the Mandela Rhodes Foundation application portal.
- Submit between 9 March – November 2027 for the Class of 2028.
Visit the Application Webpage for details
