Mandela Rhodes Scholarship
The Mandela Rhodes Foundation
The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship is one of Africa's most prestigious postgraduate awards. It funds African citizens to complete a one-year Honours or two-year Master's degree at a recognised South African university, alongside an immersive Leadership Development Programme that runs throughout the scholarship.
- Amount
- Full tuition + accommodation + living stipend + leadership programme
- Deadline
- 14 April 2026
- Renewable
- Yes
Eligible Fields of Study
The Mandela Rhodes Foundation supports students in the following disciplines
Eligibility Requirements
- ✓ Citizen of an African country (location of current study does not matter)
- ✓ Between 19 and 29 years old at the time of applying; under 30 when taking up the scholarship
- ✓ Academic record of 70% or above, or an upper second-class Honours degree
- ✓ Undergraduate degree completed by 1 January of the scholarship year
- ✓ Demonstrated leadership on campus or in your community
- ✓ Strong character, intellect, and a commitment to reconciliation, education, entrepreneurship and leadership
What's Included
- ✓ Full tuition at a recognised South African university
- ✓ Accommodation allowance
- ✓ Living stipend
- ✓ Stationery, books and conference allowances
- ✓ Year-long Mandela Rhodes Leadership Development Programme
- ✓ Lifelong membership of the Mandela Rhodes Community alumni network
- ✓ Mentorship from leaders across the continent
How to Apply
Steps to complete your The Mandela Rhodes Foundation bursary application
- 1
Create an account on the Mandela Rhodes Foundation application portal at mandelarhodes.org
- 2
Complete the online application form in full
- 3
Upload your academic transcripts, ID/passport and supporting documents
- 4
Provide at least three referee contacts for the Foundation to approach
- 5
Submit before 14 April — no late or incomplete applications are accepted
- 6
Shortlisted candidates attend regional interviews
- 7
Final candidates are interviewed by a national selection panel
Required Documents
- 📄 Certified copy of ID or passport
- 📄 Complete academic transcripts (Matric and all tertiary qualifications)
- 📄 Acceptance letter or proof of application to a South African university for Honours/Master's
- 📄 Up-to-date CV
- 📄 Personal essays as outlined in the application portal
- 📄 Contact details for three referees
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who can apply for the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship?
- Citizens of any African country, aged between 19 and 29 at the time of applying, with strong academic results (70%+ or upper second-class Honours) and demonstrated leadership. You do not need to be currently studying in South Africa.
- Does the scholarship cover MBAs?
- No. The scholarship funds Honours and Master's degrees in any field except MBA programmes.
- When does the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship close?
- Applications close on 14 April each year. No late or incomplete applications are accepted under any circumstances, so submit well before the deadline.
- What is the Leadership Development Programme?
- Alongside their academic studies, all Mandela Rhodes Scholars take part in a year-long Leadership Development Programme that includes residential workshops, mentorship, and engagement with leaders across the continent.
Ready to apply?
Applications close on 14 April 2026
Apply on The Mandela Rhodes Foundation's official siteInformation verified 2026-04-14. Always confirm details on the funder's official website before applying.
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