Applications are now open: The Mandela Rhodes Foundation (MRF) Postgraduate Scholarships

Application Deadline: 14 April 2026

About the Scholarship

The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship is for postgraduate study (Honours and Masters degrees) in any field at a recognized South African institution of higher education. It is designed for young leaders who have a combination of intellect and character, keeping Nelson Mandela’s legacy alive by equipping young African leaders with the competence and courage to transform the continent into a place where everyone has equal opportunity to thrive. The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship offers comprehensive funding for the core costs associated with your studies. It covers tuition for a one-year Honours degree or a two-year Masters degree in any field at a recognised South African institution of higher education.

Applications are now open for the 2027 Mandela Rhodes Foundation (MRF) Postgraduate Scholarships. The scholarship combines financial support with a leadership programme that will challenge you, grow you, and connect you to young African changemakers.

Costs Covered

• Tuition and registration fees as set by your university or institution
• A study materials allowance as set by the MRF
• Accommodation and meal allowances as set by the MRF
• A medical aid allowance as set by the MRF
• A personal allowance as set by the MRF
• Research and conferencing grants can be made available on request
• Economy-class flights for international scholars from their home countries to their institutions at the start and end of their studies

The Leadership Development Programme

The programme is built on the founding principles of reconciliation, education, entrepreneurship, and leadership, and a belief that leadership begins with inner transformation. The programme aims to keep Nelson Mandela’s legacy alive by equipping young African leaders with the competence and courage to transform the continent into a place where everyone has equal opportunity to thrive. The programme is delivered primarily through a series of week-long residential workshops which you will attend during your time in residence.

Eligibility Criteria

• You must be academically strong: your marks should be above 70% or an upper second
• You must have demonstrated leadership on your campus or in your community
• You must be between the ages of 19 and 29 in the year of applying
• The scholarship is for postgraduate study (Honours and Masters degrees) in any field
• You must demonstrate a combination of intellect and character

Application Timeline

• March 2026: Applications open on Monday, 9 March 2026. Candidates can add recommenders on the platform and begin uploading documentation and working on personal essays.
• April 2026: Applications close by the end of Tuesday, 14 April 2026 at 23:59 GMT+2. No late or incomplete applications will be accepted under any circumstances.
• July 2026: You will be notified by mid-July whether or not you are through to Round Two.
• July 2026: You will be notified by the end of July whether or not you are through to Round Three.
• August 2026: You will be notified by the end of August if you are invited for an interview in the Final Round, or if you have been unsuccessful.
• October 2026: Interviews will be conducted in South Africa in October. If you are in the final round and based outside South Africa, you will be flown in for an in-person interview with the selection committee. You will be notified by the end of October if you are selected as a Mandela Rhodes Scholar.
• October – December 2026: Selected Mandela Rhodes Scholars must secure acceptance at their university of choice and their study visa for travel to South Africa in January.

How to Apply

1. Visit the official application portal when applications open on 9 March 2026.
2. Add recommenders on the platform.
3. Begin uploading your documentation.
4. Work on your personal essays (see ‘Requirements’ on the official website).
5. Ensure your application is complete and submitted before the deadline: 14 April 2026 at 23:59 GMT+2.

Important Note: No late or incomplete applications will be accepted under any circumstances.

Click here to apply

For More Information: Visit the Official Webpage of the Mandela Rhodes Foundation (MRF) Postgraduate Scholarships