The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship 2027 is a fully funded postgraduate scholarship for young African leaders who want to study in South Africa. The programme combines comprehensive financial support with a leadership development programme built around reconciliation, education, entrepreneurship, and leadership.
The scholarship funds one-year Honours degrees or two-year Masters degrees in any field at a recognized South African institution of higher education. It is intended for academically strong young Africans who show leadership potential and a commitment to equality, freedom, and human dignity in Africa.
The leadership programme is delivered mainly through a series of week-long residential workshops during the period of study.
Benefits
The scholarship covers:
- Tuition and registration fees
- Study materials allowance
- Research allowance
- Medical aid allowance
- Accommodation and meals
- Personal allowance
- Economy-class travel for international scholars from their home country to South Africa at the start and end of their studies
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be a citizen of an African country
- Be between 19 and 29 years old in the year of applying
- Have an undergraduate degree by 1 January 2027
- Have strong academic results, generally above 70% or upper-second class Honours
- Be able to study at postgraduate level in English
- Intend to study an Honours or Masters degree in South Africa
- Show leadership potential and commitment to ethical leadership and social impact
Important Notes
- The scholarship is for postgraduate study only
- It supports Honours and Masters degrees in any field
- It does not fund MBAs, block-release courses, or predominantly online programmes
- Applicants must apply separately to their chosen universities in South Africa
How to Apply
- Apply online through the Mandela Rhodes Foundation application platform
- Upload all required documents and essays
- Ensure all recommendation letters are uploaded by your referees before the deadline
- Apply separately to South African universities for your intended degree programme
Official Website
https://www.mandelarhodes.org/scholarship/apply/
