Mandela Rhodes Foundation 2025 Scholarships for African Students at South African Universities for Master

Eligibility Criteria

• The Mandela Rhodes Scholarships are open to citizens of all African countries
• The Scholarship is for postgraduate study at South African universities or tertiary institutions
• Full funding is for Honours (maximum one year) or Masters (up to a maximum of two years) or their equivalents (MBA’s excluded)
• Any individual who will be between the ages of 19 and 30 years at the time of taking up the Scholarship may apply
• Applicants must possess a first degree or its equivalent or must be in the process of completing one by 31 January 2026
• Applicants should have a history of well-above average-academic results
• Individuals that reflect in their character a commitment to the four principles of Education, Reconciliation, Leadership and Entrepreneurship
• The MRF leadership development activities sometimes include weekends. It is a condition of the Scholarship that attendance is compulsory

Offered Benefits

The Scholarship covers the cost of a Scholar as follows:

• Tuition and registration fees as set by the 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;
• Economy-class travel allowance for international Scholars only from the Scholar’s home to their institution at the beginning and back home at the end of their degree programme;
• Personal allowance.

Application Process

Required Documents:

• Recommendation Letters
• Documentation: Degree certificates, academic transcripts, ID, and passport scans
• Essays: Personal journey and a specific question related to the scholarship’s principles
• Application for university admission
• South African Qualification Agency Certificate (for non-South African applicants)