Mandela Rhodes Foundation (MRF)Scholarship 2026/2027 for Master

Eligibility Criteria

• I can study at a postgraduate level in English.  Take this free test if you're unsure.
• Citizen of an African country
• Applicant between the ages of 19 and 29 in the year of applying
• By 1 Jan 2027,Applicant should have an undergraduate degree with excellent academic results (above 70% or upper-second class Honours)
• Aspire to be an ethical leader and I am committed to using my talents to advance equality, freedom and human dignity in Africa
• Admire Nelson Mandela’s ability to bridge divides and bring people together around our common humanity
• Prepared to reflect deeply on my own leadership and undergo a process of personal change and growth

Offered Benefits

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

Application Process