Deadline: April 14, 2026.

The scholarship combines financial support with a leadership programme that will challenge you, grow you, and connect you to young African changemakers – just like you.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

1. The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship is competitive. It is for young leaders who have a combination of intellect and character. You must be academically strong: your marks should be above 70% or an upper second.
2. You must also have demonstrated leadership on your campus or in your community.
3. If you are between the ages of 19 and 29 in the year of applying, you are eligible. As long as you are under the age of 30 at the time you take up the scholarship, you are eligible to apply.
4. Students who are citizens of an African country, no matter where they are currently living or studying, are eligible.
5. The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship is for postgraduate study (Honours and Masters degrees) in any field. 

BENEFITS

• 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 grant 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.

APPLICATION

1. You must apply online.
2. You can log onto their applications platform to access your application and upload your documents and essays.
3. The three people who write your recommendation letters must also log onto the platform to upload their letters directly.
4. You must give them plenty of time to write their letters, sign onto the platform, and upload them.
5. Your application cannot be submitted without the letters and will not be considered

Find more information on the OFFICIAL WEBSITE