Applications are invited from suitably qualified applicants for the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship 2026/2027 aimed at 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 2026 offers comprehensive funding for the core costs associated with candidates studies and covers tuition for a one-year Honours degree or a two-year Masters degree in any field at a recognized South African institution of higher education.
SUMMARY:
- Scholarship Sponsor(s): Mandela Rhodes Foundation
- Scholarship Type: Full Funding
- Host Institution(s): Institutions in South Africa
- Scholarship Worth: Not specified
- Number of Awards: Several
- Study Level: Postgraduate
- Nationality: Africans
See Also: 10 Best Universities in South Africa to Study Medicine
The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship 2026 | Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship 2026, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Applicants must be a citizen of an African country
- Be between the ages of 19 and 29
- Applicants can apply if they are completing their undergraduate degree in 2026, but it must be completed by 1 January 2027 before taking up the Scholarship.
- Demonstrate excellent academic and research abilities.
Scholarship Benefits
- Leadership development programme
- Tuition and registration fees
- Allowances for study materials, research, and medical aid, accommodation and meals
- Personal allowance
- Economy class travel to and from home country to South Africa at the beginning and end of studies.
Application Procedures
How-to-Apply: Interested applicants for the Mandela Rhodes Scholarships 2026/27 are to log onto the application portal to access their application and upload their documents and essays.
The three people who are to recommend applicants must also log onto the application portal to upload their letters directly.
Document Requirements:
- Three letters of recommendation written in English language.
- Degree certificates, transcripts of academic results, and scans of applicant’s ID and passport documents. Documents and transcripts must be provided in English.
- Two short essays, one on your personal journey, and one on a specific question relating to Mandela Rhodes Scholarships’ principles.
Application Deadline: 14 April 2026