The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship stands as one of Africa’s most prestigious and transformative academic awards, offering a unique blend of financial support and leadership development to outstanding young Africans pursuing postgraduate studies. Named in honor of Nelson Mandela and Cecil Rhodes, this scholarship is managed by the Mandela Rhodes Foundation in South Africa and embodies the vision of fostering exceptional leadership grounded in reconciliation, education, entrepreneurship, and ethical governance.

🌍 What Is the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship?

The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship funds one-year Honours or two-year Master’s degrees at any recognized South African university. But it is more than just a financial award—it is a leadership journey. The scholarship combines full tuition coverage, accommodation, a personal allowance, study materials, travel expenses, and medical aid, with a rigorous Leadership Development Programme designed to build transformative leaders for Africa.

The programme focuses on four core principles:

• Leadership

• Reconciliation

• Education

• Entrepreneurship

Selected scholars engage in residential workshops, mentorship, and peer learning, enriching their academic pursuits with critical reflections on African leadership, identity, and transformation.

🎓 Who Is Eligible?

The scholarship is open to:

• Citizens of any African country

• Aged between 19 and 30 years

• Holding a bachelor’s degree with academic excellence (minimum 70% average or upper second-class honors)

• Demonstrating leadership potential, integrity, and a commitment to community service and Africa’s development

Applicants must be ready to begin postgraduate study at a South African university in January or February of the following year.

🗓 Application Timeline and Process

Applications for the 2026 academic year will open in March 2025 and close in April 2025. The selection process is highly competitive and involves:

1. Online application submission with academic records, essays, and references

2. Preliminary screening

3. Interview stages with Mandela Rhodes Foundation panels

Successful applicants are notified by October, giving them ample time to enroll for the January intake.

Apply here: mandelarhodes.org

🌟 Why It Matters

The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship is more than an award—it is a platform for African transformation. Scholars become part of an influential and lifelong network of change-makers across disciplines, regions, and causes. Alumni include thought leaders, entrepreneurs, researchers, and policy influencers who are shaping the future of the continent.

One scholar described it as “a launchpad for African leaders who are deeply rooted in compassion, courage, and a commitment to justice.”

For talented young Africans ready to rise beyond academic excellence and become leaders of vision and integrity, the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship is a life-changing opportunity. Whether your passion lies in public policy, health, technology, the arts, or economics, this scholarship equips you with not only the means to learn but also the tools to lead.