Applications are currently open for the 2026 Mandela Rhodes Foundation (MRF) Postgraduate Scholarships, which offer financial support along with a leadership program designed to challenge and connect young African changemakers.

To be eligible, applicants must be able to study at a postgraduate level in English, be citizens of African countries, and be between the ages of 19 and 29 by January 1, 2027. Additionally, they must hold an undergraduate degree with excellent academic results (above 70% or upper-second class Honours) by the specified date.

The scholarship provides comprehensive funding for tuition, registration fees, study materials, research, medical aid, accommodation, meals, personal allowances, and economy class travel to and from South Africa. The leadership development program focuses on principles of reconciliation, education, entrepreneurship, and leadership, aiming to equip young African leaders with the competence and courage to transform the continent.

It also includes week-long residential workshops during the program. Benefits include tuition and registration fees, study materials allowance, accommodation and meal allowances, medical aid allowance, personal allowance, research and conferencing grants, and economy-class flights for international scholars.

2026 UPDATE: The Scholarship is open for all applicants from Africa

scroll down below for more details and click on the official link attached to apply