How to Apply for Mandela Rhodes Scholarship for Africans 2025: Fully Funded Postgraduate Study in South Africa
Applications are now open for the 2025 Mandela Rhodes Scholarship! This prestigious scholarship offers full funding, leadership development, and the opportunity to connect with changemakers across Africa.
- Covers tuition, accommodation, travel, and more.
- Open to postgraduate (Honours & Master’s) students in all fields except MBA.
- Study at top South African universities.
About the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship
The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship is a transformative leadership program for young African leaders, combining comprehensive financial support with a leadership development curriculum inspired by Nelson Mandela’s legacy.
Scholars receive full funding for postgraduate studies at a recognized South African university. This includes:
✔️ Tuition & registration fees
✔️ Accommodation & meals
✔️ Study materials
✔️ Travel expenses
✔️ Medical aid
✔️ Personal allowance
✔️ Research & conference grants (on request)
In addition, scholars participate in a leadership development program with week-long residential workshops, mentoring, and networking opportunities.
Who Can Apply for the Madela Rhodes Scholarship?
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Have a minimum academic average of 70% or an upper second-class Honours degree
- Be between 19 and 29 years old (under 30 by the time the scholarship starts)
- Complete their undergraduate degree by 1 January 2026 (if applying in 2025)
- Show leadership experience in community or campus activities
- Meet the specific course entry requirements of their chosen university
- Apply separately to their university of choice (Mandela Rhodes Foundation does not apply on behalf of students)
- Study in English and commit to attending mandatory workshops
Selection Criteria
Applicants are chosen based on their leadership potential and commitment to transforming Africa. The selection committee looks for:
- Leadership – Visionary leaders with integrity and a commitment to positive change.
- Reconciliation – A willingness to engage in meaningful dialogue and contribute to peacebuilding.
- Education – Academic excellence combined with a passion for making an impact.
- Entrepreneurship – Innovative thinkers who drive change and contribute to Africa’s development.
Eligible Fields of Study
✔️ All postgraduate fields (Honours & Master’s) except MBA.
Where Will You Study?
Mandela Rhodes Scholars can study at any of the following South African universities:
- University of Fort Hare
- University of Free State
- University of Johannesburg
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
- University of Limpopo
- University of Pretoria
- University of Stellenbosch
- University of the Western Cape
- University of the Witwatersrand
- University of Venda
- University of Zululand
- Vaal University of Technology
- Walter Sisulu University
- AFDA, the School for the Creative Economy
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Durban University of Technology
- Mangosuthu University of Technology
- Monash University
How Long Does the Scholarship Last?
Up to 2 years (depending on the duration of the chosen degree).
How to Apply for the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship 2025
Follow these steps to apply:
- Visit the official Mandela Rhodes Foundation website
- Check the eligibility requirements and gather your documents.
- Complete the online application form before the deadline.
- Apply separately to your chosen university in South Africa.
When is the application deadline?
The application deadline is 21 April.
Why is the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship Important?
The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship is more than just financial aid—it’s an opportunity to:
- Receive world-class education in South Africa.
- Develop leadership skills through exclusive training programs.
- Join a powerful network of changemakers across Africa.
Apply here at the official Mandela Rhodes Website
