Are you a bold, young African leader committed to driving change?
The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship 2025 offers a life-changing opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies at a leading South African university — fully funded.
This is more than a scholarship. It’s a leadership accelerator, a values-based program built on excellence, integrity, and service. If you're ready to grow, lead, and transform your community and continent, this is your moment.
Why Study in South Africa?
South Africa is not only home to some of Africa’s top-ranked universities (including UCT, Stellenbosch, and Wits), but also offers a dynamic cultural landscape and a front-row seat to the continent’s most pressing development conversations. From its world-class libraries to lively student activism, studying here positions you to learn, grow, and lead with continental insight.
What the Scholarship Covers
The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship removes financial barriers while enriching you intellectually and personally. It includes:
- Full Tuition at a recognized South African university
- Accommodation and Meals
- Books and Study Materials
- Medical Aid
- Personal Allowance
- Leadership Development Program: A year-long, immersive series of retreats, workshops, mentoring, and experiential learning focused on transformative leadership
Who Should Apply?
You are a strong candidate if you:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent)
- Are aged 19–29 at the time of application
- Demonstrate academic distinction (usually a GPA of 70% or higher)
- Show leadership potential in your community or field
- Are committed to social justice, equity, and ethical leadership
Applicants from all African countries are encouraged to apply.
How to Apply
Step 1: Research
Understand the values of the Mandela Rhodes Foundation and identify the postgraduate program best aligned with your goals.
Step 2: Prepare Your Materials
- Academic transcripts
- CV
- 3 letters of recommendation
- Personal essays detailing your leadership vision, growth journey, and commitment to social impact
Step 3: Apply Online
All applications are submitted via the Mandela Rhodes Foundation’s official portal. The application window typically opens in March and closes in April–May.
Why This Scholarship Stands Out
What sets this scholarship apart isn’t just the funding — it’s the leadership development journey. Scholars emerge not only with degrees but also with a pan-African network, a sharpened ethical compass, and the skills to drive inclusive, sustainable change.
Final Word
The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship is one of Africa’s most prestigious and transformative opportunities. If you're a visionary young leader ready to take your impact to the next level — now is the time to apply.
- Study at the best universities
- Join a continent-wide network of changemakers
- Lead with purpose
🗓️ Applications for 2025 are now open. Start your journey today by applying HERE