SCHOLARSHIP: The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship 2025: A Prestigious Opportunity for Young African Leaders Deadline: 21-04-2025

Introduction

The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship is one of Africa’s most prestigious postgraduate funding opportunities. Established by the Mandela Rhodes Foundation (MRF) in 2003, the scholarship aims to support young African leaders who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to driving positive change in their communities.

The program blends financial support with a leadership development curriculum, empowering scholars to lead with integrity and impact across the continent.

What Does the Scholarship Cover?

The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship provides comprehensive financial support, including:
✔️ Full Tuition Fees for a one-year Honours degree or a two-year Master’s degree at a recognized South African university.
✔️ Accommodation and Meals during the study period.
✔️ Study Materials and Research Allowance to support academic needs.
✔️ Medical Insurance to cover health-related expenses.
✔️ Personal Allowance for daily living expenses.
✔️ Travel Costs for students moving to South Africa from another country.

Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)

The scholarship is open to citizens of all African countries, provided they meet the following requirements:
🔹 Nationality: Must be a citizen of an African country.
🔹 Age Limit: Applicants must be between 19 and 30 years old at the time of application.
🔹 Academic Qualifications: Must hold a Bachelor’s degree with excellent academic performance (at least 70% or an upper second-class equivalent).
🔹 University Admission: Must be eligible to study at a recognized university in South Africa.
🔹 Leadership Qualities: Must demonstrate strong leadership potential, integrity, and a commitment to making a positive impact in Africa.

Eligible African Countries

The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship is open to all African countries, including but not limited to:

• East Africa: Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Ethiopia, Burundi, South Sudan, Somalia
• West Africa: Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, Sierra Leone, Gambia
• Southern Africa: South Africa, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia, Botswana, Malawi, Mozambique, Lesotho, Eswatini
• North Africa: Egypt, Algeria, Tunisia, Morocco, Sudan
• Central Africa: Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Cameroon, Chad, Angola, Gabon

Eligible Study Programmes

The Mandela Rhodes Scholarship is applicable for Honours (one-year) and Master’s (two-year) degrees in any field of study at a recognized university in South Africa. This includes disciplines such as:

🎓 Business & Economics
🎓 Science & Technology
🎓 Engineering & Mathematics
🎓 Social Sciences & Humanities
🎓 Arts & Literature
🎓 Environmental Studies

Additional Benefits of the Scholarship

Apart from funding, scholars gain access to:

✅ Leadership Development Program: A transformative leadership journey, including four residential workshops over the scholarship period.
✅ Networking Opportunities: Access to the Mandela Rhodes Alumni Network and connections with leaders across Africa.
✅ Mentorship & Personal Growth: Scholars receive mentorship and coaching to support their career and personal development.
✅ A Unique Community: Being part of an elite network of young African changemakers inspired by the leadership values of Nelson Mandela.

Application Deadline

📅 The deadline for the 2025 Mandela Rhodes Scholarship is April 21, 2025.

How to Apply?

Applications must be submitted online through the Mandela Rhodes Foundation website. The process includes:

1️⃣ Creating an Account on the application portal.
2️⃣ Submitting Academic Transcripts and Degree Certificates.
3️⃣ Uploading a CV/Resume highlighting achievements.
4️⃣ Writing Motivational Essays showcasing leadership experience and future goals.
5️⃣ Providing Recommendation Letters from academic or professional referees.

Application Timeline for 2025 Intake

How to Apply?

Applications must be submitted online through the Mandela Rhodes Foundation website. The process includes:

1️⃣ Creating an Account on the application portal.
2️⃣ Submitting Academic Transcripts and Degree Certificates.
3️⃣ Uploading a CV/Resume highlighting achievements.
4️⃣ Writing Motivational Essays showcasing leadership experience and future goals.
5️⃣ Providing Recommendation Letters from academic or professional referees.