The Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship is one of the most prestigious scholarships available to African students.
It aims to develop exceptional leadership capacity in Africa by providing comprehensive support for postgraduate study.
Overview
Purpose: The Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship seeks to build exceptional leadership capacity in Africa through postgraduate education and leadership development programs.
Duration: The scholarship is awarded for a period of up to two years, depending on the duration of the postgraduate program.
Benefits
Financial Support:
- Tuition and Registration Fees: The scholarship covers all tuition and registration fees for the duration of the postgraduate program.
- Accommodation and Meals: It provides full coverage for accommodation and meals.
- Study Materials: Includes an allowance for study materials.
- Personal Allowance: A personal stipend to cover additional living expenses.
- Travel Costs: Provides funding for travel to and from the university at the beginning and end of the academic year.
Leadership Development:
- Leadership Workshops: Recipients participate in leadership development workshops and seminars.
- Mentorship: Access to mentorship programs to guide scholars in their academic and personal development.
- Networking: Opportunities to connect with other scholars and alumni, fostering a strong network of future African leaders.
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Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for the Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Citizenship: Must be a citizen of any African country.
- Age: Candidates should be between 19 and 30 years old at the time of applying.
- Academic Excellence: Must have a strong academic record with a minimum of a second-class upper division (70% or above) or equivalent.
- Leadership Potential: Demonstrated leadership ability and commitment to making a difference in their community and continent.
- Reconciliation and Ethics: A commitment to reconciliation, ethical leadership, and a broader sense of social justice.
Application Process
Application Timeline:
- Opening Date: Applications typically open in March each year.
- Closing Date: The application deadline is usually in April.
- Selection Process: Shortlisted candidates are notified by July, and interviews are conducted in August and September. Final selections are announced in October.
Application Steps:
- Online Application: Submit an online application form through the Mandela Rhodes Foundation website.
- Supporting Documents:
- Academic transcripts and certificates.
- Two recommendation letters (one academic, one professional or personal).
- A personal statement detailing your leadership experience, commitment to reconciliation, and future goals.
- Essays: Applicants are required to write essays on specified topics related to leadership and social justice.
- Interview: Shortlisted candidates will undergo an interview process to assess their suitability for the scholarship.
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2025 Applications
Important Dates for 2025:
- Applications Open: March 2025
- Applications Close: April 2025
- Notification of Shortlisted Candidates: July 2025
- Interviews: August to September 2025
- Final Selections Announced: October 2025
How to Prepare:
- Research: Understand the foundation’s mission, values, and previous scholars’ achievements.
- Network: Connect with current and past Mandela Rhodes Scholars to gain insights into the application process.
- Develop Leadership Skills: Engage in leadership activities and community service to build a strong application profile.
- Gather Documentation: Ensure all academic records, recommendation letters, and personal statements are ready well before the deadline.
Stipend
Monthly Stipend: The personal allowance provided is designed to cover living expenses, including books, internet access, and other personal costs. While the exact amount can vary, it is generally sufficient to ensure scholars can focus fully on their studies and leadership development without financial concerns.
Travel Allowance: Covers costs for travel to and from the university at the start and end of each academic year, as well as travel for leadership development workshops.