Hey future African leaders! Ready to make a real impact on our continent? The Mandela Institute for Development Studies (MINDS) Postgraduate Bursary is here to help you do just that!
This incredible opportunity is designed for bright, aspiring leaders from across Africa who want to pursue postgraduate studies outside their home country, but still right here on our amazing continent.
The MINDS Postgraduate Bursary Programme isn’t just about paying for your studies; it’s about nurturing the next generation of Pan-African leaders. Launched in 2017, this programme aims to develop young people with a continent-wide mindset, fostering greater cooperation and development across African nations. If you dream of leading change and connecting Africa, this bursary could be your stepping stone! It supports full-time Honours or Master’s degrees (one or two-year programmes) at MINDS preferred institutions across Africa.
Who Can Apply?
MINDS is looking for exceptional individuals who are passionate about Africa’s future. To be considered for this bursary, make sure you tick these boxes:
- You must be a national of an African country and currently residing in any African country.
- You need to have been formally accepted by one or more of MINDS’ preferred institutions, outside of your country of citizenship or residency, for postgraduate studies commencing in the upcoming year (e.g., 2026).
- Your academic record should be strong, with at least 70% in each subject/course in your last two years of study.
- You’ll need to demonstrate your leadership abilities or potential, as guided by the application form questions.
- Submit a complete online application with all required supporting documents.
What Does It Cover?
The MINDS Postgraduate Bursary offers comprehensive support, helping you focus on your studies and leadership development. Depending on whether you receive a partial or full scholarship, the bursary may cover some or all of the following:
- Tuition Fees: Your university costs are sorted.
- Accommodation and Meals: A place to stay and food to keep you going.
- Return Ticket: One return flight for the duration of your studies, making travel easier.
- Fixed Stipend: Funds to help with your living expenses.
How to Apply?
Ready to embark on this leadership journey? Here’s what you need to do:
The application deadline is currently unspecified, so it’s best to apply as soon as you meet the criteria! Gather your documents and apply online. Ensure all documents are scanned, saved in PDF format, and each attachment does not exceed 2MB in size.
You’ll need these documents:
- A copy of your passport’s data/bio page.
- A certified academic transcript/results slip from your last two years of study.
- Your official university acceptance letter. This letter must clearly state it’s addressed to you, the degree you’ve been accepted for, the academic year of commencement, and the course duration.
- A copy of a valid study permit or visa, OR proof that you’ve applied for one (this is optional at the time of initial application).
- A detailed CV/Resume, no more than four single-sided pages.
- Two reference letters (each no more than three pages) that speak to your integrity, leadership competency/potential, and your commitment to African development.
For more information and to submit your application, visit the official MINDS webpage:
Visit the Official MINDS Postgraduate Bursary Programme Webpage
If shaping Africa’s future through leadership and cross-continental study sounds like your calling, then the MINDS Postgraduate Bursary is definitely one to explore! Don’t let this incredible opportunity pass you by – get your application ready today. And remember, Bursaries Room is always here to help you find more funding opportunities for your academic dreams!
