Fully Funded South Africa Scholarships 2024/2025
Education is a vital tool for personal and societal development, and while it is a universal right, many students often find it challenging to access higher education due to financial constraints. The importance of education is why scholarships are critical.
For those seeking to further their education in South Africa, several fully-funded scholarships provide opportunities for local and international students. In this blog post, we will look at some of these scholarships and provide detailed information on how you can apply and secure one for your studies.
Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program
An eminent opportunity for South African students is the Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program. This program grants financial assistance to individuals hailing from World Bank member countries with a keen interest in pursuing studies related to development. These studies can be undertaken at selected global institutions of higher learning, including those located in South Africa.
Eligibility:
- Be a citizen of a developing country eligible for World Bank financing.
- Have at least 3 years of recent development-related work experience after your Bachelor’s degree.
- Be currently employed in development-related work in a paid full-time position.
- Hold a Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) earned at least 3 years prior to the application deadline.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to development work in your home country after completing your studies.
Benefits:
- Full tuition fees covered.
- Monthly living stipend.
- Round-trip airfare.
- Health insurance.
- Travel allowance.
- Access to a global network of fellow scholars and development professionals.
In essence, the Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program is a comprehensive opportunity that enables deserving students to further their education without the burden of financial constraints. It empowers them to contribute towards the development of their home country after they complete their studies.
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at the University of Cape Town (UCT)
The University of Cape Town (UCT) and the Mastercard Foundation have joined forces to cultivate the Scholars Program, an initiative designed to provide opportunities for economically disadvantaged yet academically gifted students from Sub-Saharan Africa. This unique program offers a chance to earn a quality education without the financial strain, paving the way for a brighter future.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT, you must:
- Be a citizen of a Sub-Saharan African country
- Have demonstrated academic excellence
- Show outstanding leadership potential
- Come from a disadvantaged background
- Be committed to returning to your home country after graduation to contribute to its development
Benefits
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT offers a comprehensive package of support, including:
- Full tuition fees covered
- Accommodation costs covered
- Monthly living stipend
- Medical insurance
- Academic and personal development support
- Mentorship opportunities
- Networking opportunities
How to Apply
The application process for the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT is competitive. To apply, you must first apply for admission to UCT for an undergraduate or postgraduate degree program. If you are shortlisted for the scholarship program, you will be invited to submit a separate scholarship application.
In essence, the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT offers a holistic approach to education. It understands that financial aid alone cannot guarantee academic success; hence, it goes beyond by offering other critical support mechanisms. By doing so, it empowers students from underprivileged backgrounds, allowing them to reach their full potential and make a positive impact in their communities.
Read Also: Fully Funded Senegal Scholarships
The Canon Collins Trust Scholarships
For individuals committed to creating positive social change through their education, The Canon Collins Trust Scholarships present an invaluable opportunity. The Trust offers scholarships to exceptional individuals from Southern African countries or those who hold refugee status there. The program supports postgraduate study in South Africa, with a focus on those studying or intending to pursue studies in the areas of justice, education, or humanities.
Who is eligible?
- Citizens of Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, Zambia, and Zimbabwe
- Individuals with a strong academic background and a bachelor’s degree
- Those with at least two years of work experience in a relevant field
- Demonstrated commitment to social justice and community development
- Applicants must meet the English language requirements of their chosen university
What do the scholarships cover?
- Full tuition fees for a postgraduate degree program
- Monthly living stipend
- Travel costs to and from the study location
- Health insurance
- Visa application fees
- Academic and personal development support
Types of Scholarships offered:
- Master’s Scholarships: Support individuals pursuing a one-year master’s degree in various fields such as education, law, public health, and theology.
- Doctoral Scholarships: Support individuals pursuing a PhD in research areas aligned with the Trust’s focus on social justice and community development.
- Ros Moger and Terry Furlong Memorial Scholarships: Awarded to exceptional individuals committed to social justice in southern Africa to pursue postgraduate studies in South Africa
Through this scholarship, The Canon Collins Trust not only provides financial aid but also cultivates a network of individuals who are bound by their shared commitment to social justice. Therefore, if you are a student from a Southern African country with a strong desire to leverage your education for social good, The Canon Collins Trust Scholarships can be your stepping stone towards achieving this objective.
FAQS
Can a foreigner get a scholarship in South Africa?
Yes, absolutely! Foreigners can definitely apply for scholarships in South Africa. Numerous scholarships like the Mandela Rhodes Scholarships, Canon Collins Trust Scholarships, and MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT specifically target international students from various regions. Additionally, many South African universities offer scholarships open to both domestic and international students.
What is the scholarship for international students in South Africa 2024?
There are many scholarships available for international students in South Africa in 2024. Some prominent options include:
- MasterCard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT: Provides full scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
- Canon Collins Trust Scholarships: Supports postgraduate studies in social justice and community development.
- Allan & Gill Gray Orbis Scholarships: Covers full tuition for outstanding South African students with leadership potential (open to other nationalities in some years).
- Rhodes Scholarships for Southern Africa: Supports exceptional students from specific Southern African countries for Master’s degrees at Oxford University.
- University-specific scholarships: Many universities offer their own scholarship programs for international students. Research specific universities you’re interested in.
How do you get a 100% scholarship?
Getting a full-ride scholarship can be a difficult feat, but there are some things you can do to increase your chances. First, make sure you have a strong academic record and are involved in extracurricular activities. Then, research scholarship opportunities that are a good fit for you, and apply for as many as possible. Be sure to pay close attention to the requirements and deadlines for each scholarship. Finally, write a compelling application essay and submit any other required materials on time. With a combination of hard work and good timing, you may be able to get a 100% scholarship.
What grades do you need to get a scholarship in South Africa?
Specific grade requirements vary depending on the scholarship. Most, however, require strong academic performance with high marks in relevant subjects. Check the eligibility criteria of each scholarship you’re interested in to know the exact grade requirements.
How do I get a high school scholarship in South Africa?
Several scholarship opportunities exist for high school students in South Africa. Here are some options:
- Government scholarships: The Department of Basic Education offers bursaries and scholarships for disadvantaged students.
- Private organizations: Numerous organizations like the National Lottery and NGOs offer scholarships based on merit or financial need.
- University-specific scholarships: Some universities offer scholarships to top-performing high school students entering their programs.
- Merit-based scholarships: Organizations like the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation offer scholarships based on exceptional academic performance.
Remember, research diligently, meet eligibility criteria, and apply strategically to increase your chances of securing a scholarship in South Africa. Good luck!
Conclusion
Numerous fully funded scholarships in South Africa are designed to ease this journey and empower students to reach their full potential. From the Joint Japan World Bank Graduate Scholarship Program, which supports students passionate about development studies, to the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at UCT, focusing on economically disadvantaged students, the opportunities are vast and diverse.
Take that step today, apply for these scholarships, and embark on your journey to academic success and societal impact. Let the journey to accessing quality education in South Africa be less of a struggle and more of an exciting adventure, buoyed by the support of these remarkable scholarships. After all, each scholarship granted is a step closer to a more educated, innovative, and prosperous society.
