The Mandela Institute for Development Studies (MINDS) offers scholarships to African students who want to pursue postgraduate studies in Africa but outside their home country.
MINDS Scholarship 2025
The MINDS Scholarship program aims to build a new generation of leaders who will drive Africa’s growth and unity.
Study Fields Covered by the Bursary
MINDS does not specify particular courses.
Students can choose any field of study at one of the preferred institutions listed under the scholarship.
Bursary Coverage
The MINDS Scholarship can be either full or partial, covering some or all of the following expenses:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation and meals
- One return flight ticket for the duration of the study
- A fixed stipend for personal expenses
Funding Duration and Renewal
The scholarship is available for full-time Honors or Master’s degree programs lasting one or two years.
Renewal is subject to academic performance and adherence to the scholarship conditions.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the MINDS Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be a citizen of an African country and reside in any African country.
- Have secured admission to a MINDS preferred institution outside their home country.
- Have achieved at least 70% in each subject in the last two years of study.
- Demonstrate leadership qualities through academic or extracurricular activities.
- Submit a fully completed online application with all required documents.
Steps to Apply
- Ensure you meet all eligibility criteria.
- Secure admission at one of the MINDS preferred institutions.
- Gather and scan all required documents in PDF format (each not exceeding 2MB in size):
- A copy of your passport bio-data page.
- Certified academic transcripts for the last two years.
- An official acceptance letter from the university.
- A valid study permit or visa (if applicable).
- A detailed CV (maximum four pages).
- Two reference letters (maximum three pages each) covering integrity, leadership potential, and commitment to Africa’s development.
- Submit the online application with all required documents.
Application Deadline
There is no deadline for applications. MINDS accepts applications throughout the year.
However, applicants are encouraged to apply early to increase their chances.
For more details, contact MINDS at:
- Phone: +27 (0) 11 325 0501
- Email: info@minds-africa.org