MINDS Scholarship Programme for African Students 2025: How to Apply

African postgraduate students with a passion for leadership and Pan‑African development can now apply for the MINDS Scholarship Programme 2025, a transformative opportunity to study outside their home country at top African universities. Whether you aim for a one- or two-year Honours or Master’s degree, the MINDS Scholarship offers tailored support, networking, and funding that propel future African leaders forward.

What Is the MINDS Scholarship Programme?

The Mandela Institute for Development Studies (MINDS) Scholarship Programme was launched to foster Pan‑African leadership through postgraduate education and experiential learning. Since 2017, MINDS has supported scholars across disciplines, emphasizing cross-border study, intercultural exchange, and development-oriented impact on the continent . The programme is managed by a Johannesburg-based think tank founded in 2010 by Dr Nkosana Moyo, focusing on governance, economic development, and African identity.

Who Is Eligible?

Eligible candidates must:

1. Be African nationals residing in any African country.
2. Have been formally accepted for postgraduate studies (Honours or Master’s) at a MINDS preferred institution outside their home country.
3. Have achieved at least 70% in every course in the last two years of study.
4. Demonstrate leadership ability and a strong Pan‑African mindset, as required by the application.
5. Submit a complete online application with all supporting documentation

What Does the Scholarship Cover?

The MINDS Scholarship may be full or partial, depending on merit and need. It typically covers:

• Tuition fees
• Accommodation and meals
• One return flight per study duration
• A fixed stipend for living expenses

These terms apply for full-time postgraduate study durations of one or two years at recognised institutions across Africa .

List of Preferred Institutions

You must be accepted into one of these universities:

East Africa

1. African Leadership University (Rwanda)
2. Carnegie Mellon University (Rwanda)
3. Makerere University (Uganda)
4. Strathmore University (Kenya)
5. Universidade de Cabo Verde (Cabo Verde)
6. Université Libre de Kigali (Rwanda)

Southern Africa

1. African Leadership University (Mauritius)
2. University of Cape Town (South Africa)
3. University of Mauritius (Mauritius)
4. University of Witwatersrand (South Africa)
5. Universidade Agostinho Neto (Angola)

North Africa

1. Al Akhawayn University (Morocco)
2. Université Cadi Ayyad (Morocco)
3. Université Mohammed V (Morocco)
4. Cairo University (Egypt)
5. Ain Shams University (Egypt)
6. Alexandria University (Egypt)
7. Assiut University (Egypt)

West Africa

1. Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology (Ghana)
2. Pan-Atlantic University / Lagos Business School (Nigeria)
3. University of Development Studies (Ghana)
4. Institut National Polytechnique Félix Houphouët-Boigny (Ivory Coast)
5. Cheikh Anta Diop University (Senegal)
6. University of Ghana (Ghana)
7. University of Ibadan (Nigeria)

How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide

•  Obtain formal acceptance from a MINDS preferred institution (outside your home country).
• Prepare digital copies (≤2 MB, PDF) of:

1. Passport bio page
2. Academic transcripts (last two years)
3. Official admission letter (degree, academic year, duration)
4. Study permit/visa or application proof (if available)
5. CV/Resume (max 4 pages)
6. Two reference letters (max 3 pages each), highlighting leadership, integrity, and commitment to Africa’s development

• Submit the completed online application form on the MINDS portal, uploading all required documents.
• Applications are processed on a rolling basis, submit promptly after acceptance to boost chances

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Why This Scholarship Matters

• Pan‑African exposure: Study in diverse academic and cultural contexts to broaden perspectives and networks.
• Leadership development: Access tailored activities designed to nurture continental leaders and collaborative agents of change.
• Holistic support: Funding covers living essentials, allowing scholars to focus fully on studies and impact.
• Prestigious community: Join a growing cohort of MINDS alumni making strides in governance, economics, technology, health, and social justice across Africa

Tips for a Strong Application

• Only complete applications are considered
• Consider applying to non-South African institutions to increase chances
• Focus your application on leadership, Pan-Africanism, and academic excellence

The MINDS Scholarship Programme for 2025 presents a rare, fully or partially funded pathway for African scholars to pursue postgraduate study outside their home country, combining academic rigor with leadership development. This opportunity empowers ambitious African students to shape the future of their communities and the continent. Eligible applicants are encouraged to gather their documents and apply immediately to secure a life‑changing experience.