The MINDS Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development 2025 is now open, offering a unique opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies at a top African institution outside your home country.
Established by the Mandela Institute for Development Studies (MINDS) in 2017, this scholarship supports future leaders committed to Africa’s transformation. By enabling students to study in other African countries, it promotes continental integration, cross-cultural exchange, and leadership development.
About the MINDS Scholarship
The MINDS Scholarship Programme is designed to nurture exceptional individuals with a strong academic background, leadership potential, and a commitment to pan-African progress. Selected scholars receive full or partial financial support to pursue a postgraduate degree, while becoming part of a growing network of African changemakers.
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Who Can Apply?
The opportunity is open to students from across Africa who meet the following requirements:
- Must be an African national and resident of any African country
- Must have been accepted into a MINDS-preferred institution outside their country of origin
- Must have achieved at least 70% in each subject/course in the final two years of their most recent academic studies
- Must demonstrate leadership potential and a clear interest in contributing to Africa’s development
What the Scholarship Covers
The MINDS Scholarship may cover any or all of the following:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation and meals
- A fixed stipend
- One return flight ticket (for the duration of the study programme)
- Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and upload the following documents in PDF format, not exceeding 2MB per file:
- Bio page of your passport
- Certified academic transcripts from the past two years
- Letter of acceptance from a MINDS-preferred university (must include your name, programme, start year, and duration)
- Study permit/visa or proof of application (optional but encouraged)
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) — not more than 4 pages
Two reference letters (not exceeding 3 pages each) that speak to your:
- Integrity
- Leadership potential
- Dedication to African development
How to Apply for the MINDS Scholarship
- Fill out the online application form on the official MINDS website
- Upload all required documents in the proper format
- Ensure the clarity and accuracy of all submitted files
- There is no fixed deadline, but early submission is strongly advised
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Why You Should Apply?
The MINDS Scholarship is more than just financial aid — it’s a platform for developing Africa’s next generation of visionary leaders. It provides access to quality education, diverse cultural experiences, and an expanding network of peers focused on the same mission: transforming Africa from within.
- Programme: Postgraduate studies in Africa (outside your home country)
- Host Countries: Any African country (excluding your country of residence)
- Funding Body: Mandela Institute for Development Studies (MINDS)
- Deadline: Rolling basis (apply early)
- Application Format: Online only
- Documents Required: Yes (PDF, 2MB max each)
- Eligibility: African nationals only
- Coverage: Tuition, accommodation, flight, stipend (full or partial)
APPLY FOR THE MINDS SCHOLARSHIP
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