FirstRand International Postgraduate Scholarships

The FirstRand International Postgraduate Scholarships are among the most prestigious academic funding opportunities available to South African students who want to pursue postgraduate study overseas. Offered by FirstRand Limited through its scholarship programmes, these awards support talented and driven individuals to complete their Masters or Doctoral degrees at reputable international universities. The aim of the scholarship is to empower future leaders who will return home and use their skills to make a positive impact on South Africa’s development.

What the Scholarship Offers

The FirstRand International Postgraduate Scholarships provide substantial financial assistance for students to study abroad. Depending on the specific award, the scholarship may cover full tuition fees, living allowances, travel expenses, and other costs associated with postgraduate study. Some awards offer up to two million South African rand for PhD study and up to one and a half million rand for Master’s programmes.

There are several categories of scholarship available, including:

• The FirstRand Laurie Dippenaar Scholarship, which is open to South Africans in any field of study at an international university.
• The FirstRand Empowerment Foundation Scholarship, specifically aimed at previously disadvantaged South African citizens.
• Specialised awards that target particular postgraduate programmes at globally recognised institutions, such as studies in African affairs, public policy, sustainability, enterprise and environment, water and sustainable development, and other areas depending on partner universities.

In total there are around twelve scholarships offered each year, giving multiple exceptional students the opportunity to pursue further study abroad.

Who Can Apply

To be eligible for a FirstRand International Postgraduate Scholarship, applicants must be South African citizens who are planning to study full‑time at an international university outside South Africa. Candidates must have already submitted an application to their chosen university by the time they apply for the scholarship.

Applicants should demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership potential, community involvement, personal integrity, and the drive to become a change‑maker in their field. Scholars who have previously studied overseas for the purpose of a degree are not eligible.

While there is no strict age limit, preference is often given to individuals under the age of thirty‑five. All successful candidates are expected to return to South Africa for at least five years after completing their international studies to contribute to the nation’s growth.

Application Process and Requirements

Applying for the FirstRand International Postgraduate Scholarships involves completing an online application form and uploading all required supporting documents before the closing date. The typical documents required include:

• A copy of your South African identity document.
• Academic transcripts and certificates showing your previous qualifications and academic performance.
• Reference letters, including at least one academic reference if you finished university within the last six years.
• A personal statement or motivation letter that explains your goals, ambitions, and how you plan to use your postgraduate qualification to make a difference in South Africa.
• An acceptance letter or proof of application from the international university where you intend to study. If the acceptance letter is issued after the scholarship deadline, it must be submitted by email to the scholarship team by the specified later date.

Applications for the 2026 cycle open in October and close in February, with the deadline usually falling in mid‑February of each year.

Selection and Interview

Once applications are submitted, a panel reviews all entries and shortlists candidates based on academic excellence and the other core criteria. Long‑listed applicants may be invited to interviews, which can take place in person or virtually. Final scholarship recipients are typically announced several months after the closing date.

Why This Scholarship Matters

The FirstRand International Postgraduate Scholarships are more than financial aid. They are a gateway to world‑class education and global exposure, helping graduates bring back knowledge, innovation, and leadership to South Africa. Past recipients have gone on to contribute in diverse fields such as business, public policy, research, sustainability, science and technology, making this scholarship one of the most impactful opportunities for ambitious South African students.