FirstRand Postgrad Scholarships 2026 – Funding & How to Apply

The FirstRand Postgrad Scholarships are prestigious postgraduate funding opportunities offered through the FirstRand Foundation. These scholarships help South African students pursue Masters and PhD degrees abroad at top international universities. The aim is to develop future leaders, innovators and impact-driven professionals who can contribute to South Africa’s growth after completing their studies.

Sponsor of the Scholarships

The scholarships are sponsored and administered by the FirstRand Foundation in partnership with FirstRand Group companies. The Foundation invests in education and skills development to empower talented South African graduates and expand opportunities for postgraduate study.

Who Can Apply

FirstRand Postgraduate Scholarships are open to applicants who:

• Are South African citizens
• Wish to study a full-time postgraduate degree (Masters or PhD) abroad
• Have excellent academic performance
• Demonstrate leadership qualities, strength of character and community involvement
• Show potential to be a “destiny changer” in their chosen field
• Are usually under the age of 35
• Have not previously studied overseas for a degree

Applicants must apply and be accepted by the international university they wish to attend before or during the bursary application process.

Types of Scholarships Available

There are several FirstRand postgraduate scholarship streams available:

• Laurie Dippenaar Scholarships — up to R1.5 million for a Masters or up to R2 million for a PhD
• Empowerment Foundation Scholarships — postgraduate support for previously disadvantaged students
• Oxford African Studies Scholarship (Master’s at Oxford)
• Blavatnik School of Government Scholarship (Master of Public Policy)
• Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment Scholarship (Masters in Sustainability)
• IHE Delft Water Education Scholarship (Masters in Water & Sustainability)
• IE School of Science and Technology Scholarships (Masters in Business Analytics, Computer & Business Technology)
• Mandela Scholarships for Masters degrees at the University of Sussex

Up to twelve scholarships are typically awarded each year depending on available funding and applicant strength.

What the Scholarships Cover

Successful FirstRand Postgrad Scholarship recipients generally receive:

• Full or partial tuition coverage at the chosen international university
• A generous living stipend for accommodation and daily expenses
• Funding support for research, books, and study materials
• Travel support where applicable
• Networking and leadership development opportunities through scholarship events and alumni connections

Awards are subject to funding availability and may vary between scholarship types and institutions.

How to Apply

To apply for a FirstRand Postgrad Scholarship:

• Apply for admission to the international university and receive an offer of acceptance
• Complete the FirstRand postgraduate scholarship application form online
• Attach all required supporting documentation, including academic records, acceptance letter, CV, motivation letter and references
• Submit your application by the deadline for the 2026 intake
• Ensure that reference letters are received before the closing date

Late or incomplete applications are generally not considered.

Selection Process

Applications are evaluated based on academic merit, leadership potential, community involvement and personal drive. The process typically includes:

• Preliminary evaluation of applications
• Long-listing candidates for interviews (in person or online)
• Final selection and announcement of successful scholars

Successful applicants are notified ahead of the academic year start.

Why FirstRand Postgrad Scholarships Matter

These scholarships provide life-changing opportunities for South African students to gain world-class postgraduate education. They are designed to:

• Develop future leaders, innovators and experts in diverse fields
• Enhance South Africa’s skills base and global competitiveness
• Encourage scholars to return home and contribute to the country’s development for at least five years after graduation

By combining financial support with leadership development, the FirstRand Postgrad Scholarships help scholars make meaningful contributions to society.

Final Thoughts

If you are a South African graduate with strong academic performance, leadership potential and a desire to pursue postgraduate study overseas, the FirstRand Postgrad Scholarships could provide the support you need to reach your goals. Prepare your documents carefully, secure acceptance from an international university, and apply before the deadline to maximise your chances of success.