MINDS Scholarship 2025

Applications for the MINDS Scholarship are open for the 2025 academic year. Interested students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as applications are accepted on a rolling basis.

MINDS Scholarship 2025

About MINDS Scholarship

The Mandela Institute for Development Studies (MINDS) is a pan-African institute focused on addressing Africa’s development challenges holistically. Established to foster continent-wide cooperation, MINDS offers various programs, including the Scholarship Programme for Leadership Development in Africa. This scholarship was launched in 2017 to develop young leaders who will drive African unity and progress by studying in an African country outside their own.

Fields Covered by MINDS Scholarship

The MINDS Scholarship supports postgraduate (Honours or Master’s degree) studies in any field at selected African universities. The scholarship is available to students from any African country who study outside their country of residence.

Requirements for MINDS Scholarship

To be eligible, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Citizenship: Must be a national of any African country.
• Residence: Must reside in an African country.
• Institution: Must have been accepted to study at an approved university outside their country of citizenship and residence.
• Level of Study: Must be enrolling in a full-time Honours or Master’s degree program.
• Academic Performance: Must have achieved at least 70% in each subject/course in the last two years of completed studies.
• Leadership Potential: Must provide evidence of demonstrated or potential leadership abilities.

Approved Institutions by MINDS Scholarship

• Southern Africa: University of Cape Town, University of Witwatersrand, African Leadership University (Mauritius), University of Mauritius.
• East Africa: African Leadership University (Rwanda), Carnegie Mellon University (Rwanda), Makerere University (Uganda), Strathmore University (Kenya).
• North Africa: Al Akhawayn University, Université Cadi Ayyad, Université Mohammed V (all in Morocco).
• West Africa: Pan-Atlantic University (Nigeria), Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology (Ghana), University of Development Studies (Ghana).

Required Documents for MINDS Scholarship

Applicants must submit the following documents in PDF format (maximum file size: 2MB per document):

• Copy of passport bio-data page.
• Certified copy of academic transcripts for the last two years.
• Official university acceptance letter.
• Detailed Curriculum Vitae (maximum 4 pages).
• Valid study permit/visa or proof of application.
• Two reference letters (maximum 3 pages each), addressing leadership qualities and commitment to Africa’s development.

How to Apply for MINDS Scholarship

The application process is entirely online:

1. Register an account at MINDS Scholarship Application.
2. Log in and complete the application form.
3. Upload all required documents.
4. Submit your application.
5. Receive an email confirmation within 30 minutes of submission.

Important Dates for MINDS Scholarship

• Opening Date: Applications are open throughout the year.
• Closing Date: There is no deadline; applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.
• Selection Process: Applicants will receive feedback within two months of submission.

Contact Information

For any queries regarding the MINDS Scholarship, contact:

• Email: [email protected]

The MINDS Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for aspiring leaders who are passionate about Africa’s development. If you meet the criteria, apply today to take the next step toward a brighter future. Don't miss out on this chance to broaden your horizons and contribute to Africa’s progress!