FirstRand Scholarships 2026 Now Open for Applications
The FirstRand Scholarships 2026 programme is officially open, offering one of the most prestigious international Master’s funding opportunities available to South African graduates.
A total of 12 fully funded scholarshipsare available for exceptional students who demonstrate academic excellence, strong leadership ability, and a commitment to contributing meaningfully to South Africa’s future.
Successful scholars will study at some of the world’s leading universities — including Oxford (UK), IE University (Spain), IHE Delft (Netherlands), and the University of Sussex (UK) — before returning to South Africa to apply their skills locally.
📌 Closing Date: 19 February 2026 📅 Applications opened: 20 October 2025 📢 Final results expected: Before end of June 2026
If you are academically driven, leadership-oriented, and committed to national impact, this scholarship could redefine your career path.
What Makes the FirstRand Scholarships 2026 So Prestigious?
The FirstRand Scholarships programme is widely regarded as one of South Africa’s most competitive postgraduate funding initiatives.
It is not simply about academic funding. The programme seeks to develop:
Ethical leaders
Strategic thinkers
Social innovators
“Destiny changers”
Recipients are expected to demonstrate integrity, resilience, and long-term commitment to South Africa’s development.
Unlike many international scholarships, this programme requires scholars to return to South Africa for at least five years after completing their studies. This ensures that global expertise directly contributes to local progress.
Quick Facts at a Glance
Number of Scholarships: 12
Study Level: Master’s (Postgraduate)
Study Location: International universities
Eligibility: South African citizens only
Previous International Study: Not permitted
Return Requirement: Minimum 5 years in South Africa
Competition is intense, and selection panels reserve the right not to award a scholarship if standards are not met.
Scholarship Streams Available in 2026
The FirstRand Scholarships 2026 intake includes multiple streams designed to support diverse fields of study.
While the FirstRand Scholarships 2026 focus on international Master’s funding, exploring multiple pathways strengthens your overall career planning.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the FirstRand Scholarship fully funded?
Yes. It provides comprehensive support for international Master’s study.
Can I apply if I have previously studied overseas?
No. Applicants must not have completed a previous international degree.
Is the five-year return requirement mandatory?
Yes. Scholars must return to South Africa for at least five years.
How competitive is the programme?
Extremely competitive. Only 12 scholarships are awarded.
Does the scholarship guarantee permanent employment?
No. While it offers significant exposure and networking, employment is not guaranteed.
Final Insight: A Transformational Opportunity
The FirstRand Scholarships 2026represent one of the most prestigious international postgraduate funding opportunities available to South African graduates.
With only 12 awards available, preparation is critical. Academic excellence alone is not enough — applicants must demonstrate leadership, integrity, and a clear vision for contributing to South Africa.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and aspire to global academic excellence with local impact, ensure your application is submitted before 19 February 2026.
This is not just about studying abroad. It is about returning home prepared to shape South Africa’s future.
Nonhlanhla Ndlovu is the founder and publisher of EduFeeds, a South Africa–focused platform that shares verified learnerships, internships, bursaries, and job opportunities for young people and job seekers.
With a strong focus on helping South African youth access real career opportunities, Nonhlanhla researches and verifies programmes from official company sources and public announcements before publication. EduFeeds aims to simplify the application process by providing clear guidance, requirements, and practical tips to help applicants apply with confidence.
Nonhlanhla continues to monitor updates from SETAs, companies, and training providers to ensure information on Edu Feeds remains current and useful. She focuses on publishing timely and accurate opportunity updates for the South African youth employment market.
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