FirstRand International Postgraduate Scholarships South Africa 2026

The FirstRand International Postgraduate Scholarships 2026 are prestigious funding opportunities offered by FirstRand Limited to support South African citizens pursuing postgraduate studies (Master’s or PhD) at international universities. These scholarships aim to develop future leaders, innovators and changemakers who will return to South Africa and contribute meaningfully to the country’s social and economic growth. Firstrand Bursaries+1

This guide provides everything you need to know about the different scholarship streams, eligibility criteria, application steps, important dates, and FAQs.

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What Are the FirstRand International Postgraduate Scholarships?

FirstRand offers multiple postgraduate scholarship awards for full‑time international study, including:

FirstRand Laurie Dippenaar Scholarship — general international postgraduate award
FirstRand Empowerment Foundation Scholarship — for previously disadvantaged South Africans
FirstRand Oxford African Studies Scholarship — MSc at the Oxford School of Global and Area Studies
FirstRand Oxford Blavatnik School of Government Scholarship — Master of Public Policy at Oxford
FirstRand Oxford Smith School of Enterprise and the Environment Scholarship — MSc in Sustainability, Enterprise & Environment at Oxford
FirstRand IHE Delft Water Education Scholarship — MSc in Water and Sustainable Development
FirstRand IE School of Science and Technology Scholarship — Masters in Business Analytics & Big Data or Computer & Business Technology
FirstRand Mandela Scholarship (University of Sussex) — postgraduate funding for any discipline at the University of Sussex Firstrand Bursaries

These awards fund postgraduate study outside South Africa at prestigious universities worldwide. Firstrand Bursaries

Purpose of the Scholarships

The scholarships are designed to:

Support academically excellent South African postgraduate students
Promote leadership and innovation
Fund world‑class international study
Encourage graduates to return to South Africa and contribute to national development
Build a network of future change‑makers and industry leaders Firstrand Bursaries

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a FirstRand International Postgraduate Scholarship, applicants must:

Be South African citizens
Have strong academic performance
Demonstrate leadership potential, community involvement, strength of character, and impact potential
Not currently or previously have studied overseas for degree purposes
Have already applied to or be accepted by an international university when applying for the scholarship
Be willing to return to South Africa for at least five years after completing their studies
Preferably be under 35 years old (for some scholarship streams) Firstrand Bursaries+1

What the Scholarships Cover

Although specific benefits vary by award, the scholarships generally offer substantial support including:

Tuition fees
Living and subsistence allowances
Travel costs
Approved study‑related expenses

Exact coverage depends on the scholarship type and host university guidelines.

How to Apply (Step‑by‑Step)

1. Apply to Your Chosen University First

Before applying for the FirstRand Scholarship, you must apply directly to the international university where you intend to study and obtain an acceptance letter. Firstrand Bursaries

2. Prepare Supporting Documents

Required documents typically include:

South African ID document
Academic transcripts and results
Proof of acceptance from the international university
Reference letters (at least two)
Leadership statement or personal motivation
CV or résumé Firstrand Bursaries

At least one reference must be academic if you finished university within the past six years; if you’ve been in the workforce longer, one reference may be non‑academic. Firstrand Bursaries

3. Complete the Online Application

Create an account on the FirstRand scholarship portal and complete the online application form. Firstrand Bursaries

4. Upload All Required Documents

Ensure every document is included before the closing date. Incomplete applications won’t be considered. Firstrand Bursaries

5. Submit Before the Deadline

Submit your application before the closing date (see below). Firstrand Bursaries

6. Send Acceptance Letter Later If Needed

If your acceptance letter arrives after the scholarship deadline, you must email it to firstrandpgscholarship@firstrand.co.za before 7 April 2026. Firstrand Bursaries

Important Dates (2026 Cycle)

Applications Open: Monday 20 October 2025
Applications Close: Thursday 19 February 2026
Acceptance Letter Deadline: No later than 7 April 2026
Interviews: March–May 2026
Final Announcement: Before the end of June 2026 Firstrand Bursaries+1

Selection Process

Initial Screening: Applications are evaluated by a panel including FirstRand staff and alumni.
Long List: Around 45 candidates are long‑listed for various awards.
Interviews: Long‑listed candidates are interviewed either electronically or in person.
Short List: Up to 12 are shortlisted for specialised awards and up to 10 for the main scholarships.
Final Decision: Announced before the end of June 2026. Firstrand Bursaries

Benefits of the Scholarship

Opportunity to study at world‑renowned international universities
Generous funding for tuition, living and study costs
Support for leadership development and networking
Enhances future career and research opportunities
Encourages return and contribution to South Africa’s development Firstrand Bursaries

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the FirstRand International Postgraduate Scholarship?

It’s a group of scholarships that fund postgraduate (Master’s and PhD) study abroad for talented South African citizens. Firstrand Bursaries

Who is eligible?

South African citizens with excellent academic records and strong leadership potential, who plan full‑time postgraduate study abroad. Firstrand Bursaries

Do I need a university offer before applying?

Yes — you must apply and ideally be accepted to your chosen international university before submitting your scholarship application. If acceptance arrives late, you can email it later. Firstrand Bursaries

Can I apply if I already studied overseas?

No — prior overseas degree study disqualifies you. Firstrand Bursaries

Do I have to return to South Africa after studying?

Yes — scholarship recipients must return to South Africa for at least five years after completing their studies. Firstrand Bursaries

Are there age preferences?

Preference is typically given to applicants under 35 years old. Firstrand Bursaries

Conclusion

The FirstRand International Postgraduate Scholarships 2026 are among South Africa’s most prestigious international funding opportunities, designed to enable postgraduate study abroad while developing future leaders with global exposure. By providing substantial financial support and a structured selection process, the programme helps outstanding South African scholars achieve their academic and professional dreams.