FirstRand has officially opened applications for the FirstRand Scholarships 2026, a prestigious international postgraduate funding opportunity for high-achieving South African graduates.
A total of 12 scholarships are available for Master’s-level study at leading global universities. Successful scholars will be required to return to South Africa after graduation and contribute their skills to national development.
Closing Date: 19 February 2026
About the FirstRand Scholarships 2026
The FirstRand Scholarship Programme aims to develop ethical leaders, innovators, and destiny changers who demonstrate:
- Outstanding academic achievement
- Strong leadership potential
- Commitment to community involvement
- Integrity and strength of character
This is one of South Africa’s most competitive and respected international scholarship programmes.
Quick Facts
- Number of Scholarships: 12
- Study Level: Master’s (Postgraduate)
- Study Location: International
- Citizenship: South African citizens only
- Applications Opened: 20 October 2025
- Applications Close: 19 February 2026
- Final Results: Before end of June 2026
- Return Obligation: Minimum 5 years in South Africa after studies
List of FirstRand Scholarships Available (2026)
FirstRand Laurie Dippenaar Scholarships (2)
- International postgraduate study
- Various academic fields
FirstRand Empowerment Foundation Scholarships (3)
- International postgraduate study
- Strong leadership and empowerment focus
FirstRand Oxford Scholarships
Study at the University of Oxford, United Kingdom:
- Oxford African Studies Scholarship
- MSc in African Studies
- Oxford School of Global and Area Studies
- Oxford Blavatnik School of Government Scholarship
- Master of Public Policy
- Oxford Smith School of Enterprise & the Environment Scholarship
- MSc in Sustainability, Enterprise and the Environment
QUICK LINKS:
FirstRand IHE Delft Water Education Scholarship
- MSc in Water and Sustainability
- Study at IHE Delft Institute for Water Education (Netherlands)
FirstRand IE School of Science & Technology Scholarship
Study in Spain at IE School of Science and Technology:
- Master in Business Analytics and Big Data
- Master in Computer and Business Technology
Mandela Scholarships (2)
- Supported by the FirstRand Empowerment Foundation
- Master’s degree at the University of Sussex
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Criteria)
Applicants must meet all requirements below:
- South African citizen
- Academically excellent graduate
- Proven leadership and community involvement
- Intending to pursue international postgraduate study
- Not currently studying overseas
- No previous international degree study
- Willing to return to South Africa for at least 5 years after graduation
Selection Criteria
Successful candidates must clearly demonstrate:
- Academic excellence
- Leadership ability
- Strong values and character
- Community impact
- Potential to become a “destiny changer” in their field
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Apply to Your Chosen University
You must first apply to the international university where you intend to study.
Step 2: Submit the Online Scholarship Application
Complete the FirstRand online scholarship application and upload all required documents via the official portal.
Step 3: Submit Your Acceptance Letter
Once received, email your university acceptance letter to:
firstrandpgscholarship@firstrand.co.za
Deadline: No later than 7 April 2026
Step 4: Shortlisting & Interviews
- Applications reviewed by FirstRand, FNB, RMB, and former scholars
- Approximately 45 candidates shortlisted
- Interviews conducted in:
- Cape Town
- Sandton
- Microsoft Teams
- Final interviews: Sandton (May 2026)
⚠️ Panels reserve the right not to award a scholarship. Decisions are final.
How to Apply
Apply online for the FirstRand Scholarships 2026
(Use the official FirstRand scholarship portal)
📌 Closing Date: 19 February 2026
Enquiries
For further information, contact:
Attention: Giselle Ras
firstrandpgscholarship@firstrand.co.za
Why This Scholarship Matters
The FirstRand Scholarship Programme offers:
- Full support for international Master’s studies
- Access to top global universities
- Leadership development and mentorship
- A powerful alumni network
- An opportunity to contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s future
This is a career-defining scholarship for graduates with vision, discipline, and a commitment to impact.
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Mbalizuke Nkosi
Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to sharing opportunities, education updates, and career development information. The editorial team focuses on producing clear, reliable, and easy-to-understand content for students, job seekers, and young professionals.
With a strong interest in youth empowerment, skills development, and access to opportunities, Youth Admin curates and publishes content covering learnerships, internships, bursaries, and study guides across South Africa.
The aim of Mbalizuke Nkosi is to simplify important information and make it accessible to young people who are building their future careers.