Fully Fund Your Master’s Degree at a Top European University Through This Premier South Africa-Netherlands Exchange!
Are you a highly motivated student from South Africa seeking a Master’s degree at a world-class European institution? The Mandela Scholarship Fund at Leiden University in the Netherlands offers exceptional funding designed to support South African students who demonstrate strong academic performance, leadership potential, and a commitment to positive social change.
This scholarship is highly competitive and aims to foster academic and cultural exchange between South Africa and the Netherlands, making it possible for students to receive a top-tier education with full financial support.
The Full Financial Package: Study in Leiden for Free
The Mandela Scholarship Fund provides comprehensive funding, covering the majority of costs associated with studying in the Netherlands:
- Tuition Fees: Full coverage of the statutory tuition fees for the duration of the Master’s program.
- Stipend: A generous allowance is provided to cover the cost of living in the Netherlands.
- International Travel: A substantial allowance to cover the cost of international travel (round-trip airfare).
- Visa/Residence Permit Costs: Financial support to cover the cost of obtaining the necessary visa and residence permit.
- Duration: The scholarship is awarded for the duration of your Master’s programme (typically one or two years).
Who Qualifies for This South Africa-Netherlands Exchange?
This fund targets outstanding South African graduates with a clear vision for change.
- Nationality: You must be a South African national.
- Academic Level: You must hold a Bachelor’s degree and be applying for a full-time Master’s program at Leiden University.
- Financial Need: While academic merit is key, applicants must also demonstrate financial need.
- Commitment: The scholarship targets candidates who show strong leadership qualities and a commitment to returning to South Africa to contribute to the country’s development.
- Program Focus: Preference may be given to specific fields of study, such as Law, Social Sciences, Humanities, and Governance.
Critical Application Deadlines
Applying for the Mandela Scholarship requires both a university admission application and a separate scholarship application by an early deadline.
- University Admission Deadline: The Master’s application deadline is typically October 1, 2026 (for programs starting in February 2027) or February 1, 2026 (for programs starting in September 2026).
- Scholarship Deadline: To be considered for the Mandela Scholarship, you must submit your complete university application and scholarship motivation by the priority deadline, which is typically February 1, 2026.
Seize this chance to join the ranks of international scholars at Leiden University with this life-changing, fully funded opportunity!


