The MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair Scholarships 2027 support full-time postgraduate study at Stellenbosch University. The South African Research Chair in Violent Histories and Transgenerational Trauma at the Centre for the Study of the Afterlife of Violence and the Reparative Quest invites applications. Funded by the National Research Foundation, the scholarships cover two years of study beginning in January 2027. Applications must be submitted by Monday, 22 June 2026 at 12pm (noon).
Programme Snapshot
Programme: MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair
Category: Master’s Scholarships
Host: South African Research Chair in Violent Histories and Transgenerational Trauma at AVReQ, Stellenbosch University
Funding Organization: National Research Foundation
Format: Full-time enrolment
Duration: Two years
Commencement: January 2027
Application Deadline: Monday, 22 June 2026 at 12pm (noon)
About the MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair Scholarships 2027
The scholarships support full-time enrolment in the MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair. The programme trains emerging scholars to develop decolonial knowledge on the multidimensional and transgenerational legacies of violent histories. It also explores psychosocial processes of repair and healing.
Scholarships are awarded competitively to academically strong candidates with a background in humanities and social sciences.
Funding and Scholarship Duration
The National Research Foundation funds the scholarships. The level of support depends on the applicant’s citizenship or residency status.
✓ South African citizens and applicants holding permanent residency are eligible for full NRF scholarships.
✓ Successful applicants who are not South African citizens are eligible for partial scholarships.
✓ The scholarship covers two years of study.
✓ The programme begins in January 2027.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
• Hold an Honours degree or equivalent qualification by the time the MPhil programme begins.
• Have a final mark of at least 65%.
• Have completed the Honours degree or equivalent qualification no earlier than 2024.
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to postgraduate study.
• Show a clear interest in contributing to a collaborative research community.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following documents:
• A copy of the Honours degree or a letter from a supervisor confirming graduation by the end of the 2026 academic year.
• An example of previous academic work, such as an academic essay, publication, or chapter from an Honours research project.
• A scholarship motivation letter of no more than three pages.
• At least one recommendation letter from an academic mentor familiar with the applicant’s work.
• A completed Declaration of Authorship, Generative AI Use, and Writing Assistance form.
The scholarship motivation letter should cover:
• Academic background and achievements.
• Previous roles in community, professional, academic, or civic initiatives that demonstrate leadership and engagement.
• Research interests and their alignment with the programme.
• The intended contribution to AVReQ’s intellectual and public life.
• Financial need, if applicable.
How to Submit an Application
Applicants must first apply for admission to the MPhil in Violent Histories and Repair through Stellenbosch University’s online application system.
In addition, applicants must email their scholarship application and supporting documents to AVREQINFO@sun.ac.za. The subject line must appear in capital letters as follows: MPHIL SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATION 2027.
Selection Process
Scholarships are awarded on a competitive basis. Successful candidates must be available for interviews on 25 June 2026.
Application Deadline
The deadline for applications is Monday, 22 June 2026 at 12pm (noon).
