Have you ever dreamed of studying in the Netherlands, walking through centuries-old streets while immersing yourself in world-class research and vibrant international networks? For South African students, that dream can become reality through the Mandela Scholarship Fund 2026 at Leiden University – and applications for the February intake are now open!
A Scholarship with a Legacy
This fund was established in honor of President Nelson Mandela, who received an Honorary Doctorate from Leiden University in 1999. His vision was clear: greater exchange of students would enrich both South Africa and the Netherlands. Today, the Mandela Scholarship Fund carries that legacy forward, empowering future leaders to pursue study abroad and strengthen ties between nations.
Who Can Apply?
This opportunity is specifically designed for students from four partner South African universities:
- Stellenbosch University
- University of Cape Town
- University of Pretoria
- University of the Western Cape
Eligible applicants must be:
- Enrolled at one of the above universities
- Pre-selected by their home university for the scholarship
- Able to meet Leiden University’s exchange/student abroad admission requirements.
Benefits That Open Doors
Depending on your home university, the scholarship covers:
- Living allowance: Up to €1,250 per month
- Aon Student Insurance for the full exchange duration (5 or 10 months)
- One or two semester study opportunities at Leiden University across a wide range of faculties, including: Archaeology, Humanities, Medicine/LUMC, Governance and Global Affairs, Law, Social and Behavioral Sciences, Science, African Studies Centre, and International Institute for Asian Studies.
Application Deadlines
For students planning to join Leiden University in the February 2026 intake, the application deadline is 15 October 2025. If you are aiming for the September 2026 intake, the deadline is 1 April 2026. In addition, students must also check with their respective South African universities—Stellenbosch University, University of Cape Town, University of Pretoria, or University of the Western Cape—for their internal nomination deadlines, as these may vary.
Why This Scholarship Matters?
This scholarship is more than funding—it’s an investment in cross-cultural knowledge, international cooperation, and leadership. It’s about walking in Nelson Mandela’s footsteps and contributing to the future of South Africa while gaining a global academic experience in the Netherlands.
So, if you’re a motivated student from one of the four partner universities, this is your moment. Don’t wait—applications for the February 2026 intake close on 15 October 2025 here https://www.student.universiteitleiden.nl/en/scholarships/sea/mandela-scholarship-fund?cf=leiden-university&%3Bcd=guest&cd=guest.