The Mandela Scholarships are awarded to exceptional students from across Africa who are ready to lead, build, and contribute to the continent’s future. Rooted in Nelson Mandela’s values, these merit-based scholarships recognise students who combine academic excellence with initiative, leadership, and purpose.
At African Leadership University, we believe talent is everywhere, and education should unlock the potential of those ready to shape Africa’s future. The Mandela Scholarships are designed for students who are already stepping up and want to go further.
The Mandela Scholarships provide tuition support for the duration of your programme (typically 3–4 years, depending on your programme of study).
The Mandela Scholarships are merit-based and intended for students who demonstrate strong potential to thrive at ALU. Successful candidates typically:
To be considered for the Mandela Scholarships, you must first apply to African Leadership University through the standard admissions process.
Submit your application for your chosen programme and intake via the ALU application portal.
Eligible applicants will be considered for the Mandela Scholarships as part of the admissions and scholarship review process.
If you believe the Mandela Scholarships align with your academic journey and leadership aspirations, we encourage you to take the next step.
We’ve answered some common questions below to help you better understand the Mandela Scholarships, eligibility, and application process.
The Mandela Scholarships are merit-based scholarships that recognise academically strong students who also demonstrate leadership, initiative, or entrepreneurial effort. They honour Nelson Mandela’s legacy by supporting students with the potential to contribute meaningfully to Africa’s future.
The scholarships are open to top academic performers across Africa who meet ALU’s admissions requirements and demonstrate leadership or initiative. They are awarded based on merit, not financial need.
No. The Mandela Scholarships primarily cover tuition only. Students are responsible for accommodation, laptops, insurance, meals, transport, and other living expenses. Some donor-funded scholarships may include additional support where clearly specified.
Approximately 20 scholarships will be awarded for the September and October 2026 intakes.
No. You do not need to submit a separate application for the Mandela Scholarships.
As part of your ALU application, you will select the Mandela Scholarship option in the Financial Aid section. Eligible applicants will then be considered through the scholarship review process.
No. Students do not apply separately for donor-supported scholarship variants (such as the Dolika Banda or Dry Creek Foundation scholarships). Eligible applicants will be considered automatically based on donor criteria.
For the 2026 intake, confirmed variants include:
The Mandela Scholarships are highly competitive. Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee an award.
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted as part of the admissions and scholarship review process.
Students are encouraged to carefully assess their ability to cover non-tuition costs before accepting an offer. The Mandela Scholarships are not designed to cover full living expenses.
If you have questions about the Mandela Scholarships or the application process, please contact the Financial Aid team
