Masters Scholarships Offered in South Africa , 2025 - 2026

1. What are Master's Scholarships?

Master's scholarships are non-repayable financial awards given to students to help fund their postgraduate degrees, usually based on merit, financial need, or specific eligibility criteria like academic excellence or a particular field of study. These scholarships may cover tuition fees, living expenses, or both, depending on the type of scholarship.

2. Who can apply for a Master's Scholarship?

Anyone can apply for a master's scholarship, but eligibility varies by each specific scholarship. Common eligibility criteria include having a relevant bachelor's degree, meeting academic requirements like a minimum GPA or relevant work experience, demonstrating financial need, belonging to a specific nationality or residency, and having a strong academic record, work experience, or leadership qualities. Always check the specific criteria on the scholarship provider's website to see if you meet the requirements.

3. How Can I Apply for a Master's Scholarship?

The application process varies for each scholarship. To apply for a master's scholarship, find eligible scholarships on portals like scholarshipLit or university websites, prepare required documents like academic transcripts and personal statements, ensure you meet eligibility criteria (academic merit, nationality, etc.), and submit your application carefully by the deadline. Creating a strong motivation letter is crucial, as it highlights your personal experiences to impress the selection committee.

4. When can I apply for a Master's Scholarship?

You can begin applying for master's scholarships during your final year of undergraduate study, with most applications due several months before the degree begins. Some scholarships require that you have an unconditional or conditional offer from a university before applying/ It is always best to start researching and applying as early as possible to maximize your chances of being considered, as many scholarships have application windows in late winter or early spring for the following academic year.

5. Can I Work While Studying with a Master's Scholarship?

Yes, in most cases, you can work while studying with a master's scholarship, but it depends on the specific scholarship's terms, your visa regulations, and your course load. Many scholarships allow for part-time work to help with living costs or to gain experience, but you must ensure your work aligns with your scholarship conditions and visa rules, which often limit weekly hours during term time.

6. Are There Scholarships for Online Master's Programs?

Yes, there are numerous scholarships available for online master's programs, offered by universities, government programs, and private organizations. These can range from full tuition waivers to grants for tuition, fees, or living expenses. Opportunities exist for students of various backgrounds, including international students, those from developing countries, and specific demographic groups like veterans and military spouses.

7. Can I Apply for Multiple Master's Scholarships at Once?

Yes, you can apply for multiple Master's scholarships simultaneously, and doing so is common and recommended to increase your chances of receiving financial aid for your studies. However, always check the specific terms and conditions for each scholarship, as some awards may not permit you to hold multiple funding sources or may have restrictions on concurrent applications.

8. How can I see a scholarship in my field?

Search different university websites, dedicated scholarship databases, and organizations like scholarshipLit

9. Scholarship available in all disciplines?

Scholarships available for all disciplines include prestigious programs like the Gates Cambridge Scholarship at the University of Oxford for postgraduate studies, the Chevening Scholarship for master's degrees in the UK, and the Fulbright Program for study and research in the USA. These scholarships are awarded based on academic excellence and leadership potential, covering a wide range of subjects. You can find more information on platforms like scholarshipLit , which also list university-specific and international options.