Canon Collins Trust Scholarships 2026 For Postgraduate Study In South Africa (Funded) -

About the Canon Collins Trust Scholarships 2026

Applications are now open for the 2026 Canon Collins Trust Scholarships for postgraduate study in South Africa. The Canon Collins Trust, in collaboration with the RMTF Scholarship Fund, invites highly motivated individuals from eligible African countries to apply for this prestigious scholarship opportunity.

The Canon Collins Trust has a long-standing history of supporting Southern African scholars to pursue postgraduate education, recognizing the transformative power of advanced learning in driving social justice, leadership, and sustainable development. The 2026 edition of this scholarship program is aimed at empowering outstanding Master’s and PhD students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership capacity, and a commitment to positive change in their communities.

The Canon Collins Scholarships for Postgraduate Study in South Africa provide financial support for up to a maximum of two years, with the possibility of reapplying for a third year for PhD students. This scholarship supports both full-time and part-time studies, and applications are also welcome from candidates interested in distance learning.

Funding is awarded based on individual student circumstances, ensuring that both academic and financial needs are addressed. In addition to tuition and living expenses, the program offers ongoing support through mentorship and access to the Canon Collins alumni network, which includes thought leaders, researchers, and professionals across Africa.

Founded in 1981, the Canon Collins Trust has played a key role in supporting education in Southern Africa, particularly during the anti-apartheid struggle and beyond. The Trust continues to invest in higher education as a pathway to leadership, democracy, and sustainable development.

By providing funding, mentorship, and a powerful alumni network, the Trust ensures that its scholars are equipped not only with academic qualifications but also with the skills and connections needed to drive positive change in their societies.

Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Canon Collins Trust Scholarships 2026, applicants must:

Nationality/Residency:
- Be a national of, or have refugee status in, one of the following countries:
  Namibia, Zimbabwe, South Africa, Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Eswatini (Swaziland), Zambia.
- Be normally resident in one of the above countries.
Academic Qualifications:
- Hold a good first degree (minimum of second-class, upper division, or equivalent).
- Applicants who are about to graduate in the year of application are also eligible.
University Enrollment:
- Be currently studying or applying to study at a South African university for postgraduate studies (Master’s or PhD level).
Field of Study:
- The scholarship is open to students across a range of disciplines, with preference for studies that align with social justice, education, human rights, environmental sustainability, and community development.

Selection Criteria

Applications will be assessed based on:

Academic excellence and potential for success at the postgraduate level.
Commitment to social justice, human rights, and development in Southern Africa.
Leadership qualities and evidence of community engagement.
Clarity of study plan and its relevance to addressing key issues in the applicant’s home country or the Southern African region.

Benefits of the Canon Collins Trust Scholarships 2026

Recipients of the 2026 Canon Collins Trust Scholarships will receive:

Financial Support: Scholarship packages ranging from R20,000 to R100,000, depending on the student’s circumstances.
Duration: Funding for up to two years for Master’s and PhD programs, with the option to reapply for a third year for PhD students.
Flexibility: Support for full-time, part-time, and distance learning modes of study.
Continued Support: Funding renewal is subject to satisfactory academic progress and the submission of academic reports.
Networking Opportunities: Access to the Canon Collins community, fostering professional connections and collaboration among scholars across Southern Africa.

How to Apply

Prepare Your Documents:
Applicants are typically required to submit:
- Completed application form (available on the Canon Collins Trust website).
- Certified copies of degree certificates and transcripts.
- A copy of your passport or ID.
- Proof of residency (where applicable).
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A statement of purpose outlining your academic and professional goals.
- Two reference letters (at least one academic).
Submit Your Application:
- Applications must be submitted online via the Canon Collins Trust application portal.
- Incomplete applications or those submitted after the deadline will not be considered.
Application Deadline:
- All applications must be submitted by September 2, 2025.

Important Notes

Applicants currently holding another scholarship may not be eligible unless the funding body allows joint awards.
Preference may be given to candidates whose studies are directly relevant to the development of their home country or the Southern African region.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.