funding: Up to R100,000 / year
location: South Africa
host: Canon Collins Trust
duration: 2–3 years
source-url: https://www.opportunitiesforafricans.com/canon-collins-rmtf-scholarships-2027/
apply-url: https://canoncollins.org/scholarships/canon-collins-rmtf-scholarships-for-postgraduate-study/
The Canon Collins RMTF Scholarships are now open for applications for the 2027 academic year. The scholarships provide funding for up to two years for Masters and three years for PhD study in South Africa, with a focus on social justice. Up to 20 scholarships are available, with a total value of R100,000 per year.
Overview
The Canon Collins RMTF Scholarships are available for postgraduate study in South Africa, with a focus on social justice. The scholarships cover three areas: Justice, Education policy and practice, and Humanities.
- Justice, including Climate Justice, Law, Economics and Politics
- Education policy and practice
- Humanities, including Literature, History, Anthropology and the Arts
Eligibility
To be eligible for the Canon Collins RMTF Scholarships, applicants must be nationals of, or hold recognised refugee status in, one of the following countries: Angola, Botswana, Eswatini (Swaziland), Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Applicants must also be ordinarily resident in one of these countries and be applying for, or currently enrolled in, a Master’s or PhD programme at a South African university.
- Be a national of, or hold recognised refugee status in, one of the listed countries
- Be ordinarily resident in one of the listed countries
- Be applying for, or currently enrolled in, a Master’s or PhD programme at a South African university
- Hold a good Honours degree (minimum Second Class Upper Division or equivalent) if applying for Master’s study
- Demonstrate a sustained commitment to social justice through at least two years of active engagement
Funding & Benefits
- Funding for up to two years for Masters and three years for PhD
- Scholarship package value ranging from R20,000 to R100,000 depending on student circumstances
- Support for full and part-time study, as well as distance learning
- Opportunity to participate in annual conferences and smaller events throughout the year
- Access to a network of current scholars and alumni
How to Apply
To apply for the Canon Collins RMTF Scholarships, applicants must complete and submit a short online application by 14 August 2026 at 16:00 SAST. Only applicants who meet all of the eligibility criteria, have submitted a complete application, and have uploaded all required supporting documents will be considered for the second stage of the application process.
- Complete and submit a short online application
- Upload required supporting documents, including degree certificates, academic transcripts, CV, and ID document
- Submit proof of refugee status, if applicable
- Submit two recent payslips, if currently employed
Why This Matters
The Canon Collins RMTF Scholarships are highly competitive, with a focus on social justice and a commitment to supporting students from Southern African countries. The scholarships provide a unique opportunity for students to pursue postgraduate study in South Africa, with a focus on making a positive impact in their communities.
The selection process is rigorous, with a two-stage application process that includes a review of academic transcripts, CVs, and personal statements. Applicants who demonstrate a strong commitment to social justice and a clear understanding of how their research or studies will contribute to addressing social challenges in Southern Africa are more likely to be successful.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the deadline for applying for the Canon Collins RMTF Scholarships?
The deadline for applying is 14 August 2026 at 16:00 SAST.
What are the eligibility criteria for the Canon Collins RMTF Scholarships?
To be eligible, applicants must be nationals of, or hold recognised refugee status in, one of the listed countries, be ordinarily resident in one of these countries, and be applying for, or currently enrolled in, a Master’s or PhD programme at a South African university.
What is the value of the scholarship package?
The value of the scholarship package ranges from R20,000 to R100,000 depending on student circumstances.
Can I apply for the scholarship if I am not a national of one of the listed countries?
No, only nationals of, or those who hold recognised refugee status in, one of the listed countries are eligible to apply.
What is the selection process for the Canon Collins RMTF Scholarships?
The selection process is rigorous, with a two-stage application process that includes a review of academic transcripts, CVs, and personal statements.
Do I need to have a supervisor or prospective supervisor in place before applying for the scholarship?
If applying for PhD study, yes, you must have identified a supervisor (or prospective supervisor) who has agreed in principle to supervise the proposed research.