The Canon Collins Trust invites applications for the RMTF Scholarships for 2027 postgraduate study in South Africa. This prestigious scholarship supports students committed to social justice and transformation in Southern Africa.
Deadline: 14 August 2026 at 16:00 (SAST / GMT)
Apply now
Overview
The scholarship provides funding for:
- Master’s degrees (up to 2 years)
- PhD degrees (up to 3 years, with reapplication option)
Funding is performance-based and renewed based on academic progress.
Fields of Study (2027 Intake)
Applications are only accepted in the following areas:
Justice
- Climate Justice
- Law
- Economics
- Politics
Education
- Education Policy
- Education Practice
Humanities
- Literature
- History
- Anthropology
- The Arts
Note: Programmes outside these fields (e.g. MBA, medical sciences, sports sciences, applied sciences) will NOT be considered.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be a national or recognised refugee from:
Angola, Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Zambia, or Zimbabwe - Be ordinarily resident in one of these countries
- Be applying for or enrolled in a Master’s or PhD at a South African university
- Meet academic requirements:
- Master’s: Honours degree (minimum Second Class Upper Division or equivalent)
- PhD: Relevant Master’s degree
- Show at least 2 years of active involvement in social justice initiatives
- Be pursuing studies that address key social justice challenges in Southern Africa
Additional (PhD Applicants)
- Must have a confirmed or prospective supervisor
- Must submit a draft research proposal
What the Scholarship Covers
- Funding between R20,000 – R100,000 per year
- Supports full-time, part-time, and distance learning
- Covers study-related expenses based on student needs
Scholars also benefit from:
- Annual conferences
- Networking events
- Access to a regional community of change-makers
Application Process
Stage 1 (Initial Application)
Deadline: 14 August 2026 (16:00 SAST)
Submit:
- Degree certificates
- Academic transcripts
- CV
- ID document (passport / birth certificate / driver’s licence)
May also include:
- Proof of refugee status
- Payslips (if employed)
Stage 2 (Shortlisted Candidates)
Invitations sent: September 2026
Submit:
- Two reference letters
- PhD: Draft research proposal + supervisor support letter
- Master’s: Sample academic writing
Interviews: October / November 2026
Final results: Mid-December 2026
Important Notes
- Applications must be your own original work
- Use of AI tools (e.g. ChatGPT) to write applications is not allowed
- ✔️ Basic grammar/spell check tools are permitted
- Incomplete applications will not be considered
- Apply early to avoid system delays near the deadline
How to Apply
- Apply online via the Canon Collins Trust website
- Follow all instructions carefully
- Ensure all sections are completed before submission
Final Tip
Start your application early and prepare all required documents in advance. This is a highly competitive scholarship aimed at future leaders committed to making a real impact in Southern Africa.