The Canon Collins Trust, in partnership with the Tom Queba Memorial Fund and Pegasys, invites applications for the 2027 Scholarships for Social Change.
This opportunity supports students committed to driving social and environmental transformation in South Africa.
Deadline: 14 August 2026 at 16:00 (SAST / GMT)
Apply now
Overview
This scholarship is awarded to students whose studies contribute directly to:
- Social development
- Environmental sustainability
- Improving the lives of disadvantaged communities in South Africa
Funding is available for:
- Honours degrees
- Master’s degrees
📆 Duration: Up to 2 years
Fields of Study
Scholarships are awarded in the following areas:
- Justice
- Education
- Humanities & the Arts
- Sciences & Applied Sciences
Your chosen programme must clearly contribute to social change.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
- Be classified as Black or Coloured South African (as per BEE definitions)
- Be under 34 years old at the start of the programme
- Be a South African resident
- Hold or be completing a strong undergraduate degree (minimum Second Class Upper Division or equivalent)
- Be applying for or studying Honours or Master’s at a South African university
You must meet ALL criteria to apply.
What the Scholarship Covers
- Up to R85,000 per year
- Funding for a maximum of 2 years
- Supports:
- Full-time study
- Part-time study
- Distance learning
Additional benefits:
- Annual scholar conference
- Networking opportunities
- Leadership development events
Application Process
Stage 1
Deadline: 14 August 2026 (16:00 SAST)
Submit:
- Degree certificates (if available)
- Full academic transcripts
- ID document (passport / birth certificate / driver’s licence)
Only complete applications meeting all criteria will proceed.
Stage 2
Invitations sent: September 2026
- Submit detailed application
- Shortlisted candidates attend interviews
Interviews: October / November 2026
Final results: December 2026
Important Notes
- Applications must be 100% your own work
- Use of AI tools (e.g. ChatGPT, Bard) is strictly prohibited
- Basic spelling/grammar tools are allowed
- Late applications will NOT be accepted
- Apply early to avoid system issues near deadline
How to Apply
- Apply via the Canon Collins Trust online platform
- Complete all sections before submission
- Save and edit your application until ready to submit
Final Tip
This is a high-impact scholarship focused on future leaders and change-makers. Make sure your application clearly shows your commitment to social justice, equity, and community development.