Rhodes University Patrick & Margaret Flanagan Scholarship – 2027 for South Africans (Masters & PhD)

Rhodes University invites applications for the 2027 Patrick & Margaret Flanagan Scholarships for international students to study in the UK. The scholarship covers tuition and living allowances for Master’s and Doctoral degrees at the UK institution.

Application Deadline

24 September 2026

Tell Me About The Scholarship

The Patrick & Margaret Flanagan Scholarship is a prestigious award administered by Rhodes University to support academically outstanding African students pursuing Master’s or Doctoral degrees abroad. It provides full-cost funding, including tuition and living allowances, enabling scholars to advance their research at leading international universities.

Which Fields are Eligible

Open to all disciplines.

Preference may be given to candidates intending to study English or related fields.

Type

Postgraduate Scholarship | Master’s & PhD | International Study

Who Can Apply

Applicants must

Be academically outstanding individuals with strong research potential.

Have a clear research focus and vision for societal impact.

Identify and justify a suitable international university for their studies.

Demonstrate proficiency in English (sufficient for tertiary study).

Preferably have a South African connection (though not mandatory).

Show leadership potential, character, and financial need.

Be women (scholarship is intended for women, irrespective of race or creed).

How Are Scholars Selected

Based on academic merit, leadership potential, and commitment to contributing to South Africa and future generations.

Preference for candidates whose families cannot otherwise afford international education.

Scholars are expected to return to South Africa after completing studies and contribute for a period equivalent to the years funded.

Which Countries are Eligible

African countries, with preference for applicants of South African descent.

Where Will the Scholarship Be Taken

International universities abroad (preferred institutions historically include Oxford, Cambridge, Edinburgh/St Andrews, and Trinity College Dublin).

May also include South African universities with appropriate overseas co‑supervision.

How Many Scholars

Limited awards; highly competitive.

What is the Benefit of the Scholarship

Full tuition coverage.

Living allowance paid quarterly after registration.

Funding typically for two years (third year considered exceptionally for PhD).

How Long Will the Scholarship Last

Two years (with possible extension to three years for PhD).

Required Documents

Letter of motivation (explaining research focus, chosen university, and post‑study plans).

Detailed academic CV (with three referees, including HOD or Dean).

Certified academic transcript.

Certified ID/Passport copy.

How to Apply

Prepare all required documents as a single PDF named: Surname_P&M Flanagan Scholarship Application.

Submit via email to [email protected].

Ensure application is complete before 24 September 2026.

Visit the Application Webpage for Details