Leiden University Mandela Scholarship 2026 – Fully Funded Opportunity in the Netherlands. Applications are now open for the Leiden University Mandela Scholarship 2026 in the Netherlands. This prestigious program invites international students from South Africa to apply for a fully funded exchange scholarship at one of Europe’s leading research universities. Selected candidates will have the chance to study for one or two semesters at Leiden University, immersing themselves in a world-class academic environment while building international leadership and cultural exchange skills.
The Mandela Scholarship Netherlands 2026 is designed to honor Nelson Mandela’s vision of strengthening ties between South Africa and the Netherlands by fostering student exchange, leadership, and global cooperation.
Quick Summary of Leiden University Mandela Scholarship 2026
- Host University: Leiden University, Netherlands
- Degree Levels: Bachelor & Master (exchange program)
- Scholarship Type: Fully Funded
- Eligible Students: From 4 South African partner universities
- Coverage: Living allowance (€1,250/month), student insurance, tuition-free study for 1–2 semesters
- Application Deadlines:
- February 2026 intake: 15 October 2025
- September 2026 intake: 1 April 2026
About Leiden University & Mandela Scholarship Fund
Leiden University is one of the top universities in Europe, consistently ranked among the world’s top 100 in the QS World University Rankings and Times Higher Education Rankings. In 1999, Nelson Mandela was awarded an Honorary Doctorate by Leiden University, and this scholarship was established in his honor to promote academic exchange and global leadership.
The Mandela Scholarship Fund continues Mandela’s legacy by enabling promising students from South Africa to gain international experience, expand their research skills, and contribute positively to their country’s future.
Scholarship Benefits – Fully Funded Coverage
The Leiden University Mandela Scholarship 2026 provides generous support for selected students, including:
- Monthly living allowance: Up to €1,250
- Duration: Funding available for 5 or 10 months (1 or 2 semesters)
- Comprehensive insurance: Aon Student Insurance for the full study period
- Tuition coverage: One or two semesters at Leiden University without tuition fees
Fields of Study Available at Leiden University
Students can choose courses from multiple faculties, including:
- African Studies Center
- Archaeology
- Humanities
- Medicine / LUMC
- Governance and Global Affairs
- Law
- Social and Behavioral Sciences
- International Institute for Asian Studies
Eligible South African Universities
Only students from these partner universities in South Africa are eligible to apply:
- Stellenbosch University
- University of Cape Town
- University of Pretoria
- University of the Western Cape
Eligibility Criteria for Mandela Scholarship 2026
To be considered for this scholarship in the Netherlands, applicants must:
- Be enrolled at one of the above four South African partner universities
- Be pre-selected by their home university before applying
- Demonstrate strong English language proficiency
- Meet Leiden University’s exchange and study abroad requirements
Application Deadlines
- 15 October 2025 → For the February 2026 intake
- 1 April 2026 → For the September 2026 intake
- Applicants must also check with their home university’s internal deadlines, which may differ.
How to Apply for Leiden University Mandela Scholarship 2026
- Apply through your home university in South Africa for pre-selection.
- Once nominated, apply to Leiden University’s exchange program by the respective deadline.
- Submit all required documents according to Leiden University’s application guidelines.
Official Application Link – Leiden University Mandela Scholarship
