MAD Leadership Foundation Scholarship South Africa 2026

If you are one of many previously disadvantaged South African students and fear that you might not have financial ability to complete your studies, the MAD Leadership Foundation Scholarship is here for you.

The Make a Difference Leadership Foundation (MAD) was founded in 2003 with the aim of proving financial support students who want to to reach their full potential. The foundation provides access to quality education, mentorship, and personal development opportunities, while also building strong leadership skills in young people.

Since its establishment, MAD Leadership Foundation has assisted both high school learners and university students throughout their academic journey, ensuring that they have the resources and guidance needed to become the future leaders of South Africa.

STUDY FIELDS COVERED BY THE MAD LEADERSHIP FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP

The Make a Difference Leadership Foundation invites applications for its scholarship programme for the 2026 academic year.

Scholarships will be awarded for undergraduate studies in the following fields:

  • STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics)
  • Commerce
  • Construction

The programme not only provides financial support but also focuses on leadership development, personal growth, and mentorship.

SELECTION PROCESS

Shortlisted candidates will be notified by 15 September 2025. If no feedback is received by this date, the application should be regarded as unsuccessful. Candidates who are shortlisted will be required to complete psychometric and leadership assessments during September 2025.

Final interviews will take place in October and November 2025. Successful candidates will be announced by December 2025.

ELIGIBILITY FOR THE MAD LEADERSHIP FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP

Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements to be considered:

  • Must be a South African citizen.
  • Must be currently in Matric or have completed Matric.
  • Must be in 1st or 2nd year of study, or intending to study, towards a qualification in a STEM, Commerce, or Construction-related field.
  • Must have applied or been accepted to study at a recognised and accredited South African tertiary institution in 2026.
  • Must have achieved a minimum overall average of 65%.
  • Household income must not exceed R25 000 per month.
  • Must have basic proficiency in English (spoken and written).
  • Must participate in extra-curricular school-related activities.
  • Must demonstrate integrity, responsibility, and leadership potential.
  • Must show involvement in community initiatives.

HOW TO APPLY?

If you are comfortable about eligibility rquirement and this is the type of funding you need, simply follow the steps below to apply:

Both these links are official dedicated page for applications.

REQUIRED SUPPORTING DOCUMENTS

Applicants must submit the following documents (certified copies where applicable). Missing documents may result in disqualification:

  • ID document (if over 16 years old) or birth certificate (if under 16 years old).
  • Final school reports for 2023 and 2024.
  • 2025 Term 2 school report.
  • Confirmation of good conduct and school quantile (signed by principal, teacher, or residence head).
  • Parents’ or guardians’ ID documents.
  • Parents’ or guardians’ death certificate, if applicable.
  • Proof of household income (latest payslips if employed; affidavit if unemployed; proof of SASSA grant if applicable).

APPLICATION DEADLINE

The closing date for applications is 31 August 2025. Late submission will result in your disqualification.

SCHOLARSHIP CONTACT DETAILS

For queries about the scholarship, please contact the MAD Leadership Foundation directly:

  • Tel/ SMS/ WhatsApp: 082 313 9014
  • Email: applications@madleadership.org
  • Business hours: Monday to Friday, 09:00 – 16:00. (Queries will be responded to within 3–5 working days.)

Also See: Other General Bursaries and Scholarships open for 2026 applications.