FirstRand Laurie Dippenaar Scholarship

About this scholarship

The FirstRand Laurie Dippenaar Scholarship funds South African citizens for postgraduate study outside South Africa at an international university of their choice. The official FirstRand bursary page states that the scholarship is worth up to R1.5 million for a master's degree and up to R2 million for a PhD, in any discipline. The award is recorded as partial funding because even these high caps may not cover all costs at every international university, and the official award is denominated in South African rand rather than one annual USD value. Applications for the 2026 round opened October 20, 2025 and closed February 19, 2026. Successful candidates are expected to have excelled academically and demonstrate leadership qualities, strength of character, community involvement, and potential to be a destiny changer. Preference is given to candidates under 35. Candidates already studying overseas for degree purposes, or who have been studying overseas for degree purposes, are not considered. Recipients must return to South Africa for at least five years after completing studies.

Eligibility

• Be a South African citizen
• Apply for postgraduate study outside South Africa at an international university
• Apply for a master's degree or PhD in any discipline
• Demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, character, community involvement, and impact potential
• Preferably be under 35 years old
• Not currently be studying overseas or have studied overseas for degree purposes
• Commit to returning to South Africa for at least five years after completion