The Mandela Scholarship Fund was set up in 1973 at the initiative of the Sussex Student Union and staff. Its purpose was to provide higher education to South African students who were unable to study at university level because of discriminatory apartheid laws.

Today it continues this tradition by offering 2-3 post-graduate scholarships per year to South African and Namibian students from communities who were disadvantaged by the apartheid era. The scholarships are aimed particularly at those who wish to study a development-related discipline, or take a course that is unavailable in their own country. It is intended that the scholars will gain knowledge and skills that they can use constructively on their return home.

The trust is supported by donations from University staff and students, grants from charities, and by fund-raising activites on campus. The University contributes by waiving the scholars' fees.

Applicants should apply simultaneously to the University of Sussex Post-graduate Office, for the course of their choice, and to the Mandela Scholarship Fund for financial help.

For more information, or for application forms, please see the relevant section in the menu.