Application Deadline: Tuesday, 2 September 2025 at 17:00 SAST
The Canon Collins Trust, in partnership with the Ros Moger and Terry Furlong (RMTF) Scholarship Fund, invites applications for postgraduate study opportunities in South Africa for the 2026 academic year. This scholarship aims to support exceptional individuals who are committed to making a meaningful contribution to the development of Southern Africa through academic excellence, leadership, and service.
Each year, the Canon Collins RMTF Scholarship enables outstanding postgraduate students from the region to pursue advanced study in fields that promote justice, education reform, and the humanities. For the 2025/2026 academic cycle, the scholarship is open exclusively to individuals whose proposed study falls within specific focus areas aligned with the Trust’s mission and values.
Eligible Fields of Study
For the upcoming cycle, applications will be considered only in the following fields:
- Justice: Including, but not limited to, Climate Justice, Law, Economics, and Politics. These disciplines are crucial in fostering systems of fairness, equity, and policy development that serve marginalized and underrepresented communities in Southern Africa.
- Education: With a specific focus on education policy and practice. The scholarship seeks to support future educators, researchers, and policy-makers who are working to transform the education sector in ways that improve access, quality, and equity.
- Humanities: Including Literature, History, Anthropology, and the Arts. These fields are valued for their capacity to shape cultural understanding, preserve heritage, and inspire critical thinking and civic engagement.
Applicants must clearly demonstrate how their chosen field of study contributes to broader societal goals, and how their academic work aligns with the vision of a more just, educated, and culturally rich Southern Africa.
Scholarship Benefits and Duration
The Canon Collins RMTF Scholarship provides financial support for postgraduate students undertaking Master’s or PhD programs at recognized universities in South Africa. The scholarship is typically awarded for a period of up to two years, with the possibility of renewal for a third year in exceptional cases. Continued funding is contingent upon:
- Satisfactory academic progress
- Timely submission of academic and progress reports
- Active participation in the Trust’s broader network and events
In addition to financial assistance, scholars become part of the Canon Collins Scholars community—a dynamic network of professionals, activists, and academics across Southern Africa committed to social justice and positive transformation. This community offers opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and professional development.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the 2026 RMTF Scholarship, applicants must:
- Be nationals of, or have refugee status in, one of the countries of Southern Africa
- Be currently residing, studying, or working in South Africa
- Hold, or be on track to complete by the end of 2025, an Honours degree (or equivalent)
- Intend to pursue a Master’s or PhD degree at a South African university in one of the eligible fields listed above
- Demonstrate a strong academic record, a clear vision for how their work will impact their field, and a commitment to social justice and community development
Application Process
All applications must be submitted online via the Canon Collins Trust’s official application portal. Applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline, as the platform often experiences high traffic as the closing date approaches, which can lead to technical difficulties or failed submissions.
The deadline for applications is Tuesday, 2 September 2025 at 17:00 (South African Standard Time). Late or incomplete applications will not be considered under any circumstances.
The application process includes:
- Completion of an online application form
- Submission of academic transcripts and degree certificates
- A statement of purpose explaining the applicant’s goals, motivation, and how their work will contribute to positive change in Southern Africa
- Letters of recommendation
Shortlisted candidates may be invited to attend an interview as part of the final selection process. Final decisions will be communicated to all applicants in due course.
Important Note to Applicants
The Canon Collins Trust emphasizes that this scholarship is highly competitive. Meeting the eligibility criteria does not guarantee an award. The selection committee seeks candidates who demonstrate not only academic excellence but also a strong alignment with the Trust’s values of equity, social justice, and leadership for public good.
Applicants are advised to carefully read all application guidance on the Canon Collins Trust website and to prepare their submissions thoughtfully and thoroughly.
