Are you ready to secure financial support for your studies right now? The Make a Difference Leadership Foundation is opening its MAD Leadership Foundation Scholarship Programme for 2027, and the deadline is fast approaching.
What is the MAD Leadership Foundation Scholarship 2027?
The foundation offers three separate scholarships for South African learners:
- High‑school scholarship for learners entering Grade 9 in 2027.
- Undergraduate scholarship for students studying STEM or Commerce.
- Mike Ilsley Memorial Scholarship (in partnership with FEM Education Foundation) for aspiring Chartered Accountants (CA (SA)).
All scholarships are fully funded for South African citizens and are aimed at students who demonstrate leadership, academic ability and community involvement.
Who can apply?
High‑school scholarship (Grade 9 entry)
- South African citizen.
- In Grade 8 during 2026 and moving to Grade 9 in 2027.
- Enrolled at a public high school (private school only if a substantial school scholarship brings fees in line with Quintile 5 public schools).
- Household gross income ≤ R35 000 per month.
- Basic English proficiency.
- Demonstrated leadership at school and active community service.
Undergraduate STEM or Commerce scholarship
- South African citizen.
- Currently in Matric or already completed Matric.
- Planning to start or already studying a first‑year qualification in a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) or Commerce field in 2027.
- Accepted or applied to a recognised South African university for 2027.
- Overall school average ≥ 65 %.
- Household gross income ≤ R35 000 per month.
- Basic English language skills and a passion for the chosen field.
Mike Ilsley Memorial Scholarship – Chartered Accountancy
- South African citizen.
- Completed Matric.
- Studying or planning to study for the CA (SA) qualification (first or second year) in 2027.
- Accepted or applied to a recognised South African university for 2027.
- Minimum 70 % in Financial Accounting.
- Household gross income ≤ R35 000 per month.
- Strong sense of responsibility, good leadership traits and community‑service involvement.
What will you gain?
- Full coverage of tuition, fees and required study materials for the duration of the award.
- Mentorship and leadership development opportunities offered by the foundation.
- Enhanced CV – a recognised national scholarship demonstrates commitment and achievement.
- Network access to other scholarship recipients and industry partners.
How to apply – step by step
- Read the eligibility criteria carefully for the scholarship that matches your study level.
- Gather the required documents:
- Certified copy of ID (if > 16 yrs) or birth certificate (if < 16 yrs).
- Latest academic results and 2025 final results.
- Certified copies of parent/guardian ID (if < 18 yrs) and, if applicable, death certificate.
- Proof of household income (latest payslips, unemployment affidavit or SASSA grant statement).
- Any additional documents listed on the official application form.
- Visit the official application portal and choose the correct form:
- High‑school scholarship application.
- STEM/Commerce scholarship application.
- Mike Ilsley Memorial scholarship application.
- Complete the online form, upload the certified documents and submit before the deadline.
- Wait for feedback:
- High‑school and STEM/Commerce results expected by 31 December 2026.
- Mike Ilsley Memorial results expected by 27 February 2027.
Apply now at MAD Leadership Foundation Scholarship South Africa 2027.
Tips to improve your chances
- Start the application early – it gives you time to obtain certified copies.
- Proofread every answer; clear, concise language scores better in assessments.
- Highlight specific leadership roles (e.g., captain, prefect) and concrete community projects.
- Attach a short personal statement that explains why you chose your field of study and how you will give back.
- Ensure your household income proof is up‑to‑date and clearly legible.
- If shortlisted, prepare for the psychometric and leadership assessments – practice sample tests online.
Contact & further information
For any questions, you can reach the foundation directly:
- Tel / SMS / WhatsApp: 082 313 9014
- Email: applications@madleadership.org
- Business hours: Monday‑Friday, 09:00‑16:00 (responses within 3‑5 business days).
Important dates
- Application closing date: 26 July 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Final thoughts
This scholarship can remove financial barriers and give you leadership exposure that lasts a lifetime. If you meet the criteria, submit a complete application before 26 July 2026 and take the first step toward a brighter future.
