Cecil Renaud International Scholarship Application for 2026/2027
Detailed guide on Cecil Renaud International Scholarship Application 2026/2027. Are you a high-achieving student with strong leadership potential and a desire to make a meaningful impact in your home country? The Cecil Renaud International Scholarship 2026/2027 is now open for applications, offering a life-changing opportunity for outstanding postgraduate students from Sub-Saharan Africa to pursue a Master’s degree at the University of Oxford or the University of Cambridge in the United Kingdom. This prestigious scholarship is administered by the Cecil Renaud Education and Charitable Trust, an organisation committed to developing ethical leaders who will contribute to social, economic, and developmental progress across Africa.
The Cecil Renaud International Scholarship provides full financial support, which typically covers tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, and international travel costs. Beyond financial assistance, scholars benefit from world-class education, exposure to global networks, and an intellectually stimulating academic environment at two of the world’s most respected universities. The programme places strong emphasis on academic excellence, leadership ability, integrity, and commitment to community development, making it one of the most competitive international scholarships available to African students.
By applying for the Cecil Renaud International Scholarship 2026/2027, successful candidates gain more than just funding, they access an elite platform that nurtures future leaders, policymakers, researchers, and professionals equipped to drive positive change in Africa.
In addition, satrends.co.za offers a wide range of other bursary categories to suit your preference. Click on the links below to access other kinds of bursaries.
Universities in South Africa Bursaries Available for 2026
Government Departments Bursaries Available for 2026
Field of Studies Specified Bursaries Available for 2026
Keep reading to find out more about the eligibility requirements, fields of study supported, application process, selection criteria, and closing date for the Cecil Renaud International Scholarship Application 2026/2027.
About Cecil Renaud Educational and Charitable Trust
The Cecil Renaud Educational and Charitable Trust was established in 1988 by Dr Cecil Renaud, a renowned Durban-based philanthropist. Following his passing in 1993, the remainder of his estate was bequeathed to the Trust, which subsequently launched the Cecil Renaud Overseas Scholarship to support exceptional South African students.
Since 1994, the Trust has awarded 38 international scholarships, enabling recipients to study at world-class institutions such as the University of Cambridge, the University of Oxford, and the University of London. The programme is unique in that it supports all fields of study, provided applicants meet the academic and leadership criteria.
About the Cecil Renaud International Scholarship 2026/2027
Fields Covered and Selection
The Trust invites applications for the Cecil Renaud International Scholarship for the 2026 academic year.
Fields of Study Covered
- All academic disciplines
- Postgraduate studies only:
- Master’s degree (or equivalent)
- PhD
Studies must be undertaken at a recognised university in the United Kingdom on a full-time basis.
Selection Process
- Shortlisted candidates are invited to a formal interview
- One or two candidates are selected each year
- Scholarships are awarded for a maximum duration of two (2) years
Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership potential, extracurricular involvement, and commitment to uplifting South Africa.
Eligibility Requirements for Cecil Renaud International Scholarship Application for 2026/2027
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria to be considered:
- Must be a resident of South Africa and have lived in the country for at least 5 years
- Must be under 27 years old
- Must have completed secondary schooling in KwaZulu-Natal
- Must be in the final year of a 4-year undergraduate degree or a postgraduate Honours degree
- Must have achieved or be on track to achieve cum laude or summa cum laude
- Must have received Dean’s Commendations and Certificates of Merit (or equivalent)
- Must have studied at a South African university
- Must intend to study full-time in the UK towards a Master’s or PhD
- Must demonstrate the potential to make a significant global and societal impact
- Must have an excellent extracurricular track record
- Must show a strong commitment to uplifting South Africa
Failure to meet any of the above requirements will result in disqualification.
How to Apply for Cecil Renaud International Scholarship Application for 2026/2027
Applicants must download and complete the official Cecil Renaud Scholarship Application Form 2026 (PDF).
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit clear, certified copies of the following documents:
- Birth certificate
- Academic record detailing courses, standards, and distinctions
- Degree certificates (if completed)
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Passport-sized photograph
- Signed personal statement outlining:
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- General interests and activities
- Proposed course of study
- Preferred UK university and motivation
- Intended career path after completing studies
- Motivational letter explaining why you should be awarded the scholarship
Note: Applicants are encouraged to combine all documents into one single file.
Submission Method
Applications must be submitted via email to both of the following addresses:
Email subject line: Cecil Renaud Scholarship
Incomplete or incorrectly submitted applications may be disqualified.
Closing Date for Cecil Renaud International Scholarship Application for 2026/2027
Application Deadline: 30 September
Late applications will not be accepted. Applicants are advised to submit well before the deadline to avoid disappointment.
Contact Details of Cecil Renaud International
For further information or enquiries, contact the Trust directly:
Email: apply@cecilrenaud.co.za
Contact Page: https://www.cecilrenaud.co.za/contact-us