Deadline: 13th February 2026 (5.00 pm CAT)
Applications are now open for the Beit Trust Postgraduate Scholarships 2026/2027 for study in south africa and the united kingdom. In 2025, the Trust awarded 21 scholarships at British and South African universities, through generous academic partnerships with leading institutions.
Beit Trust Scholarships are for postgraduate study only. We do not fund undergraduate degrees, and our postgraduate focus is on Master’s programmes.
Eligibility Requirements
By Act of Parliament, the Beit Trust supports only applicants who:
- Are nationals of Zambia, Zimbabwe, or Malawi.
- Are permanent residents of one of these countries.
- Live in and/or intend to return to their country after completing their studies.
- The Trust cannot consider applications from those who have already begun a course.
Selection Criteria
Please read this section carefully. It will significantly affect how your application is assessed. The Beit Trust supports applicants who meet specific criteria, and understanding these will help you determine your eligibility and strengthen your application.
Your application will be evaluated based on the following:
Academic Achievement
- Preference is given to applicants with a Distinction or Merit (Upper Second Class) in their undergraduate degree.
- Applicants with a Lower Second Class or Credit/Pass degree are not excluded, but will face strong competition.
- The Trust recognises that some medical degrees are not graded in this way and will take this into account.
Postgraduate Qualifications
- Applicants who already hold a postgraduate degree are generally not considered, except in exceptional cases.
- The Trust aims to support candidates who have not yet had the opportunity to pursue postgraduate study.
Professional Work Experience
Relevant work experience in your proposed field of study is highly valued.
As a guideline, at least three years of professional experience, supported by a positive employer reference, can significantly strengthen your application.
Work experience is also considered an indicator of leadership potential in your field.
Voluntary Work
- The application form includes a section on voluntary work as evidence of community engagement.
- While not essential, voluntary work can enhance your application. However, it is not a substitute for professional experience.
Leadership Qualities
The Trust places strong emphasis on leadership as a sign of your potential to contribute to the economic and social development of your country.
Examples of leadership in academic, professional, or community settings would help you.
References
- References help provide a well-rounded view of your capabilities.
- Referees are most effective when they can offer evidence-based examples of your leadership, achievements, and professional potential.
Course Relevance
Your proposed course of study should align with the Trust’s focus on developmental disciplines, such as:
- Medicine and Health
- Engineering
- Education
- Economic Growth
- Agriculture
- Conservation
These categories are not exhaustive, but the Trust does not support MBA programmes.
Commitment to Return
Also Read: 2026 Mo Ibrahim Foundation Leadership Fellowship Programme Applications, Benefits, and Eligibility
Your stated intention to return to your home country after your studies is a key consideration.
Choice of University
- You must apply to one or more of the Beit Trust’s partner universities, listed in the next section.
- Applying to multiple partner universities may improve your chances of selection.
Medical and Veterinary Applicants
You must have completed:
- 18 months of internship
- At least one year of in-country posting
- Experience in rural practice could strengthen your application.
For more information: Visit the website for Beit Trust Postgraduate Scholarships 2026/2027 for Africans
