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The FirstRand Empowerment Foundation (FREF), in partnership with Wadham College at the University of Oxford, invites applications for the 2027 FirstRand Oxford Blavatnik School of Government Scholarship.

The scholarship is part of a five-year partnership designed to support one outstanding South African student each year to pursue a Master of Public Policy (MPP) at the Blavatnik School of Government, University of Oxford.

The programme aims to develop future leaders and changemakers by strengthening their understanding of public policy challenges and their ability to contribute to South Africa’s development.

Key Responsibilities / Programme Activities

• Undertake a Master of Public Policy (MPP) at the University of Oxford’s Blavatnik School of Government.
• Deepen knowledge and understanding of public policy challenges.
• Develop leadership capacity and skills to become an effective changemaker.
• Prepare to contribute to South Africa following completion of postgraduate studies.
• Participate in the academic programme at the University of Oxford.

Eligibility Requirements

• The scholarship is specifically intended for outstanding South African students.
• Demonstrate strong academic excellence.
• Show proven leadership ability and potential.
• Have a record of community involvement.
• Demonstrate the potential to become a future leader and changemaker.
• Show the ability and commitment to contribute to South Africa after completing the programme.
• Meet the admission requirements for the Master of Public Policy at the University of Oxford.

Selection will be conducted by FirstRand alongside its international postgraduate scholarship programme. Candidates will be assessed based on academic excellence, leadership ability, community involvement and their potential to make a meaningful contribution.

Benefits and Support

• Full funding for one student per year to undertake the Master of Public Policy at the University of Oxford.
• Residency at Wadham College, University of Oxford.
• Opportunity to study at the internationally recognised Blavatnik School of Government.
• Advanced academic development in public policy, governance and leadership.

Funding Status: Fully Funded.

Application Process

1. Visit the official University of Oxford Master of Public Policy application webpage.
2. Review the programme admission requirements and application instructions.
3. Submit your application online.
4. Follow the FirstRand scholarship selection and interview process.

Official Application Link:
https://www.bsg.ox.ac.uk/study/mpp/how-apply-mpp

For enquiries: admissions@bsg.ox.ac.uk

Application Opens: 16 October 2026.

Application Deadline: 25 February 2027.

Important: This scholarship is specifically designed for South African students. Applicants should carefully review the nationality and eligibility requirements before applying.