Cecil Renaud Overseas Scholarship 2027 – Fully Funded Postgraduate Study in the UK for South Africans

The Cecil Renaud Overseas Scholarship offers full postgraduate funding for South African students to study for a Master’s degree (or equivalent) or PhD at a university of their choice in the United Kingdom. Established in memory of Dr Cecil Renaud, a renowned Durban philanthropist, the Trust has awarded 38 scholarships since 1994 to outstanding young South Africans who completed their secondary schooling in KwaZulu-Natal.

Applicants must be in their final year of a postgraduate honours degree or a four‑year undergraduate degree. Applications close on 30 September 2026. If you are looking for similar opportunities, explore fully funded scholarships in United Kingdom for international students.

Scholarship Overview

• Scholarship Name: Cecil Renaud Overseas Scholarship

• Host Country: United Kingdom

• Degree Level: Master’s (or equivalent) or PhD

• Duration: Maximum of two years

• Number of Scholarships: One or two annually

• Target Applicants: South African students who completed secondary schooling in KwaZulu-Natal

• Application Deadline: 30 September 2026

For students seeking other funded programs in Africa and the UK, check latest scholarships in South Africa for all nationalities.

Eligibility Criteria for Cecil Renaud Overseas Scholarship

To apply for the Cecil Renaud Overseas Scholarship, you must meet all of the following requirements:

• Secondary schooling: Completed a major part of your secondary schooling at a school in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

• Current study: Completed or currently studying towards an Honours degree; or a four‑year undergraduate degree

• Age: Under 27 years old at the time of applying

• Academic excellence: Have attained, or aim to achieve, undergraduate or Honours degree(s) of the highest academic standard to gain acceptance to top UK universities. Dean’s Commendations and Certificates of Merit (or equivalent) are advantageous.

• Leadership and impact: Evidence of focus, commitment, stamina, and leadership. A good track record in extracurricular activities and a drive to succeed and uplift South Africa.

• Any field of study – past scholars have pursued MPhil in Development Studies, MA in Applied Theology, MSc in Mathematics, MA in Singing, and many other disciplines.

Scholarship Benefits

The scholarship is a full postgraduate scholarship covering:

• Tuition fees for a Master’s or PhD program at a UK university of your choice

• Living expenses for up to two years (specific amounts not detailed – contact the Trust for details)

Past scholars have attended the University of Cambridge, University of Oxford, University of London, and other top UK institutions.

How to Apply for Cecil Renaud Overseas Scholarship

Step 1: Download the application form from the Cecil Renaud Trust website (or contact the Trust directly).

Step 2: Prepare your application documents, including academic transcripts, proof of KZN secondary schooling, evidence of extracurricular activities and leadership, and a personal statement.

Step 3: Complete the application form and gather all required supporting documents.

Step 4: Submit your application before the deadline. Applications close on 30 September 2026.

Step 5: Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews.

Application Deadline

30 September 2026 – late applications will not be accepted.

For additional financial aid options across the United Kingdom, explore financial aids for students in United Kingdom.

Why Apply for the Cecil Renaud Scholarship?

• Fully funded – tuition and living expenses for up to two years in the UK

• Prestigious – past scholars have attended Oxford, Cambridge, and London

• Flexible fields – open to any discipline

• Proven impact – 38 scholarships awarded since 1994; alumni have become scientists, lawyers, academics, and leaders

• Support for South Africans – specifically for those who attended school in KZN

Past Scholars’ Testimonials

“I would not be here today if it wasn’t for the Cecil Renaud scholarship!” – Bareng A. S. Nonyane, PhD, Scientist at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health

Notable alumni include Max Du Plessis (1996 scholar), who is now one of the selectors and trustees.

Final Thoughts

The Cecil Renaud Overseas Scholarship is a life‑changing opportunity for top‑achieving South African students who completed their schooling in KwaZulu‑Natal.

If you are in your final year of an Honours degree or a four‑year undergraduate degree, and you dream of studying at Oxford, Cambridge, or another top UK university, this scholarship could make it possible. The deadline is 30 September 2026. Download the application form and apply today.

For a complete list of open scholarships in the United Kingdom, visit list of all open scholarships in United Kingdom.

Apply Now for Cecil Renaud Overseas Scholarship (Download the application form from the official website)