MAD Leadership Foundation Bursaries 2027 for High School & Undergrad
Bursary Description
About the Bursary
The Make a Difference Leadership Foundation (MAD) is a prominent South African organisation dedicated to nurturing future leaders. For the 2027 academic year, MAD is extending an invitation to eligible students across the nation to apply for its prestigious scholarship awards. These scholarships are designed not only to alleviate the financial burden of education but also to provide comprehensive support throughout a scholar's academic journey and into their professional careers. The foundation's commitment goes beyond mere financial aid, aiming to empower young individuals with the resources, mentorship, and opportunities needed to excel and make a significant positive impact in South Africa.
MAD offers three distinct scholarship opportunities, each tailored to specific educational levels and fields of study. This ensures a broad reach and caters to a diverse range of aspiring students. The foundation's holistic approach focuses on identifying and supporting individuals who demonstrate not only academic potential but also strong leadership qualities and a commitment to community service, thereby fostering a new generation of influential and responsible citizens.
What the Bursary Covers
High school studies (for Grade 9 entrants)
Undergraduate STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) studies
Undergraduate Commerce studies
Undergraduate Chartered Accountancy (CA(SA)) studies
Contact the sponsor for full details on what the bursary covers.
Who Should Apply
The MAD Leadership Foundation offers scholarships for different stages of education. The MAD Leadership Scholarship (High School) is for South African citizens currently in Grade 8 (in 2026) who will be entering Grade 9 in 2027. Applicants must attend a public high school (with exceptions for private schools under specific conditions) and have a total gross household income not exceeding R35,000 per month. Basic English proficiency, demonstrated leadership at school, and active community service involvement are also essential criteria.
For undergraduate studies, the MAD Leadership Scholarship (STEM or Commerce) is open to South African citizens who have completed or are currently in Matric. They must be intending to study or already be in their first year of a STEM or Commerce qualification at a recognised South African tertiary institution for 2027. A minimum overall average of 65% is required, along with a household income not exceeding R35,000 per month. The Mike Ilsley Memorial (MIM) Scholarship specifically targets South African citizens who have completed Matric and are pursuing or intend to pursue a Chartered Accountancy (CA(SA)) qualification, either in their first or second year of study at a recognised institution. This scholarship requires a minimum of 70% in Financial Accounting, a household income not exceeding R35,000 per month, and a strong sense of responsibility, leadership traits, and community service involvement.
Why This Bursary Stands Out
The MAD Leadership Foundation distinguishes itself through its comprehensive support system that extends beyond financial assistance. Scholars benefit from a structured journey that includes mentorship and guidance, preparing them for future professional challenges. The foundation's focus on leadership development and community engagement ensures that recipients are not only academically proficient but also well-rounded individuals poised to make a significant societal contribution. This holistic approach cultivates a strong network of future leaders, offering unparalleled opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Securing a MAD Leadership Scholarship signifies entry into a supportive network of peers and mentors, fostering a collaborative environment for success. The foundation's commitment to supporting students from high school through to tertiary education, and even into their professional lives, provides a unique and invaluable pathway for ambitious young South Africans. The emphasis on leadership and community service equips scholars with essential skills and values, setting them apart as they embark on their careers and contribute to the nation's development.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online at:
Please note:
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted and may be required to undergo psychometric and leadership assessments
MAD Leadership Scholarship: High School: if you do not receive any feedback by 31 December 2026, please consider your application unsuccessful.
MAD Leadership Scholarship: STEM or Commerce studies: if you do not receive any feedback by 31 December 2026, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Mike Ilsley Memorial (MIM) Scholarship: Chartered Accountants (CA(SA)) studies: if you do not receive any feedback by 27 February 2027, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Requirements
Applicants must be South African citizens.
MAD Leadership Scholarship (High School): Currently in Grade 8 (in 2026), entering Grade 9 in 2027. Must attend a public high school (exceptions apply for private schools under specific fee conditions). Total gross household income not more than R35,000 per month. Basic English proficiency. Display leadership at school. Actively involved in community service.
MAD Leadership Scholarship (STEM or Commerce studies): Currently in Matric or have completed Matric. Studying (1st year) or intend on studying towards a qualification within a STEM or Commerce field. Applied/accepted to study at a recognised tertiary institution in South Africa for 2027. Minimum overall average of 65%. Passionate about studies. Total gross household income not more than R35,000 per month. Basic English language skills.
Mike Ilsley Memorial (MIM) Scholarship (CA(SA)): Completed Matric. Studying (1st or 2nd year) or intend on studying towards a Chartered Accountancy (CA(SA)) qualification. Applied/accepted to study at a recognised tertiary institution in South Africa for 2027. Minimum result of 70% in Financial Accounting. Total gross household income not more than R35,000 per month. Strong sense of responsibility. Good leadership traits. Community service involvement.