MAD Leadership Foundation Scholarship 2027

About this bursary

The Make a Difference Leadership Foundation offers comprehensive scholarship opportunities for the 2027 academic year. Founded in 2003, the organisation supports high-potential young South Africans through their secondary and higher education journeys.

Three distinct streams are available. These cover learners entering Grade 9 at public schools, tertiary students pursuing STEM or Commerce fields, and accounting students on the CA(SA) path funded via the Mike Ilsley Memorial Scholarship in partnership with the FEM Education Foundation.

Beyond financial assistance, the programme prioritises personal growth and leadership skills. Scholars receive ongoing life guidance and structured support to help them become capable leaders in their chosen careers.

Courses of study covered

High School Studies (Grade 9)

Science

Technology

Engineering

Mathematics

Commerce

Chartered Accountancy (CA(SA))

What the bursary covers

Tuition and academic fees

Comprehensive educational support

Individual mentorship and life coaching

Leadership training and growth opportunities

Career development guidance

Who can apply

You qualify if

All candidates must hold South African citizenship and live in a household earning R35,000 or less per month.
High school applicants must currently be in Grade 8, planning to start Grade 9 at an ordinary public school in 2027, with solid leadership and community involvement.
STEM and Commerce candidates must be in Matric or completing their first undergraduate year, holding a minimum overall average of 65%.
Chartered Accountancy candidates must pursue a CA(SA) qualification at an accredited university with at least 70% achieved in Financial Accounting.
Basic proficiency in English and active involvement in local community initiatives are required across all categories.

You do not qualify if

High school applicants intending to attend private schools with fees higher than Quintile 5 public schools, unless receiving a major school bursary.
Applicants whose monthly gross family income exceeds R35,000.
Candidates who do not hold South African citizenship.

Documents you need to submit

Certified copy of applicant ID card (if 16 or older) or birth certificate (if under 16)
Certified copies of parent or guardian ID documents
Latest academic results and complete 2025 school report or transcript
Proof of household income such as recent payslips, affidavits, or SASSA grant confirmation
Death certificate of parents or guardians if deceased

Ensure all identity and income documents are clear and certified before submitting.

How to apply

1
Review the specific eligibility criteria for your chosen scholarship category.
2
Gather and scan clear certified copies of all standard identity and household proof documents.
3
Access the correct online application link for High School, STEM/Commerce, or CA(SA) studies.
4
Complete every section of the digital form and upload your supporting documents.
5
Submit your finished online application before the official closing date on 2 August 2026.

Select the correct form link that directly corresponds to your level or program of study.

How you are selected

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Forms, downloads and links

High School Scholarship Application

madleadership.jotform.com/261193098752565

STEM & Commerce Scholarship Application

madleadership.jotform.com/261122976292561

Mike Ilsley CA(SA) Scholarship Application

madleadership.jotform.com/261122534255550

Email the bursary team

[email protected]