LLM/MPhil Human Rights and Democratisation in Africa Scholarships at University of Pretoria

African nationals can apply for scholarships to cover the costs of the one-year full-time LLM/MPhil in Human Rights and Democratisation in Africa (HRDA) at the University of Pretoria. The programme is run by the Centre for Human Rights. The scholarships are intended to remove financial barriers so you can focus on the programme.

• Host: Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria, South Africa
• Level: LLM/MPhil (Master's)
• Study destination: South Africa
• Deadline: 31 July 2026
• Awards: Up to 25 scholarships
• Coverage: Full scholarships covering at least tuition, accommodation and official programme activities
• Target group: Citizens of Africa

This scholarship suits African nationals who hold a first law degree (LLB, licence en droit or licenciatura em direito) or an Honours degree in a field related to human rights and democratisation. You should have strong academic records and a clear commitment to human rights work in Africa, ideally in your home country. Women and members of minority groups, including indigenous people, LGBTI persons and persons with disabilities, are especially encouraged to apply.

Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria

LLM/MPhil in Human Rights and Democratisation

Up to 25

Citizens of Africa

Full scholarships are available, subject to funding. They cover at least tuition, accommodation and official programme activities. The exact number and scope of awards may depend on the funding available that year.

You must be a national of an African country and hold a first degree in Law (LLB, licence en droit or licenciatura em direito) or an Honours degree relevant to human rights and democratisation.

You also need to show a genuine professional, academic and personal interest in human rights and democratisation in Africa, and a commitment to using the qualification in your future career, preferably in your home country. Excellent academic credentials are required. Women and members of minority groups, such as indigenous people, LGBTI persons and persons with disabilities, are particularly encouraged to apply.

Submit your application online by 31 July 2026.

For full details on how to apply, check the official website linked below.

• Who can apply for this scholarship? Nationals of African countries who hold a first law degree or an Honours degree relevant to human rights and democratisation, and who meet the academic and commitment criteria.
• What does the scholarship cover? Full scholarships cover at least tuition, accommodation and official programme activities, depending on funding availability.
• How many scholarships are awarded? Up to 25 scholarships are available.
• When is the application deadline? The deadline is 31 July 2026.
• How do I apply? Applications are made online. Visit the official website for detailed instructions.

• Read the official guidelines carefully before starting your application.
• Prepare your academic transcripts and degree certificates early.
• Check whether you need to provide proof of language proficiency.
• Write a clear statement showing your commitment to human rights and democratisation in Africa.
• Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid technical problems.