Canon Collins Trust Mail & Guardian Scholarship 2026: Requirements and How to Apply

The Mail & Guardian Scholarship is a postgraduate opportunity that supports exceptional journalists and media students committed to social justice, offering both financial support and hands-on experience.

About the Scholarship

The Canon Collins Trust partners with the Mail & Guardian newspaper to offer this prestigious scholarship. 

It supports Honours and Master’s students in Journalism, Communications, or Media Studies at South African universities and includes a paid internship opportunity at the Mail & Guardian focused on issues related to human rights or education. 

Funding is made possible through the Sol Plaatje Educational Project (SPEP).

Eligibility Criteria

You must meet all of the following conditions:

1. Be a southern African national, residing in South Africa, from one of these countries: South Africa, Zimbabwe, Lesotho, Namibia, Zambia, Malawi, Eswatini, Botswana, Angola, Mozambique.
2. Hold a good Honours degree (minimum second class, upper division) or be in your final year.
3. Be applying for a one-year, full-time Master’s in Journalism, Communication, or Media Studies at a South African university, or already enrolled in a two-year Master’s in these fields.
4. Be able to undertake a 12-month paid internship as a Reporter at the Mail & Guardian.
5. Show a demonstrated commitment to education or human rights through your experience.

What the Scholarship Offers

• Funding toward your Master’s tuition for the duration of the course.
• A 12-month paid internship at the Mail & Guardian in a role focusing on human rights or education.
• Access to leadership development, networking opportunities, and scholar events.

How to Apply

• Download and read the official guidelines before applying.
• Submit your application online via the Canon Collins Trust website.

Closing Date

• All applications must be submitted by 15:00 GMT (17:00 SAST) on 3 November 2025.
• Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.