The University of Cape Town is inviting top undergraduate students to apply for the 2026 Klaus-Jürgen Bathe Leadership Scholarship—awarding up to R120 000 per year over two years. It’s designed for South African citizens showing academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to serving the nation.

About the Bursary Provider

The Klaus-Jürgen Bathe Leadership Programme was established at UCT in March 2014 through a generous gift from Professor Klaus-Jürgen Bathe, a UCT engineering alumnus. The programme seeks to cultivate principled leaders across all fields who will drive social justice and national progress on the continent.

Fields Covered

The scholarship is open to full-time undergraduate students across all six faculties at UCT, regardless of discipline, provided they have at least two years of study remaining.

Expenses Covered

The scholarship provides up to R120 000 per year, covering tuition, accommodation, meals, books, stationery, and transport. Scholars also receive funding for a six-week leadership attachment (internship abroad or locally).

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following:

  • South African citizen (or sub-Saharan African citizen committed to serving SA and home country)
  • Enrolled in a full-time undergraduate degree at UCT
  • At least two years of study remaining at time of award
  • Academic excellence (top of deans’ merit lists; typically ≥ 65% average)
  • Demonstrated leadership qualities and community service
  • Able to commit to two additional leadership courses and a six-week attachment
  • Financial need is considered but not paramount
  • No current funding covering full cost of study beyond this award

How to Apply

The Student Financial Aid Office identifies six top candidates (one per faculty) from deans’ merits lists and invites them to apply. Invited students complete an application form and write a two-page motivation explaining their leadership goals and public service focus.

Closing Date

31 July 2025 (based on previous cycles; exact UCT announcement for 2026 still pending).

Contact the Bursary Provider

University of Cape Town – Klaus-Jürgen Bathe Leadership Programme
Administrative queries: Student Financial Aid (Department of Student Affairs)
Tel: +27 21 650 XXXX (UCT Finance)
Email: fastudents@uct.ac.za
Website: uct.ac.za/kjbathe-leadership

1. Who is eligible to apply?
South African citizens enrolled full-time at UCT with at least two years of study remaining, strong academic merit, and leadership potential.
2. What expenses does the scholarship cover?
Up to R120 000 per year, covering tuition, accommodation, meals, books, stationery, transport, plus a funded six-week leadership attachment.
3. Is this only for engineering students?
No—students from any of UCT’s six faculties are eligible, provided they meet the criteria.
4. How are candidates selected?
The Student Financial Aid Office invites six top-performing students (based on deans’ merits lists) to apply. Final selection is made by Prof. Bathe and the programme committee.
5. What application steps are involved?
Invited students complete a form and write a two-page motivation detailing their leadership aspirations and public service goals.
6. When is the deadline?
Past closing dates suggest 31 July; UCT has indicated similar timing for 2025. Watch UCT’s official channels for confirmation.
7. Is financial need required?
Financial need is considered but academic and leadership merit are the primary selection factors.
8. What leadership activities are included?
Scholars must complete at least two elective leadership courses and undertake a six-week placement in South Africa, Germany, or the USA.
9. How is the scholarship renewed for the second year?
Renewal depends on maintaining good academic standing and active participation in programme activities after the first year.
10. Who can I contact for queries?
For more info, reach out to Student Financial Aid at fastudents@uct.ac.za.