The Human Rights LLM Scholarship 2026 in South Africa is a prestigious one-year intensive Master’s programme offered by the Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria. It is the only course of its kind in Africa, combining academic excellence with practical training in human rights.
The Centre for Human Rights is an academic department and NGO at the Faculty of Law, University of Pretoria. It hosts the HRDA programme, which is the hub of the African regional programme under the Global Campus of Human Rights, a network of over 100 universities worldwide.
Human Rights LLM Scholarship Benefits
- Full-scholarships covering at least tuition, accommodation and official programme activities for up to 25 citizens of Africa (depending on funding availability).
- Partial or self-funding options available for students not awarded full scholarships.
Human Rights LLM Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
- Be citizens of African countries.
- Hold a law degree or relevant qualification meeting admission criteria.
- Demonstrate strong academic performance and commitment to human rights.
- Have proficiency in English (TOEFL required if undergraduate studies were not in English).
How to Apply for Human Rights LLM Scholarship?
- Visit the HRDA application portal at https://upnet.up.ac.za/psc/upapply/EMPLOYEE/SA/c/UP_OAP_MENU.UP_OAP_LOGIN_FL.GBL?&
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload required documents (academic transcripts, certificates, proof of English proficiency, motivation letter, CV).
- Submit before 31 July 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the Human Rights LLM Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and how to apply.
What is the Human Rights LLM Scholarship?
It is a one-year intensive Master’s programme in Human Rights and Democratisation in Africa offered by the Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria. It is the only course of its kind in Africa, combining academic excellence with practical training.
Who can apply for this scholarship?
Citizens of African countries who hold a law degree or relevant qualification, demonstrate strong academic performance and commitment to human rights, and have proficiency in English (TOEFL required if undergraduate studies were not in English).
What does the scholarship cover?
Full scholarships cover at least tuition, accommodation, and official programme activities for up to 25 citizens of Africa, depending on funding availability. Partial or self-funding options are also available.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline for applications is 31 July 2026.
How many students are selected each year?
A limited number of up to 30 students are selected per year.
Where is the programme held?
Students spend six months in Pretoria at the University of Pretoria and six months at one of the 12 partner universities across Africa.
What is the duration of the programme?
The programme runs full-time over one academic year (two semesters) from the end of January to early December.
What language is the programme taught in?
The medium of instruction is English. Advanced English is provided for non-English speakers, and French is taught to English speakers. Other languages like Arabic or Portuguese are available for bilingual students.
What documents are required for application?
Completed online application form, academic transcripts and certificates, proof of English proficiency (TOEFL if applicable), motivation letter, and curriculum vitae (CV).
How do I apply for the scholarship?
Visit the HRDA application portal, complete the online application form, upload required documents, and submit before 31 July 2026.
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