Cecil Renaud Trust

About the Cecil Renaud Trust

The Cecil Renaud Educational and Charitable Trust honours a Durban philanthropist. Dr Cecil Renaud set up the Trust in 1988. He died on 3 June 1993 and left the rest of his estate to it. The Trust then began its main work: the Cecil Renaud Overseas Scholarship, which has run since 1994.

In that time the Trust has awarded 38 scholarships. It gives one or two awards a year. As a result, the programme is small and very competitive, and each winner receives close attention.

How the scholarship supports students

This is a postgraduate scholarship for study in the United Kingdom. It covers the full costs of postgraduate study for up to two years at a UK university of the winner's choice. Past scholars have gone to Oxford, Cambridge, Edinburgh and London.

All fields of study are open. For example, earlier recipients have completed an MPhil in Development Studies, an MA in Applied Theology, an MSc in Mathematics and an MA in Singing. The Trust looks for promise and impact rather than a particular career path.

The Trust does not attach a formal work-back contract. Instead, it hopes that scholars will bring their skills home. Its stated aim is to back future leaders with a drive to succeed and to uplift South Africa. One 1996 scholar, Max Du Plessis, now serves as a selector and trustee, which shows how the programme builds lasting ties.

What to know before applying

The Trust was created to serve KwaZulu-Natal, so the rules are specific. You must have completed your secondary schooling mainly in KwaZulu-Natal. You must also be under 27 when you apply.

In addition, you must be finishing or have finished an Honours degree or a four-year undergraduate degree at a South African institution. The Trust expects strong results, such as Dean's Commendations or an equivalent. Evidence of leadership and involvement outside the classroom also counts, along with your potential to make a real difference in your field.

Applications for the 2027 award closed on 30 September 2026, so the usual window sits at the end of September. Dates can change, however. Check the Trust's official website before you start, and email the address listed there if you have questions. Because only one or two places exist, start early. Prepare clear references, a well-argued study plan and proof of your achievements.

Choosing a UK course takes planning. British universities set their own entry rules and closing dates, and these are separate from the Trust's timetable. A scholarship is not an offer of a place. For that reason, research courses, departments and supervisors early, and think about how your plan fits one or two years of study. Britain offers both short taught master's degrees and longer research routes, so you can match the programme to your goals.