Margaret McNamara Education Grants (MMEG) invites female students from South Africa to apply for their bursary programme for the 2026 academic year.
Bursary Application Closing Date: 14 July 2025
Bursary Location: South Africa (at selected accredited public universities)
About the MMEG Bursary Programme 2026
The MMEG bursary is a unique opportunity for women from developing countries, including South Africa, who are pursuing studies toward a Certificate, Undergraduate, Postgraduate, or Post-Doctoral qualification at selected South African universities. The programme is designed to empower women to improve the lives of other women and children through education.
Successful candidates will receive a grant of up to US$7 000 (approx. R126 000). Funds will be awarded in February 2026.
Eligibility Requirements
To be considered for the MMEG South Africa Programme 2026, applicants must:
- Be female
- Be a South African citizen or a national from a country listed on the MMEG Country Eligibility List
- Be 25 years or older by the application deadline
- Be enrolled or plan to enroll full-time or part-time (at least 2 courses per term)
- Be registered at one of the following accredited South African institutions:
List of Eligible Universities:
Cape Peninsula University of Technology, Central University of Technology, Durban University of Technology, Mangosuthu University of Technology, Fort Hare University, Limpopo University, Nelson Mandela University, North-West University, Rhodes University, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Sol Plaatje University, Stellenbosch University, Tshwane University of Technology, University of Cape Town, University of Johannesburg, University of KwaZulu-Natal, University of Mpumalanga, University of Pretoria, University of the Free State, University of the Western Cape, University of the Witwatersrand, University of Venda, University of Zululand, Vaal University of Technology, Walter Sisulu University.
Additional requirements:
- Plan to graduate no more than 3 years after receiving the grant
- NOT be related to a staff member or board member of the IMF, World Bank Group, Inter-American Development Bank, or MMEG
Required Supporting Documents
When applying online, you must upload:
- South African ID or passport
- Study visa or permit (if applicable)
- Proof of registration (not just acceptance)
- Latest academic transcripts
- A personal story explaining your background, study purpose, and future goals
- Budget summary of financial situation for 2026 (in Rand)
- Thesis summary (if applicable)
- Two reference letters:
- One from a university faculty member
- One character reference (non-family member)
Note: References must have known you for at least two semesters and must consent to be listed, as they’ll receive a link to submit online.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online at:
Apply for the MMEG South Africa Bursary 2026
(Be sure to select “South Africa program” in the first question of the application.)
Applicants must first register an account on the MMEG platform to complete their submission.
Additional Notes
- The bursary is not repayable.
- Applications close at midnight on 14 July 2025.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted by Embark. If your referee hasn’t received a link, check spam folders or contact MMEG directly.