Need help paying for university? The MMEG Bursary for South Africa closes soon, so act now.
What the bursary offers
The Margaret McNamara Education Grants (MMEG) programme gives financial support to women who want to improve the lives of women and children. It is one of the few international funds that is only for female students.
Who can apply
- South‑African citizen or from an eligible developing country
- Identify as female
- At least 25 years old when you apply
- Enrolled full‑time or part‑time at an approved South African university
- Studying on campus (not online)
- Registered for a recognised certificate, undergraduate, graduate or post‑doctorate qualification
- Have at least one academic term left after the award
- Plan to finish your studies within three years of receiving the grant
You must also show a clear commitment to helping women and children in developing nations.
What you receive
- Up to US$7 500 (about R120 000) – the exact amount depends on exchange rates and funding availability.
- The bursary can be used for any field of study, from certificate programmes to post‑doctoral research.
Eligible universities
- University of Cape Town
- University of Johannesburg
- University of Pretoria
- University of Limpopo
- University of KwaZulu‑Natal
- University of the Witwatersrand
- Stellenbosch University
- University of Venda
- Tshwane University of Technology
- Walter Sisulu University
- Other accredited South African institutions approved by MMEG
Documents you will need
- Certified copy of ID or passport
- Study permit or visa (if you are an international student)
- Proof of registration at your university
- Academic transcripts and latest results
- Personal motivation statement and details of your finances
- Brief summary of your thesis or research (if relevant)
- Two reference letters
Save everything as PDF before you upload.
How to apply – step by step
- Gather all the documents listed above.
- Visit the official MMEG portal and create an account.
- Complete the online form with your personal and study details.
- Upload each document in PDF format.
- Review everything carefully, then submit before the deadline.
Apply now: MMEG Bursary South Africa 2027 application
Tips to strengthen your application
- Start early. Many applicants wait until the last week and miss the deadline.
- Write a clear, personal motivation letter. Explain why you care about women’s and children’s issues.
- Choose referees who know your academic work and community involvement.
- Double‑check that your study programme will finish within three years of the award.
- Proofread all PDFs – spelling errors can give a careless impression.
Deadline
The application closes on 14 September 2026 at 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time. Late submissions will not be accepted.
Next steps
If you meet the criteria, follow the steps above and send your application today. Even if you are unsure, applying is the first step toward a possible funding boost for your studies.
