MMEG Bursary South Africa 2026 – Closing Date: 14 September 2025

Hey future changemakers! Are you a passionate female student in South Africa dreaming of furthering your education but need a financial boost? Well, get ready, because the MMEG (Margaret McNamara Education Grants) Bursary for 2026 is here, and it’s specifically designed to empower women from developing countries like ours!

MMEG is a super inspiring non-profit that believes in education as a powerful tool to uplift lives, especially for women and children. They want to help you achieve your academic goals and become a leader in your community, just like their namesake, Margaret McNamara, who was a huge advocate for education and gender equality. This bursary could be your ticket to making a real impact!

Who Can Apply?

So, who exactly can snag this amazing opportunity? Listen up, because here’s the lowdown on who MMEG is looking for:

You need to be a female student from South Africa. (Psst, if you’re from another country, MMEG also helps women from other developing nations! Check their official Country Eligibility List to see if your country qualifies.)

You must be officially enrolled (or planning to be enrolled) for in-person studies towards a Certificate, Undergraduate, Graduate, or Post-Doctorate qualification at one of the following accredited South African universities:

Cape Peninsula University of Technology
Central University of Technology
Durban University of Technology
Mangosuthu University of Technology
University of Fort Hare
University of Limpopo
Nelson Mandela University
North-West University
Rhodes University
Sefako Makgatho Health Science 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

You should be enrolled full-time or part-time (at least 2 courses per semester/term). They want to see you committed!

You need to be enrolled for at least one more academic term after the bursary is awarded (which happens around December 2025, with funds arriving in Feb 2026). They want to fund your continued success!

You must also plan to graduate not more than 3 years after receiving the bursary.

Finally, you shouldn’t be related to any International Monetary Fund, World Bank Group, or Inter-American Development Bank staff members, spouses, retirees, or MMEG Board members. Keeping it fair and square!

What Does It Cover?

Alright, the burning question: what kind of financial muscle does this bursary pack?

The MMEG bursary provides a generous grant of up to US$7,000 (which is roughly R126,000, but remember, exchange rates can vary!). This money is given as a grant, so you don’t have to pay it back – amazing! The best part? This bursary covers ALL fields of study! So, whether you’re into science, arts, engineering, or anything in between, as long as it’s for a Certificate, Undergraduate, Graduate, or Post-Doctorate qualification, you’re good to go. The grant funds are typically awarded in February 2026, giving you a solid start to your academic year.

How to Apply?

Ready to take the leap and apply? Awesome! Here’s your step-by-step guide to getting your application in:

First things first, head over to the official MMEG Bursary application portal: MMEG Bursary Application 2026
You’ll need to Register an Account before you can Login and start your application.
Important Tip: When you begin the application, make sure you select the ‘South Africa program’ in the very first question. This ensures your application lands in the right place!
Get these documents ready – they’re super important and make sure they’re clear copies (preferably PDF, JPEG, or PNG):

Your ID document with a photo (if you’re a South African citizen) or your Passport with a photo (if you’re studying outside your home country and need a study permit/visa).
Proof of official university registration (NOT just an acceptance letter) on your university’s letterhead.
Your latest academic reports and transcripts, also on your university’s letterhead.
A brief but compelling personal story: talk about your studies, how your experiences link to your future plans, and your commitment to helping women and children in developing countries.
A short paragraph explaining your financial situation for the academic year and how you plan to cover your expenses (calculate and express this in South African Rand!).
If you’re doing a thesis, include a brief summary: objective, methodology, findings, and how it ties into your career goals. If no thesis, explain how your current studies align with your future professional or volunteer service aims.
Two reference letters:
- One from a faculty member at your university and one from someone who can vouch for your character (NOT a family member!).
- At least one referee must have known you for two semesters or more.
- Crucially, include their email addresses! MMEG will email them a link to submit their recommendations directly. Make sure you get their consent first, and tell them to check their spam folder if they don’t see the email!

Remember, applications close on 14 September 2025 at 11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time. Don’t wait till the last minute – get yours in before the deadline!

For any queries, check the MMEG Bursary FAQ’s first, or email the South Africa Program directly at: southafrica@mmeg.org.

If empowering women through education resonates with you, and this MMEG Bursary sounds like your perfect fit, then what are you waiting for? This is your chance to make a difference in your life and your community. Apply now and explore more amazing bursaries right here on Bursaries Room! Your future is waiting!