The MMEG Bursary Programme offers financial grants of up to US$7,000 (approximately R126,000) to empower women from developing countries pursuing higher education at accredited South African universities. Open to female students aged 25+ across all fields—from certificate to postdoctoral studies—the bursary requires applicants to be registered for in-person study with at least one term remaining after the February 2026 award date. Key eligibility includes South African citizenship (or a valid study permit), registration at a listed university, and a commitment to community impact. The application deadline is 14 September 2025 and requires supporting documents such as academic transcripts, a personal story, a financial needs statement, and two reference letters.
Closing Date: 14 September 2025 (11:59 PM Eastern Standard Time)
South Africa (for studies at accredited South African universities)
About the MMEG Bursary Programme
The MMEG Bursary provides financial assistance of up to US$7,000 (approx. R126,000) to women from developing countries who are pursuing higher education in South Africa. The aim is to empower women through education, thereby improving their lives and those of their communities. Grants will be awarded in February 2026.
Fields Covered:
All fields of study are eligible, including:
- Certificate
- Undergraduate
- Graduate
- Postdoctoral studies
Eligible Universities in South Africa:
- University of Cape Town
- University of the Witwatersrand
- University of the Free State
- Stellenbosch University
- University of KwaZulu-Natal
- University of Pretoria
- University of Johannesburg
- University of the Western Cape
- North-West University
- Rhodes University
- Nelson Mandela University
- Walter Sisulu University
- Fort Hare University
- Tshwane University of Technology
- Cape Peninsula University of Technology
- Central University of Technology
- Durban University of Technology
- Vaal University of Technology
- University of Limpopo
- University of Mpumalanga
- Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
- University of Venda
- Sol Plaatje University
- University of Zululand
- Mangosuthu University of Technology
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must identify as female
- Must be a South African citizen (or from another eligible developing country with a valid study permit)
- Must be 25 years or older at time of application
- Must be officially registered for in-person full-time or part-time study (minimum 2 courses per term)
- Must be registered at one of the listed South African universities
- Must have at least one academic term remaining after receiving the bursary
- Must not be related to World Bank, IMF, Inter-American Development Bank, or MMEG staff/board
Required Documents:
- South African ID document or passport (with visa/study permit if applicable)
- Proof of university registration (not just an acceptance letter)
- Academic transcripts and recent results
- Personal story, academic background, and motivation for helping women and children in developing countries
- Financial needs statement, with estimated costs in Rands
- Summary of thesis or description of how studies align with career/volunteer goals
- 2 reference letters (1 from faculty and 1 character reference; not family)
How to apply
Click here to apply for the MMEG Bursary Programme 2026(Select “South Africa program” in the first question of the application)
Note:
- You must register an account and upload all documents in PDF, JPEG or PNG format.
- Reference letters will be submitted via email links sent to your referees – ensure they are informed and have consented.
- Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Apply well before the 14 September 2025 deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
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