MMEG (Margaret McNamara Education Grants) Bursary South Africa 2026
Provided by:Margaret McNamara Education Grants (MMEG)
Description
The Margaret McNamara Education Grants (MMEG) is a non-profit organization that assists women from developing countries by providing educational grants. Established in 1981, MMEG is dedicated to promoting education and gender equality, inspired by the legacy of Margaret McNamara. The MMEG Bursary for the 2026 academic year is available to female students from South Africa and eligible countries to support their studies across all fields, leading to various qualifications including Certificate, Undergraduate, Graduate, and Post Doctorate degrees, at designated universities. The bursary grants can reach up to US$7,000, with the precise amount contingent on funding availability and exchange rates. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview two to three months post-application deadline, with results revealed in December 2025. Applicants must meet stringent eligibility criteria, confirming South African nationality, appropriate age, enrollment status at accredited institutions, among other qualifications. The application process requires online submission, registration, and clear documentation of personal and academic details. Relevant supporting papers include identification documents, proof of university registration, academic transcripts, personal narratives and financial estimations, along with reference letters. The closing date for applications is September 14, 2025. Candidates may reach out to MMEG directly for inquiries.
Funding & Program Benefits
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be a South African national or from eligible countries
- Must have a study permit if from an eligible country
- Must identify as a woman/female
- Must be 25 years old or older by the application deadline
- Must be officially enrolled in a qualifying program at an accredited university in South Africa
- Must be enrolled full time or part time (minimum 2 courses per semester)
- Must plan to graduate no more than 3 years after receiving the bursary
- Must not be related to IMF, World Bank, or MMEG Board staff
Required Documents
- ID document with photo (if South African citizen)
- Passport with photo (if studying outside home country)
- Study permit page or visa page with current passport (for foreign candidates)
- Second passport page with photo (if dual citizenship)
- Proof of official registration at a university (on institute's letterhead)
- Latest academic reports and transcripts (on institute's letterhead)
- Details on personal story and future plans
- Estimate of financial situation for the academic year
- Summary of thesis or career goal-related projects
- 2 reference letters (1 from a faculty member and 1 from a character reference)