Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Postgraduate Scholarship 2026/2027

Overview

The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust (OMT) awards postgraduate scholarships to support Masters, Doctoral, and Postdoctoral researchers studying at South African or international universities. The programme runs two annual windows: the March 31 window (studies commencing July-December 2026) and the August 31 window (studies commencing January-June 2027). The current window opened on 1 June 2026 and closes 31 August 2026. A separate sabbatical track supports full-time academics at South African public institutions. The OMT has funded over 1,000 scholars since 1965 and has a strong preference for fields relevant to Africa’s development.

Benefits

• Full or partial coverage of tuition fees at the chosen institution (local or international).
• Monthly living stipend for approved study periods.
• Research and travel allowance (amount varies per award level and institution).
• Postdoctoral awards are open to South African citizens, permanent residents, and foreign nationals based in South Africa.

Eligibility

• Masters and Doctoral scholarships: South African citizens or permanent residents only.
• Postdoctoral scholarships: South African citizens, permanent residents, and foreign nationals affiliated with a South African research institution.
• Must be pursuing a Master’s or Doctoral qualification at an accredited higher education institution (local or abroad), or conducting postdoctoral research.
• Must demonstrate academic excellence and a research focus that benefits South Africa or the broader African continent.
• Sabbatical track requires full-time academic appointment at a South African public university.

How to apply

1. Check that your studies fall within the window starting January-June 2027 (this August deadline covers that intake).
2. Create an applicant account on the OMT online portal at omt.org.za/postgraduate-study. All applications are accepted through the portal only - no email or paper submissions.
3. Complete the application form, including: personal details, academic history, proposed research topic, two academic referees, proof of registration or admission letter, and financial need statement.
4. Submit by 31 August 2026, 23:59 SAST.
5. The OMT notifies successful applicants by email within three months of the closing date.
6. Queries: applicationqueries@omt.org.za.