MMEG South Africa Program: Bursary Opportunity for Women in Developing Countries

If you are a woman from a developing country who is studying in South Africa, the Margaret McNamara Education Grants (MMEG) South Africa Program offers an excellent opportunity to receive financial support for your education. Applications for this prestigious grant open on May 15 and close on September 14 each year, and only complete applications submitted by the deadline will be considered.

The MMEG South Africa Program is designed to support women who are committed to improving the lives of women and children in developing countries. This article explains who is eligible, what documents are required, and how to apply successfully.

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for the MMEG South Africa Program, applicants must meet several general eligibility requirements. These include:

  • Identifying as a woman and being at least 25 years old by the application deadline
  • Being a national of an eligible country as listed on the MMEG country eligibility list
  • Being registered (not just accepted) in an in-person academic program at an accredited institution
  • Planning to be enrolled for at least one academic semester after the grant is awarded
  • Planning to graduate no later than three years after receiving the grant
  • Not being related to a staff member of the World Bank Group, International Monetary Fund, Inter-American Development Bank, or a member of the MMEG Board
  • Being able to complete the application in English, and attend an interview if selected as a finalist

Additional Eligibility for the South Africa Program

If you are applying through the South Africa Program, you must also meet the following specific requirements:

  • Already be enrolled either full-time or part-time (minimum of two courses per term) at one of the eligible South African universities
  • Be enrolled in a study program for at least one academic semester following the award date in December
  • Plan to graduate within three years of receiving the grant
  • Hold a valid South African study permit if you are applying from another eligible country
  • Submit all estimated expenses in South African Rand

If the South Africa Program does not appear in the first question of the application form, it means that the program is currently closed to new applications. You may contact southafrica@mmeg.org for queries, and results will be announced in December on the official website.

What Documents Are Required?

To complete your application, all the documents listed in the application checklist must be submitted. Missing or incomplete documents will lead to disqualification, and incomplete applications will not be reviewed.

Make sure you prepare the following documents in digital format (PDF preferred):

  • Identification document with photo and date of birth (passport or government-issued ID)
  • Proof of official university registration (not an acceptance letter)
  • Recent academic transcripts or reports
  • Study permit or visa page in your passport if studying outside your home country
  • Second passport page (if you have dual citizenship)

In addition to uploading the above documents in the online form, you will also be asked to provide the following written content:

  • A short personal story highlighting how your academic goals and life experiences are connected to your passion for supporting women and children in developing countries
  • A clear financial estimate for the coming academic year, including how you plan to fund your studies
  • A summary of your thesis if applicable, explaining its purpose, methodology, and relevance to your future career

Reference Letters

Two reference letters are required for your application. One of your referees must be a faculty member at your current university. The second referee can be any non-family member who can speak to your character and academic potential. At least one of the referees must have known you for a minimum of one year.

Once you confirm your referees, you will be asked to provide their email addresses in the application form. The online platform, Embark, will automatically send them a link to submit their recommendations. You will be notified when each reference letter has been submitted.

How to Apply

Before you begin your application, take time to carefully read the official application checklist and frequently asked questions. Make sure all your documents are scanned and named correctly before uploading. Always double-check that you have filled out every part of the online form.

Incomplete applications or those submitted after the deadline will not be considered. Take note of the time zone difference and submit early to avoid last-minute issues. Selection results will be shared in December, and successful applicants will receive personal notifications by email.

If you meet the eligibility criteria and are ready to apply, visit the official application portal here: Apply for the MMEG South Africa Program.