The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has officially opened applications for the Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship 2026, a prestigious international scholarship opportunity designed to support high-achieving female graduates from Durban who wish to pursue postgraduate studies overseas.
Closing Date: 13 March 2026
This scholarship offers successful candidates the chance to gain global academic exposure, expand their intellectual horizons, and return to South Africa with international experience and skills that contribute to national development.
About the Scholarship Provider – University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
UKZN is one of South Africa’s leading public universities, recognised for its strong academic reputation, research excellence, and commitment to international engagement. Through scholarships such as the Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship, UKZN supports students in accessing world-class postgraduate education abroad.
About the Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship Programme 2026
The Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship is awarded to female graduates residing in Durban who intend to pursue full-time postgraduate studies overseas in any field of study.
Key Highlights:
- Open to any postgraduate field
- Supports international study
- Focused on academic excellence and leadership potential
- Encourages global exposure and knowledge transfer back to South Africa
Duration and Funding
- Funding Period: Up to 2 years
- Study Location: Overseas (international institutions)
- Study Level: Postgraduate studies
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Requirements)
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be female
- Must be under 25 years old as at 1 January 2026
- Must have been a resident of Durban for at least 3 years
- Must be a high-achieving graduate
- Must have completed a minimum 2-year degree (preference given to 5-year qualifications)
- Must have been registered at a South African university for at least 2 years
- Must intend to pursue full-time postgraduate studies overseas within 18 months of receiving the award
- Must not be receiving any other scholarship, bursary, or paid appointment
Failure to meet any of these requirements will result in disqualification.
Fields of Study Covered
- Any postgraduate field of study
There are no discipline restrictions, making this scholarship especially attractive to graduates across humanities, sciences, commerce, health sciences, law, engineering, and creative fields.
How to Apply for the Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship 2026
Step 1: Download the Application Form
Download and complete the official application form here:
Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship Application 2026 (.docx)
Step 2: Prepare the Required Supporting Documents
Submit clear copies of the following documents (mandatory):
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Full academic record
- Proof of contact with foreign host universities (including intended courses)
- Two (2) reference letters
- Motivational letter explaining why you are applying
- Full Curriculum Vitae (no certificates)
- Proof of residence in Durban
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Completed application forms and supporting documents must be submitted via email to the Financial Aid Advisor on your UKZN campus.
(Email addresses are provided in the application form.)
Closing Date
13 March 2026
Late applications will not be accepted.
Why This Scholarship Is Important
The Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship is a rare opportunity for young South African women to access international postgraduate education without field restrictions. It supports academic excellence, global exposure, and leadership development while strengthening South Africa’s future skills base.
If you are a high-performing female graduate from Durban with aspirations to study abroad, this is an opportunity you should not miss.