Oppenheimer Memorial Trust invites South African postgraduate students to apply for the OMT Scholarship Programme 2027.
Scholarship Application Closing Date: 31 August 2026
Scholarship Location: South Africa and selected international institutions
Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Scholarship South Africa 2027
The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust has opened applications for its 2027 Scholarship Programme.
The scholarship supports South Africans who want to pursue postgraduate studies, including Masters, Doctoral, postdoctoral and sabbatical studies.
This opportunity is aimed at academically strong students who plan to build careers in academia, research and development in South Africa.
For studies starting between January 2027 and June 2027, applications close on 31 August 2026.
About the Oppenheimer Memorial Trust
The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust was founded in 1958 by the late Mr Harry Oppenheimer in honour of his father, Sir Ernest Oppenheimer.
The Trust aims to make a positive contribution to South African society by supporting education, public interest work and other philanthropic initiatives.
It awards grants to organisations and institutions, mainly in the education sector, and also supports the arts, civil society organisations, policy research and advocacy.
About the Scholarship
The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Scholarship is one of South Africa’s respected sources of postgraduate funding.
The scholarship does not focus on one specific field of study.
Instead, it supports talented postgraduate students across different disciplines who show potential to contribute to academia, research and the development of South Africa.
For young researchers, an OMT scholarship provides financial support and recognition that can strengthen an academic career.
What the Scholarship Covers
The scholarship provides funding towards postgraduate study.
The value of the award depends on the student’s personal circumstances.
Funding may support Masters and Doctoral studies at South African institutions.
In special cases, the scholarship may also support studies at international institutions.
The scholarship may also support postdoctoral and sabbatical study.
Applicants should note that this is not a full-cost scholarship.
Students are encouraged to apply for other funding to cover any outstanding fees and study costs.
Awards are made one academic year at a time.
Renewals are based on academic performance and compliance with reporting requirements.
Who Can Apply?
For Masters and Doctoral scholarships, applicants must be South African citizens or permanent residents.
Applicants must be studying towards a Masters or Doctoral qualification in 2027.
Applicants must have a strong academic record.
Applicants must intend to pursue a career in academia, research, development or a related field in South Africa.
Postdoctoral Scholarship Requirements
For postdoctoral scholarships, South African citizens, permanent residents and foreign nationals may apply.
Applicants must be applying at postdoctoral level.
Sabbatical Scholarship Requirements
For sabbatical scholarships, applicants must be full-time academics undertaking sabbatical study at a public South African institution.
Study Location Requirements
Applicants should study at a local institution.
International study may be supported in exceptional cases where the field is highly specialised and not readily available in South Africa.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare the following supporting documents:
Certified copy of ID, permanent residence permit or passport.
Recent professional photograph.
Curriculum Vitae, maximum 3 pages.
Academic transcripts for all degrees and programmes.
Certified copies of degree certificates.
Proof of acceptance or registration on the institution’s letterhead.
Details of intended study.
Project costs and full budget.
Details of other funding applied for but not yet secured.
Motivational letter, maximum 500 words.
Proof of income.
Three letters of recommendation.
The three letters of recommendation must be uploaded directly by referees through the online portal.
How to apply
Click here to apply for Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Scholarship South Africa 2027.
Applicants must visit the official Oppenheimer Memorial Trust website and download the scholarship application guidelines for their study level.
Applicants must then register and complete the application on the OMT online application portal.
All compulsory documents must be uploaded before submission.
Applicants must also arrange for three referees to submit recommendation letters through the portal.
Scholarship Enquiries
For enquiries related to the Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Scholarship, applicants may contact:
Email: applicationqueries@omt.org.za
Closing Date
The closing date for the Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Scholarship South Africa 2027 is 31 August 2026.
This closing date applies to studies starting between January 2027 and June 2027.
Late applications will not be accepted.
Final Thoughts
The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Scholarship South Africa 2027 is a valuable opportunity for postgraduate students who want to further their studies and contribute to research, academia and development in South Africa.
Masters, Doctoral, postdoctoral and sabbatical applicants who meet the requirements should apply before 31 August 2026 and ensure that all supporting documents are submitted correctly.