The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust (OMT) invites eligible South African students, academics, and researchers to apply for their prestigious scholarship programmes for the 2026 academic years.
Application Closing Dates:
- 28 August 2025 (for studies starting between January and June 2026)
OMT Scholarship Programmes Available
OMT offers three distinct education grants:
1. OMT Scholarship for Masters and Doctoral Studies
Supports postgraduate study at Master’s or Doctoral level at local or international Higher Education Institutions.
2. OMT Scholarship for Postdoctoral Studies
Funds postdoctoral research at local or international Higher Education Institutions.
3. OMT Scholarship for Sabbatical Studies
Supports full-time academics undertaking sabbatical research at South African public Higher Education Institutions.
Scholarship Coverage and Conditions
- Value: The scholarship amount depends on individual circumstances. It is not a full-cost scholarship. Applicants must apply for additional funding.
- Duration: Funding is awarded per academic year only. Renewals are not automatic and depend on performance and reporting compliance.
Eligibility Criteria
Masters and Doctoral Applicants
- Must be South African citizens or permanent residents
- Enrolled in Master’s or Doctoral studies in 2025/2026
- Studying at a recognised local or international institution
- Demonstrate academic excellence and commitment to research or development careers
- International applicants must justify the need for overseas study or mentorship
Postdoctoral Applicants
- Open to South African citizens, permanent residents, or foreign nationals
- Registered for postdoctoral studies in 2025/2026
- Studying at a recognised local or international institution
- Must show strong academic credentials and alignment with research careers in South Africa
Sabbatical Applicants
- Full-time academics based at a South African public Higher Education Institution
- Preference to those with a proven teaching and research track record
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following:
- Certified ID, passport, or residency proof
- Recent professional photo
- Updated CV (max 3–4 pages)
- Academic transcripts and degree certificates
- Proof of registration or acceptance
- Details of intended study and project
- Budget with estimated expenses (tuition, travel, books, living costs, etc.)
- Motivational letter (max 500 words)
- Proof of income
- 3 letters of recommendation (uploaded directly by referees)
Specific document lists may differ slightly between Masters, Postdoctoral, and Sabbatical streams.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online at the official portal:
Apply for OMT Scholarships 2025/2026
Before applying, download and read the full application guide:
OMT Scholarship Application Guidelines (PDF)
Important Notes
- Late applications will not be accepted.
- Scholarships are limited and highly competitive.
- Final selection is based on academic merit, motivation, and compliance with all application requirements.