The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust (OMT) invites applications for its postgraduate study scholarships. These scholarships are for Master’s, Doctoral and Postdoctoral level study, and are awarded bi-annually. Applications for studies commencing July to December 2026 are open and must be submitted via OMT’s application portal.
At a glance
- Sponsor/host: Oppenheimer Memorial Trust (OMT)
- Level: Master’s, Doctoral and Postdoctoral
- Fields: All disciplines (OMT notes exclusions for MBAs/DBAs and programmes with a narrow commercial focus)
- Who it’s for: Exceptional candidates with a strong record of academic excellence who intend to pursue careers in academia, research, development or related fields
- Intake covered: Studies commencing July–December 2026
- Closing date: 31 March 2026
About the sponsor
The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust awards scholarships for postgraduate study in South Africa. OMT notes that preference may be given to candidates pursuing studies at local universities, and that international scholarships are considered only for exceptional candidates in specialised disciplines not readily available in South Africa.
Eligibility
- Strong record of academic excellence.
- Intend to pursue a career in academia, research, development or related fields.
- Programme must not be an MBA/DBA or a programme with a narrow commercial focus (as stated by OMT).
- Meet all portal and guideline requirements for your study level (Master’s/Doctoral/Postdoctoral).
What it covers
OMT describes this as scholarship funding for postgraduate study. The scope of funding, allowable costs, and award conditions are set out in OMT’s official guidelines and application portal. Awards are made at the discretion of the Trustees.
Documents to prepare
The portal and guidelines outline the exact requirements. As a practical checklist, prepare:
- Academic records/transcripts (and degree certificates where applicable)
- Research proposal / statement of purpose (if applicable to your level)
- CV
- References/referee details (if required by the portal)
- Any additional supporting documents required by the relevant OMT guideline
Closing date
31 March 2026
Common mistakes to avoid
- Trying to submit by email (OMT states only portal submissions are considered).
- Submitting an incomplete application or missing attachments.
- Applying for excluded programmes (e.g., MBA/DBA).
- Waiting until the last day (portal uploads and referee steps can take time).
How to apply
- Go to the OMT application portal and register (new applicants) or log in.
- Select the relevant postgraduate study category and complete the online application.
- Upload all required documents and submit before the closing date.
Queries: applicationqueries@omt.org.za
Read the relevant OMT guideline for your level (Master’s/Doctoral/Postdoctoral) before you start, then apply via the portal.