Oppenheimer Memorial Trust (OMT) Scholarship 2026 / 2027

The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust (OMT) Scholarship is one of South Africa’s most prestigious funding opportunities for postgraduate and academic research. Designed to support advanced study at Master’s, Doctoral, Postdoctoral and Sabbatical levels, the programme plays a significant role in strengthening research, innovation and academic leadership in the country.

If you are planning to pursue postgraduate studies in 2026 or 2027, this guide will walk you through the scholarship types, eligibility criteria, application process, required documents and closing dates.

Overview of the OMT Scholarship Programmes

The OMT Scholarship offers funding in three main categories:

1. Master’s and Doctoral Scholarships

2. Postdoctoral Scholarships

3. Sabbatical Study Scholarships for Academics

Each category has specific requirements and documentation, but all share a common goal: supporting high-achieving individuals who intend to contribute meaningfully to academia, research, development and related fields in South Africa.

Importantly, the scholarship is not a full-cost award. The value granted depends on the applicant’s personal circumstances. Successful candidates are encouraged to secure additional funding sources where necessary.

Scholarships are awarded for one academic year at a time, and renewal is not automatic. Continued funding depends on academic performance, compliance with reporting requirements and successful re-application.

1. OMT Master’s and Doctoral Scholarships

Who Can Apply?

To qualify for the Master’s or Doctoral scholarship, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:

• Be a South African citizen or permanent resident.

• Be studying towards a Master’s or Doctoral qualification in 2026 or 2027.

• Be enrolled at a local or international higher education institution.

• Have a strong academic record.

• Intend to pursue a career in academia, research, development or related fields in South Africa 

International Study Applicants

Applicants planning to study abroad must demonstrate exceptional merit. They must show that:

• Their chosen programme is in a highly specialised discipline not readily available in South Africa, or

• They have progressed to a level where studying under global leaders in their discipline is necessary for meaningful academic advancement

This ensures that international funding supports strategic academic development that benefits South Africa in the long term.

2. OMT Postdoctoral Scholarships

The Postdoctoral Scholarship is aimed at advanced researchers seeking to deepen their expertise.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must:

• Be a South African citizen, permanent resident, or foreign national.

• Be studying towards a postdoctoral qualification in 2026 or 2027.

• Study at a local or international higher education institution.

• Have a strong academic record.

• Intend to pursue a career in academia, research or development in South Africa

International applicants must meet the same exceptional criteria required for overseas Master’s and Doctoral candidates.

This category supports the growth of high-level research capacity and leadership within South Africa’s academic and innovation sectors.

3. OMT Sabbatical Study Scholarships

The Sabbatical Scholarship is specifically designed for full-time academics.

Who Qualifies?

Applicants must:

• Be full-time academics undertaking sabbatical study.

• Be studying at a public higher education institution in South Africa.

• Have a proven record of teaching and research (preference is given to strong academic contributors)

This scholarship helps experienced academics advance their research, publish significant work and contribute further to institutional development.

How to Apply for the OMT Scholarship

Applications must be submitted online through the official OMT application portal 

Before applying, candidates are encouraged to download and carefully read the relevant scholarship guidelines for their category 

Required Supporting Documents

All applicants must submit clear copies of required documentation. Missing documents may result in disqualification 

For Master’s and Doctoral Applicants:

• Certified ID, permanent residence permit or passport

• Professional photograph

• Updated CV (maximum 3 pages)

• Academic transcripts

• Certified degree certificates

• Proof of acceptance or registration

• Study details (degree, institution, duration)

• Research/project cost details

• Budget (tuition, living costs, travel, books, etc.)

• Details of other funding applied for

• Motivational letter (maximum 500 words)

• Proof of income

• Three letters of recommendation (uploaded by referees) 

For Postdoctoral Applicants:

Documentation requirements are similar, including:

• Certified ID/passport

• CV (maximum 3 pages)

• Academic transcripts and certificates

• Proof of institutional acceptance

• Budget breakdown

• Motivational letter (maximum 500 words)

• Proof of income

• Three referee letters 

For Sabbatical Applicants:

• Professional photograph

• CV (maximum 4 pages)

• Motivational letter (maximum 500 words)

• Study details

• Confirmation or invitation letters

• Budget

• Proof of income

• Synopsis of 2–3 best publications

• Three referee letters 

The motivational letter plays a critical role. It must outline your background, values, academic aspirations, career goals and the broader impact of your studies.

Closing Dates for 2026 / 2027

The following deadlines apply to all scholarship categories:

• 31 March 2026 – For studies beginning July 2026 to December 2026.

• 31 August 2026 – For studies beginning January 2027 to June 2027 

Late applications are not accepted, so early preparation is strongly recommended.

Key Things to Remember

• The scholarship is not full-cost funding

• Funding is awarded for one year at a time.

• Renewal depends on performance and compliance.

• International study requires exceptional justification.

• A strong academic record is essential.

• The motivational letter and references are critical components.

Why the OMT Scholarship Matters

The OMT Scholarship is more than financial support. It is an investment in South Africa’s intellectual capital. By funding postgraduate and academic research, the programme contributes to:

• Research innovation

• Academic excellence

• National development

• Leadership in specialised fields

• Knowledge production that benefits communities

For aspiring researchers, academics and thought leaders, this scholarship can be a transformative opportunity.

The OMT Scholarship is competitive, but for committed and academically strong candidates, it offers a pathway to advanced study and meaningful contribution to South Africa’s future.

If you meet the requirements and have a clear academic vision, this could be your opportunity to take your research journey to the next level.