The UKZN Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship 2026 supports high-achieving female graduates from Durban to pursue full-time postgraduate studies overseas, with funding for up to two years.
UKZN Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship 2026 Overview
The University of KwaZulu-Natal has opened applications for the Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship for the 2026 academic cycle. This scholarship is a competitive international funding opportunity aimed at academically strong female graduates from Durban who plan to pursue postgraduate studies abroad.
The scholarship is designed to support global academic exposure while encouraging recipients to return to South Africa with advanced knowledge, international experience, and leadership capacity that can contribute to national development.
About the Scholarship Provider
The University of KwaZulu-Natal is one of South Africa’s leading public universities, known for its research output, academic excellence, and international partnerships. Through targeted funding initiatives such as the Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship, the university supports postgraduate development beyond South Africa’s borders while maintaining a strong focus on skills transfer and long-term impact.
Purpose of the Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship
The Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship is intended to enable promising young women to access postgraduate education at recognised international institutions. The programme places emphasis on academic merit, leadership potential, and the value of global exposure.
The scholarship supports full-time postgraduate study in any academic discipline and encourages recipients to apply the knowledge gained abroad in ways that benefit South Africa.
Funding Duration and Study Level
The scholarship provides funding for a defined postgraduate study period.
- Funding period: Up to two years
- Level of study: Postgraduate
- Location of study: Overseas institutions
The award supports structured academic progression at international universities.
Fields of Study Covered
There are no field restrictions under this scholarship. Applicants may pursue postgraduate studies in any discipline, including but not limited to:
- Humanities and social sciences
- Science and technology
- Commerce and management
- Health sciences
- Law
- Engineering
- Creative and applied fields
This flexibility makes the scholarship accessible to graduates across a wide range of academic backgrounds.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria to be considered.
Citizenship and Demographic Requirements
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be female
- Must be under the age of 25 on 1 January 2026
- Must have been a resident of Durban for at least three years
Academic Requirements
- Must be a high-achieving graduate
- Must have completed a minimum two-year degree
- Preference may be given to applicants with five-year qualifications
- Must have been registered at a South African university for at least two years
Study Intentions and Funding Conditions
- Must intend to pursue full-time postgraduate studies overseas within 18 months of receiving the award
- Must not be in receipt of any other scholarship, bursary, or paid appointment
Failure to meet any requirement will result in disqualification.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit clear and complete documentation with their application.
Required documents include:
- Certified copy of South African identity document
- Full academic record
- Proof of communication with foreign host universities, including intended courses
- Two reference letters
- Motivational letter explaining the reason for application
- Full curriculum vitae (certificates not required)
- Proof of residence in Durban
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Application Process
Applicants are required to complete the official Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship application form and submit it together with all supporting documents.
Completed applications must be emailed to the Financial Aid Advisor at the applicant’s UKZN campus. The relevant contact details are provided in the application form.
Important Application Date
The closing date for applications is 13 March 2026.
Late applications will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Why the Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship Matters
This scholarship provides a rare opportunity for young South African women to pursue postgraduate studies abroad without discipline restrictions. It supports academic excellence, leadership development, and international exposure while strengthening South Africa’s future skills base.
By investing in high-performing graduates from Durban, the programme contributes to long-term national development through global knowledge exchange and professional growth.
Conclusion
The UKZN Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship 2026 is a prestigious opportunity for academically strong female graduates who aspire to study overseas and gain international experience. With funding for up to two years and no field restrictions, the scholarship opens doors to world-class postgraduate education.
For eligible candidates committed to excellence, leadership, and contributing to South Africa’s future, this scholarship represents a meaningful step toward global academic and professional development.
