The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust (OMT) is inviting eligible candidates to apply for its scholarship programmes for the 2025 / 2026 academic years. These prestigious scholarships are designed to support postgraduate study, postdoctoral research, and academic sabbaticals both in South Africa and abroad.
Closing Date: 28 August 2025
About the OMT Scholarships
The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust has a long-standing commitment to advancing knowledge, education, and research excellence. Through its scholarship initiatives, OMT provides financial assistance to exceptional students and academics who are committed to contributing meaningfully to academia, research, and development.
For the 2025 / 2026 cycle, OMT will be awarding scholarships in three categories, covering Masters, Doctoral, Postdoctoral, and Sabbatical studies.
Types of OMT Scholarships Available
1. OMT Scholarship for Masters and Doctoral Studies
- Open to South African citizens or permanent residents.
- Covers postgraduate study at local or international universities.
- Available for candidates pursuing Master’s or Doctoral qualifications.
- Applicants must show strong academic records and a clear commitment to pursuing a career in academia, research, or development.
2. OMT Scholarship for Postdoctoral Studies
- Open to South Africans, permanent residents, and foreign nationals.
- Supports postdoctoral research at both local and international institutions.
- International applicants must demonstrate unique, specialised research plans that require global-level engagement.
3. OMT Scholarship for Sabbatical Studies
- Designed for full-time academics at public universities in South Africa.
- Provides funding to support sabbatical research and academic advancement.
- Preference is given to candidates with a proven track record of teaching and research excellence.
Scholarship Coverage and Renewal
- The scholarship does not cover the full cost of study. Applicants are expected to seek additional funding to meet outstanding expenses.
- Awards are granted for one academic year at a time.
- Renewal is not automatic and will depend on:
- Academic performance
- Compliance with reporting requirements
- Submission of a new application
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify, applicants must meet the following minimum criteria (depending on scholarship type):
Masters and Doctoral Studies
- Must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
- Must demonstrate a strong academic track record.
- Must be accepted for postgraduate study at a local or international university.
- Should intend to pursue a career in academia, research, or development.
Postdoctoral Studies
- Open to South Africans, permanent residents, or foreign nationals.
- Must have an excellent academic record.
- International applicants should present specialised, global-level research needs.
Sabbatical Studies
- Must be a full-time academic at a South African public university.
- Must show proven teaching and research performance.
- Preference given to candidates with a strong academic reputation.
How to Apply for the OMT Scholarships 2025 / 2026
👉 Click here to apply for the Oppenheimer Memorial Trust (OMT) Scholarships 2025 / 2026
📄 Applicants must also download and read the official OMT Scholarship Application Guidelines (.pdf) before applying.
Required Supporting Documents (Compulsory)
- Certified copy of ID, passport, or residence permit
- Recent professional photograph
- Curriculum Vitae (maximum 3–4 pages)
- Full academic transcripts and certified degree certificates
- Proof of acceptance or registration at a university
- Budget plan (tuition, living costs, research costs)
- Motivational letter (maximum 500 words)
- Proof of income
- Three letters of recommendation (to be uploaded directly by referees)
(Note: The exact document requirements may vary slightly depending on the type of scholarship applied for.)
Closing Dates for OMT Scholarships
- 31 March 2025 → For studies commencing between July – December 2025
- 28 August 2025 → For studies commencing between January – June 2026
⚠️ Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants are encouraged to apply well before the deadline.
Conclusion
The Oppenheimer Memorial Trust Scholarships 2025 / 2026 provide a remarkable opportunity for outstanding students and academics to further their studies, conduct meaningful research, and contribute to the growth of knowledge both locally and internationally. With funding available for Master’s, Doctoral, Postdoctoral, and Sabbatical studies, these scholarships continue to play a vital role in strengthening South Africa’s academic and research landscape.