Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship

Who can apply

• Be a South African citizen
• Be under 25 years of age as at 1 January 2026
• Be female
• Be a resident in Durban for at least 3 years
• Be a high-achieving graduate and have completed a minimum 2 year degree (preference will be given to 5 year qualifications), at any South African university
• Have been a registered student at a South African University for at least 2 years
• Wish to pursue full-time postgraduate studies overseas, within 18 months from the date of the award
• Not be receiving any other scholarship or bursary or any paid appointment

Documents you will need

• ID document (certified copy)
• Full Academic Record
• Proof of contact with any foreign host universities, including details such as foreign university courses you are interested in studying
• 2 reference letters
• Motivational letter stating why you are applying for this scholarship
• Proof of residence

Full bursary documents checklist

How to apply

1. Check the requirements

   Make sure you meet every requirement listed above. Applications that miss one are usually rejected automatically.

2. Prepare your documents

   Scan clear copies of everything the provider asks for, certified where required.

3. Apply through the official channel

   See the provider's official website for the application form.

   Download and complete the Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship Application 2026 (.docx)

4. Submit before the closing date

   Usually closes around March. Late applications are almost never accepted.

Applications for the current cycle have closed. This bursary usually opens again each year, so prepare your documents now and check back.

Genuine bursaries never charge an application fee. How to spot bursary scams

About Emma Smith Overseas

The scholarship is administered through the University of KwaZulu-Natal and honours the philanthropist Emma Smith.