The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has officially opened applications for the Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship 2026, a prestigious international scholarship supporting high-achieving female graduates from Durban who wish to pursue full-time postgraduate studies overseas.
This scholarship offers successful candidates the opportunity to gain global academic exposure, develop advanced skills, and return to South Africa with international experience that contributes to national development.
Closing date: 13 March 2026
About the Scholarship Provider: University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
UKZN is one of South Africa’s leading public universities, known for its academic excellence, strong research output, and international partnerships. Through opportunities such as the Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship, UKZN supports talented graduates in accessing world-class postgraduate education abroad.
About the Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship 2026
The Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship is awarded to female graduates residing in Durban who intend to pursue postgraduate studies at international institutions.
Key Highlights:
- Open to any postgraduate field of study
- Supports overseas postgraduate education
- Focuses on academic excellence and leadership potential
- Encourages knowledge transfer back to South Africa
Duration and Funding
- Funding period: Up to 2 years
- Study level: Postgraduate
- Study location: Overseas (international universities)
QUICK LINKS:
Who Can Apply? (Eligibility Requirements)
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be female
- Be under 25 years old as at 1 January 2026
- Have resided in Durban for at least 3 years
- Be a high-achieving graduate
- Have completed a minimum two-year degree (preference given to five-year qualifications)
- Have been registered at a South African university for at least two years
- Intend to pursue full-time postgraduate studies overseas within 18 months of receiving the award
- Not be in receipt of any other scholarship, bursary, or paid appointment
⚠️ Failure to meet any requirement will result in disqualification.
Fields of Study Covered
- All postgraduate fields of study
There are no discipline restrictions, making this scholarship suitable for graduates in:
- Humanities and Social Sciences
- Science and Technology
- Commerce and Management
- Health Sciences
- Law
- Engineering
- Creative and Arts-related fields
How to Apply for the Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship 2026
Step 1: Download the Application Form
Download and complete the official application form:
Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship Application 2026 (.docx)
Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents
Applicants must submit clear copies of the following:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Full academic record
- Proof of contact with foreign host universities (including intended courses)
- Two (2) reference letters
- Motivational letter explaining why you are applying
- Full Curriculum Vitae (no certificates)
- Proof of residence in Durban
⚠️ Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Completed application forms and supporting documents must be submitted via email to the Financial Aid Advisor on your UKZN campus.
(Email addresses are provided in the application form.)
Closing Date
13 March 2026
Late applications will not be accepted.
Why This Scholarship Matters
The Emma Smith Overseas Scholarship provides:
- Access to international postgraduate education
- Exposure to global academic and research environments
- Leadership development opportunities for young women
- Skills and experience that benefit South Africa’s development
For high-performing female graduates from Durban, this scholarship offers a rare and valuable pathway to study abroad.
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Mbalizuke Nkosi
Mbalizuke Nkosi is the editorial voice behind YouthScope.co.za, a South African youth-focused platform dedicated to sharing opportunities, education updates, and career development information. The editorial team focuses on producing clear, reliable, and easy-to-understand content for students, job seekers, and young professionals.
With a strong interest in youth empowerment, skills development, and access to opportunities, Youth Admin curates and publishes content covering learnerships, internships, bursaries, and study guides across South Africa.
The aim of Mbalizuke Nkosi is to simplify important information and make it accessible to young people who are building their future careers.