About the Scholarship
The Margaret McNamara Education Grants (MMEG) offer financial assistance to women from developing countries who are pursuing higher education to improve the lives of women and children in their communities. Grants range from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on the program and available funds.
Application Deadlines
US-Canada Program and Trinity Washington University Program: January 15, 2025, 11:59 PM EST
South Africa Program: September 14, 2025, 11:59 PM EST
Eligibility Criteria
1. General Requirements:
Must identify as a woman and be at least 25 years old at the application deadline.
Must be from a country on the MMEG eligibility list.
Should be enrolled in an accredited academic institution at the time of application.
Must plan to enroll for at least one academic semester after receiving the grant.
Must intend to graduate no later than three years after receiving the grant.
Cannot be related to staff or board members of the World Bank, IMF, IDB, or MMEG.
2. Specific Program Requirements:
US-Canada Program: For studies at eligible institutions in the US or Canada.
Trinity Washington University Program: Open to US citizens, green card holders, and undocumented residents.
South Africa Program: For studies at universities listed on the South Africa eligibility list.
Latin America and France Programs: Applicants must be attending specific institutions in these regions.
Fields of Study
All fields are eligible.
Benefits
Financial support of up to $15,000 for tuition, living expenses, and academic needs.
Empowerment to contribute to positive change in developing countries.
Selection Criteria
Academic performance and enrollment in an eligible university.
Personal story and commitment to improving lives in developing communities.
Adequacy of financial plans.
Quality and relevance of reference letters.
Required Documents
1. Photo identification (passport or government-issued ID).
2. Proof of enrollment (not an acceptance letter).
3. Official transcripts or academic reports.
4. Visa or study permit (for studies outside the applicant’s home country).
5. Personal story linking studies, experiences, and future plans to improving lives in developing countries.
6. Financial estimate (expenses and funding strategies).
7. Thesis summary (if applicable).
8. Two reference letters (one from a faculty member and one from a non-family individual).
Application Process
1. Visit the MMEG Website and select the appropriate program.
2. Complete the online application form via the Embark platform.
3. Upload all required documents.
4. Submit referees’ email addresses for reference letters.
5. Submit the completed application before the specified deadline.
Eligible Countries
Applicants must be from countries listed in the MMEG country eligibility list. Specific exceptions apply to some programs, such as the Trinity Washington University Program.
For more information and to apply, visit: MMEG Official Website.
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