For many South African students, accessing higher education is a life-changing opportunity — but the cost of tuition, textbooks, accommodation, and daily expenses can be prohibitive. Bursaries are one of the most powerful tools available to help bridge this gap. Unlike loans, bursaries do not need to be repaid, making them an essential form of financial support for students from low- to middle-income households.
This guide explores how bursaries work in South Africa, who is eligible, how to find them, how to apply successfully, and what to consider when choosing a funding route. Whether you’re finishing high school, already studying at university or college, or planning postgraduate study, understanding bursary options can transform your educational journey and future career prospects.
What Is a Bursary and How Is It Different from Other Funding?
A bursary is a financial award given to a student, typically based on financial need, academic performance, or a combination of both. The key difference between bursaries and other forms of financial support:
Bursary: No repayment required. Awarded based on need/criteria.
Scholarship: Usually merit-based (academic, sports, leadership). Also generally doesn’t need to be repaid.
Student Loan: Must be repaid with interest over time.
Many bursaries in South Africa also come with contract conditions — such as work commitments after graduation or academic performance requirements — so it’s important to understand the terms before accepting an award.
Who Offers Bursaries in South Africa?
1. Government Bursaries
South African government departments provide bursaries to students in key sectors such as:
Health Sciences (e.g., Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy)
Engineering and Built Environment
Education and Teaching
Agriculture and Environmental Sciences
Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics (STEM)
Examples include national bursary schemes from the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) and sector-specific bursaries.
2. Universities and TVET Colleges
Most public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges offer their own bursaries and financial aid packages. These may be based on:
Academic performance
Financial need
Specific faculties or fields of study
3. Corporate & Private Sector Bursaries
Many South African companies invest in education by offering bursaries to students, often with a focus on:
Fields relevant to their industry (e.g., engineering, accounting, IT)
Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) initiatives
Skills shortages in the country
Examples include bursary programmes from companies in mining, banking, telecommunications, and energy.
4. Non-Profit & Trust Bursaries
Various trusts and charitable organisations provide bursaries, sometimes with additional mentoring or support:
Community trusts
Professional associations
Foundations that support education access
These can be especially helpful for students who don’t qualify under major government schemes but still demonstrate strong need and potential.
How to Determine If You’re Eligible
Eligibility varies depending on the bursary provider, but common criteria include:
South African citizenship or permanent residency
Acceptance or registration at a recognised tertiary institution
(university or TVET college)Academic performance: a minimum level of achievement in school or prior qualifications
Financial need: often demonstrated through household income or socio-economic documentation
Specific field of study: some bursaries are limited to critical skills areas
Age and year of study restrictions: e.g., first-year students only, or postgraduates
Always read the bursary guidelines carefully — eligibility requirements are strictly enforced during the application review process.
Where to Find Bursaries in South Africa
Official Government & Education Sites
DHET Bursary Portal — central listing of government bursaries
NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) — covers eligible students at universities & TVET colleges
Provincial education department bursaries (varies by province)
University Financial Aid Pages
Each tertiary institution has a financial aid office with listings of available bursaries.
Corporate & Private Sector Listings
Many large companies advertise bursaries on their careers or corporate responsibility pages.
Bursary Database Platforms
There are dedicated bursary search websites that aggregate opportunities and send alerts when new ones open.
How to Prepare a Strong Bursary Application
Applying for a bursary is competitive — standing out requires preparation:
1. Gather Required Documents Early
Common documents include:
Certified ID copy
Most recent academic results
Proof of acceptance/registration at the institution
Proof of income/affidavit/financial statements
Motivation letter or personal statement
2. Write a Clear, Honest Personal Statement
Your motivation letter should explain:
Why do you need financial support
Your academic aspirations
Your career goals and how your studies link to them
How the bursary will make a difference
3. Meet Deadlines Without Exception
Late submissions are usually not accepted. Keep a calendar with reminders for deadlines and required updates.
4. Follow Instructions Carefully
Each bursary application will have specific requirements. Provide exactly what’s asked for — not less, and not unrelated additional documentation.
5. Prepare for Interviews
Some bursary providers may request an interview or additional assessment. Practice explaining your goals, strengths, and reasons for applying clearly and confidently.
Common Fields Where Bursaries Are Available
Although opportunities vary year by year, many bursaries focus on priority fields such as:
Engineering (civil, mechanical, electrical)
Health Sciences (medicine, nursing, radiography)
Education and Teaching
Agricultural Sciences
Information Technology & Computer Science
Business, Accounting & Finance
Environmental & Sustainability Sciences
These fields often align with critical skill shortages in the South African economy.
20 Tips for Securing Bursaries in South Africa, 10th January 2026
1. Start searching for bursaries early
Most bursary deadlines close months before the academic year begins.
Starting early gives you time to research multiple opportunities, gather documents, and avoid last-minute mistakes. Many students miss out simply because they begin searching too late.
2. Apply to more than one bursary
Never rely on a single bursary application.
Competition is high, and applying to multiple bursaries significantly increases your chances. Each application is an opportunity, and rejection from one does not determine your future.
3. Understand the difference between bursaries and loans
Bursaries do not require repayment, while loans usually do.
Always confirm the funding type before applying. Some bursaries may include work-back agreements, but they are still different from loans with interest.
4. Meet all eligibility requirements exactly
If you do not meet the criteria, your application will likely be rejected.
Check citizenship, age, field of study, academic level, and income limits carefully. Applying only where you qualify saves time and increases success.
5. Keep certified documents ready at all times
Missing or uncertified documents can disqualify your application instantly.
Prepare certified copies of your ID, academic results, proof of income, and acceptance letters so you can apply quickly when opportunities open.
6. Write a strong motivation letter
Your motivation letter explains your story beyond grades and documents.
Clearly explain your background, financial need, career goals, and how the bursary will help you succeed. A genuine, well-structured letter can set you apart.
7. Focus on bursaries linked to your field of study
Field-specific bursaries often have less competition.
Companies and government departments fund students in priority skills areas such as engineering, teaching, healthcare, IT, and agriculture.
8. Maintain strong academic performance
Many bursaries require minimum academic results to apply and to continue funding.
Consistent performance improves eligibility and shows commitment, even for need-based bursaries.
9. Apply even if your marks are not perfect
Not all bursaries are strictly merit-based.
Some bursaries focus more on financial need, leadership potential, or community involvement. Do not disqualify yourself before applying.
10. Track deadlines carefully
Late applications are usually rejected automatically.
Use a calendar or reminder system to track opening and closing dates, required documents, and submission methods.
11. Check university and TVET college financial aid offices
Institutions often offer internal bursaries not advertised elsewhere.
Visit your campus financial aid office regularly or check their website for faculty-specific and donor-funded opportunities.
12. Look beyond national bursaries
Provincial, municipal, and local bursaries are often overlooked.
Local government and community trusts may fund students from specific regions, giving you a competitive advantage.
13. Prepare for bursary interviews
Some bursaries require interviews or assessments.
Practice explaining your goals, strengths, and commitment clearly. Confidence and honesty matter as much as academic results.
14. Be honest about your financial situation
Providing false information can lead to rejection or future cancellation.
Transparency builds trust and ensures the bursary reaches students who genuinely need support.
15. Read the bursary contract carefully
Some bursaries include work-back or performance obligations.
Understand your responsibilities, including academic requirements and employment commitments after graduation.
16. Use bursary search platforms wisely
Bursary listing websites can help you discover new opportunities quickly.
Check them regularly, but always verify details from official sources before applying.
17. Ask for help with applications
Guidance from teachers, mentors, or financial aid officers can improve your application.
A second review can catch errors and strengthen your motivation letter.
18. Reapply if unsuccessful
Many students receive bursaries after multiple attempts.
Rejection is not failure—it is often part of the process. Improve your application and try again the next cycle.
19. Keep records of all applications
Tracking applications helps with follow-ups and future planning.
Maintain a simple list of bursaries applied for, dates, contacts, and outcomes.
20. Stay persistent and hopeful
Securing a bursary is often a journey, not a single step.
Persistence, preparation, and belief in your goals can open doors. Many successful graduates once faced rejection before receiving support.
What Happens After You Are Awarded a Bursary
Once awarded, bursaries may require:
Signing a contract (especially with corporate or government bursaries)
Maintaining a minimum academic performance
Reporting academic progress annually
Occasionally, a work obligation after graduation (in some corporate or government schemes)
Make sure you understand your obligations before accepting any bursary.
General Bursaries & Scholarship Listings
List of available bursaries in South Africa (apply for 2025‑2026) — a comprehensive list of many bursaries available throughout the year.
Individual Scholarship / Bursary Programmes
Old Mutual Education Trust bursary application (download & apply) — part of the bursary programmes listed online.
National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) — the biggest public funding programme for eligible South African learners (apply via the NSFAS official portal).
University scholarships & application portals (Wits, UJ, UWC, UP and others offer merit & need-based funding) — apply through respective university scholarship pages.
Other Scholarship Opportunities
📊 South African Reserve Bank Data Science Scholarship — full scholarship for postgraduate studies in data science/ML (apply via bursary portal). South African Reserve Bank
Tips before you apply
Most bursary/scholarship deadlines fall between May and December for the next academic year.
You often need supporting documents like ID, results, acceptance letters, and motivational letters.
Conclusion
For South African students, bursaries can unlock access to tertiary education, reduce financial stress, and pave the way to meaningful careers. By understanding the different types of bursaries, eligibility criteria, application strategies, and tips for success, you position yourself to make the most of available opportunities.
Whether you’re passionate about science, education, health, business, or technology, bursary opportunities are waiting — but preparation, persistence, and proactive planning are key. Use this guide as both a roadmap and a toolbox to strengthen your applications and navigate the bursary system with confidence. With determination and the right support, your educational dreams can become a reality.
