How to Find and Apply for Bursaries in South Africa

A bursary is funding for your studies that you do not have to repay in cash — although many come with conditions, such as maintaining good marks or working for the sponsor after you graduate.

Types of bursaries

• Company bursaries — offered by employers in fields where they need skills, such as engineering, accounting, mining and IT. These often include vacation work and a work-back agreement.
• Government bursaries — offered by departments and provinces for scarce-skills fields like teaching, health sciences and agriculture.
• Trust and foundation bursaries — offered by non-profits, often based on financial need and academic merit.
• NSFAS — the government’s student financial aid scheme for qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges.

When to apply

Many bursaries open between April and September for the following academic year. Start looking in Grade 11 and apply in Grade 12 using your Grade 11 or mid-year results.

Documents you usually need

1. Certified copy of your ID
2. Latest academic results
3. Proof of university or college application/acceptance
4. Proof of household income (for need-based bursaries)
5. A motivational letter

What is a work-back agreement?

Many company and government bursaries require you to work for the sponsor for a period after graduating — often one year for every year funded. Read the contract carefully before you sign.

Avoid scams

Legitimate bursaries do not ask you to pay an application fee. Be cautious of social-media posts that ask for payment or banking PINs.

Browse current bursaries or get bursary alerts.