South African Bursaries Open for 2026
Great news for all learners, students, and future professionals in South Africa – bursary applications for the 2026 academic year are officially open! This is your opportunity to get funding that could help you study stress-free.
At this time of year, many students begin worrying about how they are going to afford tuition, textbooks, transport, and accommodation. But the good news is, hundreds of companies, government departments, and private institutions are offering bursaries to eligible South Africans who want to further their education in 2026.
Wondering when to start applying for bursaries for the 2026 academic year? You can start applying for bursaries for the 2026 academic from April 2025. It is important to applying right away because the deadline of some of the bursaries is June 2025.
What Is a Bursary
A bursary is financial assistance given to students who cannot afford to pay for their studies. Unlike a loan, a bursary does not always need to be paid back – although some bursaries require recipients to “work back” the value of the bursary at the company after graduation.
South African bursaries usually cover:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Prescribed textbooks
- Meals
- Transport
- Monthly stipend
- Laptop
- Mentorship
Applying for a bursary is a smart move especially if you're determined to study but don’t have the funds to do so. There’s no shame in applying for assistance. In fact, thousands of successful professionals today got their start thanks to bursary support.
Who Can Apply for Bursaries in 2026?
While every bursary has its own unique requirements, many are open to:
- Matric learners (Grade 12) applying for 2026 university or college admission
- Current university or college students in need of financial support
- TVET college students in technical or vocational fields
- Postgraduate students, including Honours, Master’s, or PhD candidates
Here’s a general idea of what bursary providers are looking for:
- Strong academic performance (especially in subjects related to your field of study)
- Proof of financial need
- South African citizenship
- Acceptance or provisional acceptance at a public institution (university/college)
- A passion for your chosen field and a drive to succeed
- Some bursaries are also targeted toward specific groups, such as:
- Previously disadvantaged students
- Rural learners
- Female students in STEM fields
- Students living with disabilities
South African Bursaries Open for 2026 Academic Year
We are posting regular updates about open bursaries for 2026, tips on how to apply, and reminders about closing dates. Make sure to bookmark our website or visit this page regularly for new listed bursaries open for 2026.
Here are the South African Bursaries Open for the 2026 Academic Year:
Vhembe District Municipality Bursary - Closing Date: 23 January 2026
CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary Scheme - Closing Date: 30 January 2026
African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) Bursary - Closing Date: 30 January 2026
Lephalale Municipality Bursary - Closing Date: 30 January 2026
SANAS Bursary - Closing Date: 30 January 2026
SASSETA Bursary - Closing Date: 30 January 2026
KN Inzuzo Trust Bursary - Closing Date: 31 January 2026
Cape Gate Erwin Robert Balde Bursary - Closing Date: 31 January 2026
SAFRIPOL Community Bursary - Closing Date: 31 January 2026
SPU Postgraduate Merit Bursary Award - Closing Date: 28 February 2026
GCRA 2026 Bursary - Closing Date: 28 February 2026
TTI Bursary (Applications Accepted throughout the year)
Career Wise Bursaries (Applications Accepted throughout the year)
BBD Bursary (Applications Accepted throughout the year)
MINDS Scholarship (Applications Accepted throughout the year)
Popular Fields with Available Bursaries for 2026
South Africa is focusing on building skills in key sectors. That means many bursaries are available in the following areas:
- Engineering
- Accounting & Finance
- Teaching & Education
- Information Technology & Computer Science
- Nursing & Medicine
- Agriculture
- Environmental Science
- Law
- Social Work
- Art, Design & Media
2026 South African Bursaries - Online Application Guide
Here's what to expect when applying for a bursary online:
1. Personal Details
You will be required to fill in your personal details such as your;
- Full Name
- ID Number
- Date of Birth
- Gender
- Home Address
- Email Address
- Phone Number
Tip: Double-check your contact details – this is how they’ll reach you if you’re shortlisted.
2. Academic Information
This section assesses your academic performance and history. You will usually be asked to provide:
- Name of Current or Last School/Institution
- Grade or Level of Study
- Subjects Taken and Marks Obtained
- Student Number
- Achievements or Awards (if applicable)
Tip: Ensure your uploaded results are certified and readable.
3. Course Information
This section is about your future plans and field of study. Expect to answer:
- Name of Course or Qualification
- Institution Name
- Study Duration
- Current Year of Study (if already enrolled)
- Student Status
Ensure your chosen course aligns with the bursary’s supported fields of study.
4. Financial Information
Used to determine financial need. You will be asked:
- Combined Household Income
- Employment Status of Parents/Guardians
- Number of Dependents in the Household
- Social Grant Support
- Living Conditions
Tip: You will need to upload documents like payslips, affidavits, or proof of SASSA grants.
5. Motivation (Short Essay or Paragraph)
This is one of the most important sections. You will be asked to explain:
- Why you’re applying for the bursary
- What motivates you to pursue your chosen field of study
- Your long-term career goals
- How the bursary will help you achieve those goals
- Any personal challenges you have overcome
Tip: Keep it personal, sincere, and focused. Use around 150–300 words unless told otherwise.
Tips to Apply Successfully For Bursaries in South Africa
Want to increase your chances of getting a bursary in 2026? Here are some tried-and-tested tips:
- Many bursaries close applications around November 2025. Ensure that you confirm closing date of your desired bursary so that you can submit your application on time.
- Don’t rely on just one bursary therefore apply to as many as you qualify for to increase your chances of securing funding for your studies in 2026
- Each bursary has different eligibility criteria and required documents. Ensure you meet requirements of each and every bursary you apply for.
- Most bursaries require a short letter explaining why you deserve funding. Be honest, show passion, and let your personality shine. Remember to tailor the motivational letter based on each bursary.
- Get your documents ready by certifying them. Do not submit documents that are old. Your certified documents should not be older than 3 months.
- Keep Copies of Everything. Save both hard and digital copies of your applications in case you need to resend or follow up.
- Always look up for feedback from the bursary providers. If you receive a feedback that you do not like, give up continue to apply to other available bursaries in South Africa for 2026.
Final Thoughts: Bursaries Can Change Your Life
Education opens doors – and bursaries unlock access to that education.
If you are a South African student dreaming of becoming a doctor, engineer, accountant, teacher, or any other professional, don’t let finances hold you back. Start applying for bursaries now. There is support available, but you have to be proactive and reach out for it.
Thousands of students receive bursaries every year and go on to graduate debt-free, gain work experience through “work-back” contracts, and become leaders in their industries.
Let’s make 2026 the year your dreams take flight – start applying now!
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