Bursaries

Bursaries in South Africa 2026 — Find Free Funding for Your Studies

A bursary is money for your studies that you do not have to pay back. If you qualify — and many more South Africans qualify than realise it — a bursary can be the difference between studying and not studying.

This page lists every type of bursary available in South Africa, who qualifies, and how to apply.

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What is a Bursary?

A bursary is financial assistance for tertiary education that does not need to be repaid — unlike a student loan. Bursaries are offered by government, corporations, SETAs, and private foundations.

Read our Complete Guide to Bursaries in South Africa →

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Types of Bursaries Available

Government Bursaries

• NSFAS — for all qualifying public university and TVET students
• Funza Lushaka — for education students who want to teach
• Department of Health Bursaries — for health science students
• SETA Bursaries — sector-specific funding

Corporate Bursaries

• Eskom Engineering Bursary
• Sasol Bursary
• Anglo American Bursary
• Standard Bank Bursary
• Absa Bursary
• MTN Bursary

Foundation Bursaries

• Allan Gray Orbis Foundation
• Mastercard Foundation Scholars Programme
• Canon Collins Trust

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How to Apply for a Bursary

1. Check your eligibility — income, field of study, academic performance
2. Gather your documents — ID, matric certificate, proof of income
3. Write a strong motivation letter
4. Apply before the deadline
5. Apply to multiple bursaries simultaneously

Read the Step-by-Step Bursary Application Guide →

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Current Bursary Deadlines

Most bursary applications open between April and October each year for the following academic year. Subscribe to our alerts to never miss a deadline.

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