Finding Bursaries

When looking for bursaries in South Africa, consider the following tips:

• Research online to find bursary programs offered by government departments, non-profit organizations, and private companies.
• Contact universities and colleges directly to inquire about bursary opportunities.
• Check with your school’s financial aid department for information on bursaries available specifically for students at your institution.
• Use bursary search engines and databases to find relevant opportunities.

Applying for Bursaries

When applying for bursaries in South Africa, remember the following:

• Read the eligibility criteria carefully to ensure you meet all requirements before applying.
• Prepare a strong application that highlights your academic achievements, extracurricular involvement, and financial need.
• Submit all required documents by the deadline to increase your chances of being considered for the bursary.
• Follow up with the bursary provider to inquire about the status of your application and any additional steps you may need to take.

🎓 Top 10 Popular Bursary & Financial Aid Programs in South Africa

1. NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme)

   • 🔹 Who it’s for: South African citizens from low-income households

   • 🔹 Covers: Tuition, accommodation, books, living allowance

   • 🔹 Applies to: Public universities and TVET colleges

   • 🔹 Website

2. Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme

   • 🔹 Who it’s for: Students studying to become teachers

   • 🔹 Covers: Full cost of study (tuition, accommodation, meals, books)

   • 🔹 Condition: Must teach at a public school after graduating

   • 🔹 Website

3. Department of Health Bursaries

   • 🔹 Who it’s for: Students studying medicine, nursing, and health sciences

   • 🔹 Covers: Tuition and living expenses

   • 🔹 Often managed provincially (e.g., Gauteng, KZN, etc.)

4. Thuthuka Bursary Fund (SAICA)

   • 🔹 Who it’s for: Black and coloured students pursuing Chartered Accountancy (CA(SA))

   • 🔹 Covers: Tuition, accommodation, books, stipend

   • 🔹 Must study at a SAICA-accredited university

   • 🔹 Website

5. Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) Bursary

   • 🔹 Who it’s for: Students in mining-related fields (engineering, metallurgy, geology, etc.)

   • 🔹 Covers: Tuition, accommodation, books, allowance

   • 🔹 Website

6. Sasol Bursary Scheme

   • 🔹 Who it’s for: STEM (science, tech, engineering, math) students

   • 🔹 Highly competitive; full coverage + internship opportunities

   • 🔹 Website

7. Shoprite Bursary Programme

   • 🔹 Who it’s for: Students in accounting, IT, supply chain, retail, logistics, etc.

   • 🔹 Includes vacation work & employment opportunities

   • 🔹 Website

8. Eskom Bursaries

   • 🔹 Who it’s for: Engineering, IT, and science students

   • 🔹 Offers: Full bursaries (academic merit or need-based)

   • 🔹 Website

9. Old Mutual Education Trust & Bursaries

   • 🔹 Who it’s for: Children of Old Mutual staff, plus general bursaries for finance and actuarial students

   • 🔹 Covers: Full academic costs and mentorship

   • 🔹 Website

10. Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship & Bursary

• 🔹 Who it’s for: High-achieving Grade 12 learners and first-year university students with entrepreneurial potential

• 🔹 Focus: Leadership & business studies

• 🔹 Website

University Bursary Information – Financial Aid Information for Universities and Colleges

🏛️ Traditional Universities

These focus on academic and theoretical degrees:

1. University of Cape Town (UCT) – Cape Town

2. University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) – Johannesburg

3. Stellenbosch University (SU) – Stellenbosch

4. University of Pretoria (UP) – Pretoria

5. University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) – Durban & Pietermaritzburg

6. University of Johannesburg (UJ) – Johannesburg

7. University of the Free State (UFS) – Bloemfontein

8. Rhodes University – Makhanda (Grahamstown)

9. North-West University (NWU) – Potchefstroom, Mahikeng, and Vanderbijlpark

10. University of Limpopo (UL) – Polokwane

11. University of Fort Hare (UFH) – Alice

12. University of the Western Cape (UWC) – Cape Town

13. University of Venda (Univen) – Thohoyandou

14. Walter Sisulu University (WSU) – Mthatha

15. University of Zululand (UniZulu) – KwaDlangezwa

🏫 Comprehensive Universities

These offer both academic and vocational (technical) programs:

1. University of South Africa (UNISA) – Nationwide, distance learning

2. University of Johannesburg (UJ) – Also listed above; merged with Rand Afrikaans University

3. Nelson Mandela University (NMU) – Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)

4. University of Venda (Univen) – Also comprehensive

5. University of Fort Hare (UFH) – Also comprehensive

6. University of Zululand (UniZulu) – Also comprehensive

7. Walter Sisulu University (WSU) – Also comprehensive

8. University of Mpumalanga (UMP) – Mbombela

9. Sol Plaatje University (SPU) – Kimberley

🛠️ Universities of Technology

These focus on vocational and practical training:

1. Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) – Pretoria

2. Durban University of Technology (DUT) – Durban

3. Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) – Cape Town

4. Vaal University of Technology (VUT) – Vanderbijlpark

5. Central University of Technology (CUT) – Bloemfontein

6. Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT) – Umlazi

FAQs

• How do I know if I am eligible for a bursary?

  Each bursary program has its own set of eligibility criteria. Read the guidelines carefully to determine if you qualify.

• Do I have to pay back a bursary?

  Most bursaries do not have to be repaid, but be sure to check the terms and conditions of the specific bursary you are applying for.

• Can I apply for multiple bursaries?

  Yes, you can apply for more than one bursary at a time to increase your chances of receiving financial support.

• What if I miss the bursary application deadline?

  If you miss the deadline for a bursary, consider other financial aid options such as scholarships, student loans, or part-time work.

• Are there bursaries specifically for students from disadvantaged backgrounds?

  Yes, there are bursaries available specifically for students from disadvantaged backgrounds. Check with bursary providers for more information.

Differences in South Africa

One notable difference in South Africa is the availability of bursaries specifically targeted at historically disadvantaged groups such as black South Africans, women, and individuals with disabilities. These bursaries aim to promote diversity and inclusion in education.