The journey to higher education is an exciting one. You’ll be exposed to so many new and different ideas, people and perspectives. And the freedom of forming your own opinions about them. It’s a period filled of opportunities for personal and professional growth. But for many South African students, the financial burden of tertiary studies can feel overwhelming. Tuition fees, accommodation costs, and daily living expenses quickly add up — and for some, a bursary or scholarship may be the only pathway to achieving their academic dreams.
If this is your situation, take heart: there are many funding opportunities available, but knowing where to look, when to apply, and how to prepare is key. So we at Future SA have compiled a smart and practical guide to navigating your options in South Africa.
The Types of Bursaries Available
There’s no one-size-fits-all when it comes to bursaries. Here’s a breakdown of the major categories and what they offer:
1. Government-Funded Bursaries
These are designed to make tertiary education more accessible, particularly for students from low-income households.
• NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme): Offers full coverage for tuition, accommodation, transport, meals, and more. It’s available to qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges.
• DHET International Scholarships: Offers South Africans the chance to study abroad in countries like Germany, Ireland, South Korea, and the USA through Department of Higher Education and Training partnerships.
2. Prestigious International Scholarships
These are highly competitive and often include leadership development opportunities in addition to full funding.
• Mandela Rhodes Scholarship: Supports postgraduate students, while fostering leadership and entrepreneurship.
• Rhodes Scholarship (Oxford University): Offers full funding to study at Oxford University in the UK – one of the most prestigious global opportunities available to South Africans.
3. University-Specific Scholarships
Many South African universities offer their own merit-based or need-based scholarships.
• University of Cape Town (UCT): Offers a range of scholarships for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
• University of Johannesburg (UJ): Includes programmes such as the Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship, awarded to top-performing learners.
4. Corporate and Private BursariesMany companies invest in South Africa’s future by sponsoring students in specific fields.
• Nedbank Bursary Programme: This is for students pursuing careers in finance and related fields.
• IDC (Industrial Development Corporation) Bursary: Supports students in Engineering, Agriculture, and IT-related fields.
• Mediclinic/ER24 Bursaries: Available to those pursuing health sciences like
Nursing, Emergency Medical Care, and Pharmacy.
• Liberty Actuarial Science Bursary: Tailored for students in Actuarial Science with strong academic records.
5. Additional Resources and Bursary Portals
Several platforms exist to simplify the search for bursaries:
• SmartFunder: Helps students connect with funding options and bursaries.
• FundiConnect: Provides a comparison of bursaries, scholarships, and student loan options.
• ZA Bursaries: A comprehensive and regularly updated listing of current bursary opportunities in South Africa.
Apply early – and strategically
One of the biggest mistakes students make is leaving their applications to the last minute. Most bursaries have strict deadlines, and many close applications well before the academic year begins.
Tips:
• Start researching at least six to 12 months before your studies.
• Keep a calendar of application deadlines.
• Make sure you meet all the criteria before applying.
• Prepare required documents in advance (certified copy of your ID, copies of academic qualifications, motivational letters, references etc.).
Prepare a standout application
Competition for bursaries can be fierce, especially for prestigious or fully funded options.
Your application should be professional, clear, and convincing.
What to include:
• A compelling motivational letter explaining your goals, financial need, and why
you’re a strong candidate.
• Certified copies of your latest academic records.
• Letters of reference from teachers, principals, and/or community leaders.
• Proof of household income (if required).
Bonus tip: Tailor each application to the funder’s focus. For example, if a bursary supports
future engineers, highlight your passion for the field and any achievements that align with
that goal.
REMEMBER: A bursary can be life-changing — but you have to put in the work to find the right opportunities and apply with care. Don’t let financial limitations hold you back. With the right information, preparation, and timing, you can secure the funding you need to build the future you deserve. Start early. Stay organised. Believe in your potential.
