Latest Bursaries in South Africa for 2026

Find government, company, university, TVET, undergraduate and postgraduate bursaries for South African students. Search current opportunities and check their application closing dates.

⚠️ Verify Every Bursary Before Applying

AccessSA is an independent information platform. Always confirm eligibility requirements, closing dates and application instructions through the official bursary provider before submitting personal information.

Bursary and Student-Funding Opportunities

Explore different funding categories available to students studying in South Africa.

πŸ› Government Bursaries

Explore bursaries offered by South African government departments, municipalities and public institutions.

View Bursaries

🏫 University Bursaries

Find funding opportunities available through universities and higher-education institutions.

Find University Funding

πŸ”§ TVET College Bursaries

Discover funding opportunities available to qualifying TVET college students.

Find TVET Funding

πŸŽ“ Undergraduate Bursaries

Find funding opportunities for students pursuing undergraduate qualifications.

View Undergraduate Funding

πŸ“š Postgraduate Bursaries

Explore bursaries for honours, master’s and doctoral studies.

View Postgraduate Funding

🏒 Company Bursaries

Find bursaries offered by companies and private organisations across South Africa.

Find Company Bursaries

Search Bursaries in South Africa

Search by bursary name, organisation, field of study, study level or province.

Current Bursaries and Closing Dates

Browse active student-funding opportunities. Bursaries whose closing dates have passed are automatically removed from this list.

Loading bursary opportunities...

How to Apply for a Bursary

  1. Read the complete bursary advertisement.
  2. Confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements.
  3. Check which fields and study levels are funded.
  4. Prepare all the required supporting documents.
  5. Complete the official application form carefully.
  6. Submit the application before the closing date.
  7. Keep confirmation and copies of your application.

Documents You May Need

Requirements differ between bursary providers, but applicants may be asked to provide:

  • A certified copy of a South African identity document.
  • Recent academic results or school reports.
  • Proof of admission, application or registration.
  • Proof of household income.
  • A curriculum vitae.
  • A motivation letter.
  • Proof of residence where required.
  • Any additional documents requested by the provider.

Understanding Bursary Requirements

Some bursaries are based on financial need, while others focus on academic results, a particular field of study, residence in a specific province or a commitment to work for the funder after graduation.

Read all conditions carefully before applying. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee that an applicant will receive funding.

Avoid Bursary Scams

  • Verify the bursary provider through official sources.
  • Be careful of promises of guaranteed funding.
  • Never share passwords or banking PINs.
  • Confirm unexpected application fees before paying.
  • Do not pay someone to submit an application for you.
  • Check that the application website belongs to the provider.

Bursaries in South Africa FAQs

Where can I find bursaries in South Africa?

AccessSA lists student-funding opportunities offered by government departments, companies, universities, colleges and other organisations when available.

What documents are required for a bursary application?

You may need an identity document, academic results, proof of admission or registration, proof of household income, a CV and a motivation letter. Requirements differ between providers.

Do I have to pay to apply for a bursary?

Legitimate bursary applications are generally free. Be cautious of anyone demanding payment to guarantee funding, selection or approval.

Can TVET college students apply for bursaries?

Yes. Some bursary and financial-aid programmes are available to qualifying TVET college students.

Can Grade 12 learners apply for bursaries?

Yes. Some bursaries allow Grade 12 learners to apply before entering university or college. Applicants must check the provider’s requirements.

What happens if I miss the closing date?

Most providers will not accept late applications. Submit applications early and check whether the provider announces another funding period.