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Find a Bursary That Fits Your Studies

South Africa has hundreds of bursary programmes available every year. Many go unclaimed simply because students do not know where to look. Below are verified bursaries currently open for applications.

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Important: JobSA360 does not process bursary applications. All applications must be submitted directly to the bursary provider using the official links below. Beware of scammers who charge fees to apply for bursaries — legitimate bursaries are always free to apply for.

Eskom
Eskom STEM Bursary Programme 2025
Eskom offers bursaries to South African students pursuing qualifications in engineering, science, and technology fields. Successful recipients may be considered for employment at Eskom after graduation.
🎓Who qualifies: South African citizens, Grade 12 or current university students with 60%+ in Maths & Science
📚Fields: Electrical, Mechanical, Civil Engineering, Physics, Chemistry
💰Covers: Full tuition, registration fees, and monthly living allowance
Closes: 31 August 2025
Apply at Eskom ↗
Department of Agriculture
DALRRD Bursary Programme – Agricultural Sciences
The Department of Agriculture, Land Reform and Rural Development offers bursaries to students studying agriculture and related fields. Priority is given to students from rural communities and previously disadvantaged backgrounds.
🎓Who qualifies: South African citizens with Matric, preferably with Agriculture or Life Sciences
📚Fields: Agriculture, Food Science, Environmental Management, Veterinary Science
💰Covers: Tuition, accommodation, books and a monthly stipend
Closes: 30 June 2025
Apply at DALRRD ↗
Sasol
Sasol Bursary – Engineering & Science
Sasol offers bursaries to high-achieving South African students in engineering and science disciplines. Students living near Sasol operations in Secunda, Sasolburg, and Gauteng are particularly encouraged to apply.
🎓Who qualifies: Matric with distinctions in Maths and Physical Science; or current students
📚Fields: Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical Engineering, Chemistry, Process Engineering
💰Covers: Full tuition, accommodation, books, and monthly allowance
Closes: 31 July 2025
Apply at Sasol ↗
Department of Health
National Department of Health Bursary – Health Sciences
The National Department of Health funds students in scarce health profession fields. Recipients are required to complete a period of community service in a public health facility after qualifying.
🎓Who qualifies: South African citizens currently enrolled or applying for a health sciences degree
📚Fields: Medicine, Pharmacy, Dentistry, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Nursing
💰Covers: Tuition, accommodation, and a study allowance
Closes: 30 September 2025
Apply at Dept of Health ↗
Transnet
Transnet Bursary – Engineering & Logistics
Transnet provides bursaries to support the development of engineering and logistics talent in South Africa. The bursary may include vacation work and the possibility of employment at Transnet after completion.
🎓Who qualifies: South African citizens, Grade 12 with Maths and Physical Science (60%+)
📚Fields: Mechanical, Civil, Electrical Engineering, Supply Chain, Logistics
💰Covers: Full tuition, books, accommodation, and a study allowance
Closes: 31 August 2025
Apply at Transnet ↗
merSETA
merSETA Bursary – Manufacturing & Engineering Sector
The Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services SETA funds students from the manufacturing sector. This bursary targets unemployed youth who are South African citizens.
🎓Who qualifies: South African citizens aged 18–35, unemployed, with Grade 12
📚Fields: Engineering, Manufacturing, Motor Industry, Plastics
💰Covers: Tuition, registration, and applicable study materials
Closes: 30 June 2025
Apply at merSETA ↗
Old Mutual
Old Mutual Bursary – Finance & Actuarial Science
Old Mutual offers financial support to talented students pursuing careers in finance, actuarial science, and business. The bursary includes mentorship and vacation work opportunities.
🎓Who qualifies: South African citizens with strong Maths results entering or studying at university
📚Fields: Actuarial Science, Finance, Accounting, Data Science, Risk Management
💰Covers: Tuition, books, and living allowance
Closes: 30 September 2025
Apply at Old Mutual ↗

Application Guide

How to Apply for a Bursary in South Africa

Applying for a bursary takes preparation. Follow these steps to give yourself the best chance of success.

1

Check the Requirements

Read the full requirements carefully before applying. Each bursary has specific academic, financial, and citizenship criteria.

2

Gather Your Documents

You will typically need certified copies of your ID, latest school or university results, proof of household income, and a motivation letter.

3

Write a Strong Motivation Letter

Your motivation letter should explain why you are applying, what you plan to do with your qualification, and why you deserve the bursary.

4

Apply Before the Deadline

Late applications are not accepted. Submit your application at least a week before the closing date in case of technical issues.

5

Apply to Multiple Bursaries

Do not rely on a single application. Apply to as many bursaries as you qualify for to improve your chances of receiving funding.

6

Follow Up Politely

If you do not hear back within four to six weeks of the closing date, it is appropriate to contact the bursary administrator to confirm receipt.

Common Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Bursaries

Here are honest answers to the questions we hear most from South African students.

A bursary is money given to you for your studies that you do not have to repay, as long as you meet the conditions (usually completing your qualification and working for the company for a set period). A student loan must be repaid after you graduate, with interest. Always prefer a bursary over a loan if you qualify.
In most cases, no. NSFAS requires you to declare any other funding you receive, and receiving a full bursary alongside NSFAS may disqualify you from NSFAS or reduce your award. Always disclose all funding sources when you apply and contact NSFAS directly for guidance in your specific situation.
Most university-level bursaries require a matric certificate. However, some TVET college bursaries and learnerships are available to students without matric. NSFAS, for example, covers TVET college programmes that can be entered with a Grade 9 certificate.
Some bursaries are specifically for working professionals seeking to further their education. Many SETA bursaries cover part-time study for employed individuals in the relevant sector. Check with the SETA that covers your industry for details.
No. This is a scam. Legitimate bursaries are free to apply for and information about them is publicly available. Never pay anyone to help you access a bursary application, to "process" your application, or to give you a list of bursaries. Report such activity to the South African Police Service.

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