Last updated on January 11, 2026
A scholarship is financial support given to students so they can study without repaying the money. It can cover tuition, books, or living costs, depending on the program. Across South Africa, scholarships open doors that money would normally keep closed.
Many students try part-time jobs, others borrow, and some simply stop studying because fees are too high. It feels unfair. You see bright minds losing chances. That is why scholarships matter — they reduce stress, bring hope, and keep education possible.
Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at twenty or eighty. Anyone who keeps learning stays young.
Quick Glance
• Scholarship: Financial support to help students study — not repaid
• Who gives it: Governments, universities, companies, NGOs, individuals
• Types: Merit-based, need-based, athletic, talent, program-specific
• Covers: Tuition, fees, books — sometimes accommodation and allowances
• Goal: Reduce financial pressure so students can focus on education
Table of Contents
What Is a Scholarship?
Sometimes people ask what is a scholarship and expect a neat answer. The truth is, it is more than money for school. A scholarship means someone sees your effort and wants to help you keep learning. You do not pay it back like a loan. You just keep studying and make the most of that chance. The real scholarship meaning is about belief — belief that a student’s hard work and potential are worth investing in.
In South Africa, a lot of students confuse scholarships with bursaries. The difference between a bursary and a scholarship is quite simple. A bursary helps when a family cannot afford fees at all. A scholarship often comes as a reward for good grades, sports, or another skill. Some cover all the costs, others only part of them, but each one makes a real difference.
When people discuss what a scholarship is, they are generally referring to the undying hope that a door will open for those who did not give up on the first try.
How Scholarships Work in South Africa
In South Africa, scholarships come from many places. Some are offered by big universities, others by local groups or private companies that want to help young people finish school. You’ll also find support from national bodies like the National Research Foundation (NRF). Each one has a goal — to give bright students a fair shot, no matter their background.
When the scholarship gets approved, the sponsor usually pays the university directly. Sometimes, they send a part for books, meals, or housing. The point is simple: help the student study without money getting in the way. That’s really how scholarships work here.
To keep it, a student must stay focused. Marks matter. Attendance too. If performance drops, the help can stop. It’s not meant to scare anyone — just to remind that effort counts.
Understanding what a scholarship is in South Africa gives students hope. It shows that there are real chances for anyone willing to keep trying.
Types of Scholarships
There isn’t just one kind of scholarship in South Africa. Each has its own reason for existing, and knowing the difference helps students choose better.
Merit-Based
These go to students who do really well in school or university. Strong marks, leadership work, or special talent can open that door. Places such as the University of Cape Town and Stellenbosch University often run these awards for top achievers.
Need-Based
This one steps in when fees become unmanageable. It supports students from low-income families so they can keep studying without extra debt.
Sports and Creative
Athletes, artists, or musicians sometimes earn funding for their skills. The idea is to help them grow in both talent and study.
Public and Corporate
Government departments and big companies offer scholarships in fields such as mining engineering, science, and health. It’s how they build future professionals.
Each scholarship has a purpose: to make education easily available to those who really want to learn from the heart.
Benefits of Scholarships for Students
Without money, you become helpless. When a scholarship arrives, that pressure finally lifts. It is not just a payment; it feels like a breath of air after holding it for too long.
Financial Relief
Fees, books, rent — those things stop being a daily fear. Students can sleep, show up, and learn without counting what’s left in their account.
Motivation
Getting a scholarship means someone noticed the effort. That single moment can light a spark stronger than any lecture.
Broader Experience
Some awards let students travel or join projects far from home. Seeing how people work elsewhere reshapes how they think about studying and working.
Fair Access
For many in South Africa, scholarships keep doors open that money once closed. They make learning a little more equal, one student at a time.
Scholarship Eligibility Criteria
Scholarships don’t all use the same checklist, but most look for five simple things.
Grades
Marks matter. Sponsors want proof that a student works hard and can finish what they start. Progress counts as much as perfect scores.
Need
Some awards focus on families who can’t cover fees. Clear, honest income details help reviewers make fair decisions.
Citizenship
Most scholarships in South Africa go to local citizens or permanent residents. A few extend to students from neighboring countries.
Course
Engineering, science, and teaching often receive priority because the country needs skilled workers in those fields.
Character
Community service or leadership shows maturity. It tells funders that the student gives back.
Meeting these scholarship eligibility requirements shows readiness and respect for the opportunity.
Examples of Scholarships in South Africa
South Africa has many places that give real help to students. Below are some of the names learners most often hear when they start looking for support.
NSFAS
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme is the biggest. It helps students from low-income homes to study at public universities and TVET colleges. It usually pays tuition, accommodation, and study materials.
Allan Gray Orbis Foundation
This one looks for learners who show leadership and strong results. It helps them grow as entrepreneurs while finishing school or university.
SANRAL
The South African National Roads Agency supports high school learners who excel in maths and science. It guides them toward a career in civil engineering later on.
Moshal Program
Moshal helps determined students from difficult backgrounds. It supports degrees in fields such as IT, accounting, and health sciences.
UNICAF
UNICAF works with international universities and offers partial funding for online degrees. It suits students who study while working.
These scholarships in South Africa remind students that effort still counts. The help is real and within reach for anyone ready to keep trying.
Some institutions also support students through internal scholarships and sports funding, and learners still manage classes through portals like zetech elearning.zetech.ac.ke for e-learning access.
How to Apply for a Scholarship
Start early. That’s the best advice. Don’t wait until you see others applying — you’ll miss it.
Step 1: Know Where to Look
Use official sites first. The Department of Higher Education lists real bursaries and scholarships each year. Your college or university usually shares opportunities too — sometimes on notice boards, sometimes online.
Step 2: Read Slowly
Most people just skim. That’s why they miss things. Every scholarship has small rules — some want specific subjects, others need a family income form.
Step 3: Keep Your Documents Ready
ID copy. School results. Reference letters. Some ask for proof of income. Keep everything scanned and named properly. Blurry uploads? They get ignored.
Step 4: Apply Before the Deadline
Don’t wait till the last day. Submitting early shows you’re serious. Keep the confirmation email or SMS — always.
Step 5: Follow Up
If it’s been a while and you’ve heard nothing, send a polite email. One follow-up is fine. No need to spam.
Getting a scholarship is about timing, preparation, and careful reading of the details. That’s it.
If you’re planning to take the next step in Kenya, read our detailed guide on how to apply for a government scholarship in Kenya to understand the full process from eligibility to final submission.
The great aim of education is not knowledge but action.
Bursary vs Scholarship – Key Difference
| Key Difference | Scholarship | Bursary |
| Main Purpose | Rewards performance (like strong marks or special skills) | Supports students who need financial help |
| Based On | Academic results, sport, leadership, or talent | Financial need first, sometimes with grade or course requirements |
| Payback Required? | No. It’s a reward — you don’t repay it | Sometimes. Some bursaries ask you to work for the sponsor after you finish |
| Who Offers It? | Universities, private companies, NGOs | Government departments, companies, and SETAs |
| How It’s Awarded | Often competitive — you apply and get picked if you stand out | Based on household income and proof of need |
| Common Example | Allan Gray Orbis Foundation, SANRAL Scholarship | NSFAS, Funza Lushaka, Department of Health Bursaries |
| Main Focus | Recognizing effort or talent | Making education possible when money is the main barrier |
In short, scholarships reward achievement, while bursaries cover need — both help you study, but the reason behind them is different.
Conclusion
Not every student gets the same start — but a scholarship can help close that gap. It gives you a chance to learn without worrying about daily fees.
If you’ve made it this far, take it seriously. Look up what’s out there, get your papers in order, and apply early.
You don’t need to be perfect. You just need to be ready when the door opens.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a scholarship in South Africa?
It’s money to help students study, but not like a loan. You don’t pay it back. Most of the time, it’s given because of good results, talent, or personal need. In South Africa, some scholarships come from universities, others from companies or the government. If you’re in school or already studying, and you meet the requirements, you can apply. It’s a way for students who show potential to carry on learning — without worrying about how to pay for it all.
What are the types of scholarships?
There’s not just one kind. Some are given for top marks in school. Others are for students with limited income. You also get scholarships for sport or creative ability. A few are linked to certain degrees, like engineering or teaching. The important thing is to check what each one wants — marks, documents, maybe a scholarship essay — and whether it fits your background. Once you know that, you can choose where to apply.
Why are scholarships important?
Not everyone can afford university or college fees. A scholarship removes that stress. You don’t have to work late shifts or take loans. It lets you focus on your books and classes. More than that, it tells you someone noticed your effort. It’s a kind of reward — and it opens the door for students who might otherwise have to stop studying too early. For many, it’s the reason they get to graduate.
How can I apply for a scholarship?
First, find one that matches your marks or needs. Look on official websites — like DHET — or ask at your school or university. Read the instructions twice. Gather your documents: ID, school results, and maybe proof of income. Make sure they’re clear, not blurry. Then apply before the deadline. That part matters. If you don’t hear anything after a few weeks, send a brief follow-up message. That shows you are serious.
What is the difference between a bursary and a scholarship?
A scholarship is usually a reward. You get it for doing well or showing promise. A bursary is more about financial need. Sometimes, if you take a bursary, you agree to work for the organization that gave it to you once you finish studying. With a scholarship, there’s no payback. That’s the main difference. Both help students, but the reasons and rules behind them differ.
Varsha Asrani is a lecturer and education writer with experience as Visiting Faculty at AUPP and ATMC College, and as a Lecturer with TalentEdge and UpGrad. She is the Founder of the Asrani Institute of Education and Counselling. Varsha specializes in scholarships, e-learning, and career guidance for African students and professionals, and regularly visits Africa to gather first-hand insights that shape her research and articles.
