Bursaries in South Africa remain one of the most important ways students fund their studies without taking on debt. For the 2026 academic year, bursaries are offered by government departments, SETAs, private companies, and foundations across key fields such as teaching, engineering, finance, and technical skills.
This guide explains how bursaries work in South Africa, who can apply, what types of bursaries are available for 2026, and how students can identify legitimate opportunities without confusion.
Quick Glance: Bursaries in South Africa (2026)
- What bursaries are: Study funding that usually does not require repayment
- Who offers them: Government, SETAs, state entities, companies, and foundations
- Who can apply: High school learners, university students, TVET students, and postgraduates
- What they cover: Tuition, accommodation or transport, books, and limited living support
- When to apply: Most open from mid-2025 and close between October and March
- Key tip: Apply early and meet each bursary’s specific eligibility rules
Table of Contents
What Is a Bursary in South Africa?
A bursary is a form of financial assistance awarded to students to help cover study-related costs such as tuition, accommodation, books, and sometimes basic living expenses. Unlike loans, bursaries generally do not require cash repayment, although some come with conditions such as a work-back or service obligation.
In South Africa, bursaries are commonly funded by:
- Government departments
- Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs)
- State-owned enterprises
- Private companies
- Foundations and trusts
Who Can Apply for Bursaries in South Africa?
Bursaries are available to different groups of students, depending on the programme and funder.
Applicants may include:
- High school learners (Grade 11 or Grade 12)
- Undergraduate university students
- TVET college students
- Postgraduate students
- Students studying at public universities and, in some cases, private institutions
Eligibility is usually based on a combination of academic performance, field of study, and financial need, although some bursaries focus mainly on skills shortages rather than income.
Types of Bursaries Available in South Africa
Government and Public Sector Bursaries
These bursaries are funded by government departments and public entities and often focus on national skills shortages.
Examples include teaching, engineering, health sciences, and public infrastructure fields. Some government bursaries require graduates to work in the public sector after completing their studies.
SETA Bursaries
Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) fund bursaries linked to specific industries, such as manufacturing, finance, construction, and transport.
SETA bursaries are usually aimed at:
- Scarce and critical skills
- TVET and technical qualifications
- Industry-aligned training
Corporate and Private Company Bursaries
Many private companies fund bursaries to build future talent in their industries. These bursaries are often competitive and may include mentorship or workplace exposure.
Fields commonly supported include:
- Accounting and finance
- Engineering
- Information technology
- Mining and energy
- Business-related studies
Foundation and Trust Bursaries
Foundations and trusts offer bursaries focused on social development, leadership, or educational access. Some are merit-based, while others prioritise disadvantaged backgrounds.
Major Bursary Programmes in South Africa (2026)
The following bursary programmes are among the most searched and recognised in South Africa for the 2026 academic year:
- Funza Lushaka Bursary – Teaching-focused government bursary
- SETA Bursaries – Industry-based technical and skills bursaries
- TETA Bursary – Transport and logistics sector funding
- Investec Bursary – Finance, commerce, and specialist fields
- SANRAL Scholarship – Engineering and infrastructure-related studies
- ISFAP Bursary – Income-based funding for selected fields
These programmes have different eligibility rules, funding limits, and obligations, so applicants should always review each bursary separately.
What Do Bursaries Usually Cover?
Most bursaries in South Africa cover essential academic costs, but the exact benefits differ by programme.
Common coverage includes:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation or transport support
- Prescribed textbooks and learning materials
- Limited living or meal support
Some bursaries are fully comprehensive, while others are partially funded or capped.
How to Apply for a Bursary in South Africa (2026)
Although each bursary has its own process, most applications follow a similar pattern:
- Confirm that your field of study is funded
- Apply for admission at a recognised institution
- Gather required documents (ID, academic records, proof of registration)
- Complete the bursary application (online or manual)
- Submit before the stated closing date
Many bursaries open months before the academic year and close early, making early preparation important.
Related Article: How to Write a Motivational Letter for a Bursary in 2026
Bursary vs Scholarship vs NSFAS
Although these funding options are often grouped together, they are not the same:
- Bursaries may include service obligations and are often field-specific
- Scholarships are usually merit-based and may have fewer conditions
- NSFAS is income-tested government funding for public institutions
Understanding the difference helps students apply correctly and avoid duplicate applications.
Related Articles:
When Do Bursaries Open for 2026?
There is no single opening date for bursaries in South Africa.
- Some bursaries open as early as mid-2025
- Others open towards the end of the academic year
- Closing dates may range from October to March, depending on the programme
Students should monitor bursary announcements regularly and avoid waiting until the academic year begins.
What to Do If You Do Not Qualify for a Bursary
If a bursary application is unsuccessful, students can still explore:
- Other bursaries in the same field
- NSFAS (for eligible public institution students)
- Institution-based financial aid
- Education loans, where appropriate
Rejections are often due to limited funding rather than ineligibility.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Are bursaries available for postgraduate students?
Yes. Many bursaries support honours, master’s, and doctoral studies, particularly in research, science, and professional fields.
Can students at private colleges get bursaries?
Some bursaries allow private institutions, but most prioritise public universities and TVET colleges.
Do bursaries require repayment?
Most do not require cash repayment, but some require graduates to work for the funder for a set period.
Final Notes for 2026 Applicants
Bursaries remain one of the most reliable ways to fund studies in South Africa, but they are competitive and deadline-driven. Students should apply early, submit accurate documents, and avoid assuming that one bursary guarantees approval for another.
This guide will be updated as new bursary information for 2026 becomes available.
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.
