Last updated on July 2, 2026
A bursary is financial support given by a government department, company, or organisation to help a student cover study costs, often based on financial need or academic potential.
Many students in South Africa hear the word bursary when applying for university, but not everyone understands what is a bursary or how it actually works. Unlike loans, most bursaries do not require repayment, although some may require you to work for the sponsor after graduation. Understanding how bursaries work can help students choose the right funding option before applying.
Quick Glance
- A bursary is financial assistance given to students to cover study costs.
- It is usually awarded based on financial need, academic merit, or both.
- Most bursaries do not require repayment, but some include work-back obligations.
- Funding may cover tuition only or extend to accommodation, books, and living expenses.
- Eligibility and conditions depend on the sponsor’s criteria and field of study.
Table of Contents
What Is a Bursary?
A bursary is money given to students to help them study.
It usually covers tuition fees, learning materials, or living costs — and in most cases, it doesn’t need to be paid back.
Think of it as a helping hand for students who have the talent but not the finances to pursue education.
Across Africa, and especially in South Africa, bursaries have opened the door for thousands of learners in universities and TVET colleges.
Who Qualifies for a Bursary?
Most bursaries target students who can prove both academic ability and financial need.
Typical requirements include:
- South African citizenship or residency in the sponsoring country.
- Minimum average marks (often 60 – 70 %).
- Acceptance or enrolment at a recognised public institution.
- Field of study relevant to the funder’s industry (e.g., engineering, IT, education).
- Good conduct and commitment to complete studies.
“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.”
How Does a Bursary Work in South Africa?
The process is simple once you understand it.
- Application: Students apply directly to a funder such as NSFAS or a private company like Investec.
- Screening: Applications are reviewed based on academic record, family income, and study field.
- Selection: Shortlisted students are invited for interviews or document checks.
- Agreement: Successful candidates sign a bursary contract explaining what is covered and any conditions.
- Payment: Funds are sent directly to the university or college to cover tuition and related expenses.
Types of Bursaries in South Africa and Across Africa
| Type | What It Is | Typical Criteria | Examples |
| Government Bursary | Publicly funded programs that cover university and college fees | Financial need + academic performance | NSFAS, DHET bursaries |
| Corporate / Industry | Companies support students in fields they need skills in | Strong marks in relevant subjects | SANRAL Bursary, Investec Bursary |
| Foundation / NGO | Private trusts that help students based on need or leadership potential | Academic potential + character | Allan Gray Orbis Foundation, Mastercard Foundation |
| Sector Authority (SETA / TETA) | Funds technical training and skills programs | TVET or industry-specific eligibility | TETA Bursary, SETA schemes |
| University Bursaries | Offered by institutions to support their students | Merit + need combination | UCT, Wits, University of Nairobi |
How to Apply for a Bursary (Step-by-Step)
1. Research Programs
Start with official sources:
- nsfas.org.za for national funding
- sanral.co.za for engineering students
- teta.org.za for transport and logistics
- investec.com for finance and commerce
2. Check Eligibility
Confirm age, marks, citizenship, and field requirements. Most South African bursaries are for public institutions only.
3. Prepare Documents
You’ll need:
- Certified ID copy and parent income proof
- Academic transcripts and acceptance letter
- Motivation letter explaining why you need the bursary
4. Apply Online or by Email
Complete the online form on each funder’s website and upload documents before the deadline.
Deadlines often fall between August and November for the next academic year.
5. Follow Up and Wait for Results
Shortlisted students are contacted via email or SMS. Be patient and check your email regularly.
Bursary vs Scholarship vs Loan
| Feature | Bursary | Scholarship | Loan |
| Focus | Financial need (often with merit) | Academic merit | Repayable credit |
| Repayment | Not required unless you break rules | Never required | Mandatory with interest |
| Who Funds It | Govt., companies, foundations | Foundations, schools | Banks, finance bodies |
| Extra Support | Sometimes mentorship or work-back | Recognition and networking | None |
| Example | NSFAS, SANRAL | Allan Gray | Bank study loans |
Final Thoughts
A bursary can make education more affordable for students who need financial support, but every bursary has its own rules, documents, and closing dates. Before applying, check the eligibility requirements carefully and make sure your details are correct. If you do not qualify for one bursary, keep looking because there may be other funding options through NSFAS, SETA, universities, companies, or private organisations.
FAQs
What is a bursary loan?
A bursary loan is not a standard funding category, but the term is sometimes used informally to describe funding that starts as a loan and may be converted into a bursary if certain conditions are met. In most cases, a bursary is non-repayable, while a loan must be repaid with interest, so it is important to read the funding agreement carefully to understand whether repayment or service obligations apply.
What is a bursary and how does it work?
A bursary is financial assistance provided to students to cover study costs such as tuition and related expenses. It is awarded based on criteria set by the sponsor, and funding is usually paid directly to the educational institution.
Do you have to pay back a bursary?
Most bursaries do not require repayment. However, some include a work-back agreement, and failure to meet contractual obligations may result in repayment.
What are the differences between bursaries and scholarships?
Bursaries are often awarded based on financial need or combined criteria, while scholarships are primarily merit-based. Scholarships rarely include service obligations, whereas bursaries sometimes do.
Who receives a bursary?
Students who meet financial, academic, or field-specific criteria set by the sponsor may receive a bursary. Many bursaries target students studying in high-demand professions.
Which students qualify for bursary?
Qualification depends on sponsor requirements, but students typically must demonstrate financial need, acceptable academic performance, and enrollment at a recognised institution.
Is bursary the same as scholarship?
No. While both provide funding for education, bursaries are often linked to financial need or contractual obligations, whereas scholarships are usually merit-based and do not require service commitments.
What are the disadvantages of bursary?
Some bursaries include strict academic requirements or service contracts. Failure to comply with these conditions can lead to withdrawal of funding or repayment obligations.
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.
