What is the difference between a bursary and a student loan?

A bursary is money for education that you do not have to repay, as long as you meet any conditions (such as studying a specific field or working for the funder after graduating). A student loan is borrowed money you must repay with interest.

Who qualifies for a bursary in South Africa in 2026?

Qualification varies by bursary. NSFAS requires South African citizenship, enrolment at a public university or TVET college, and household income below R350,000/year. Corporate bursaries often require strong academic results and study in a relevant field.

When should I apply for bursaries for 2026?

Most bursaries for 2026 opened from April to September 2025. For 2027, start looking and applying from April 2026 onwards. Always check the specific bursary deadline — late applications are rarely accepted.

Can I apply for more than one bursary at the same time?

Yes. You can apply for multiple bursaries. However, if awarded both NSFAS and a corporate bursary, you may need to notify NSFAS as their funding may be adjusted. Always disclose other funding when asked on application forms.

What is the Funza Lushaka bursary?

Funza Lushaka is a government bursary for students who want to become teachers. It covers all study costs at a public university. In return, you must teach at a public school for the same number of years you received the bursary. Apply at funzalushaka.gov.za.

Last updated: June 2026— Information is subject to change. Always verify with the relevant government department.

Bursaries 2026 South Africa — Complete List

A bursary is a financial award for tertiary education that you do not have to repay. In South Africa, there are government bursaries, corporate bursaries, and university merit bursaries available for 2026. This guide lists the main bursaries, how to find them, and how to apply.

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What Is a Bursary?

A bursary is free money for education — unlike a student loan, you do not repay it (unless you breach a service obligation where applicable). Common types:

Government bursaries: Funded by government departments (e.g. NSFAS, Funza Lushaka). Usually income-based.
Corporate bursaries: Funded by companies for students in specific fields (engineering, finance, IT). Often come with a work-back obligation.
University merit bursaries: Based on academic performance. Contact your university's financial aid office.

Government Bursaries 2026

National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)

NSFAS is the largest bursary scheme in South Africa. It covers tuition, accommodation, meals, and learning materials for qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges. Household income threshold: R350,000/year. Apply at my.nsfas.org.za. See our full guide: How to Apply for NSFAS 2026.

Funza Lushaka Bursary (Education)

For students wanting to become teachers. Covers all costs at a public university of education. Service obligation: you must teach in a public school for the same number of years you received the bursary. Apply at funzalushaka.gov.za.

NSFAS TVET Bursary

For students at public TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) colleges. Covers registration, tuition, transport allowance, and a small living allowance. Apply via NSFAS at nsfas.org.za.

Department of Social Development (DSD) Bursary

The DSD offers bursaries for students studying social work, child and youth care, and related fields. Contact your provincial DSD office for details and application forms.

SASSETA Bursary (Safety and Security)

For students in safety and security-related fields — law, criminology, forensics. Apply via sasseta.org.za.

HWSETA Bursaries (Health and Welfare)

For students studying health-related fields. Various healthcare organisations and HWSETA offer bursaries. Visit hwseta.org.za for details.

Corporate Bursaries 2026

Many large South African companies offer bursaries, usually for students in fields relevant to their business:

Anglo American: Engineering, geology, finance — angloamerican.com
Sasol: Engineering, science, technology — sasol.com
Old Mutual: Actuarial science, finance, economics — oldmutual.co.za
FirstRand / FNB: Commerce, IT, engineering — firstrand.co.za
Vodacom: IT, engineering, commerce — vodacom.co.za
Standard Bank: Commerce, accounting, IT, engineering — standardbank.co.za
Absa: Finance, IT, commerce — absa.co.za
Eskom: Engineering, IT, finance — eskom.co.za
Transnet: Engineering, finance, logistics — transnet.net
MTN: IT, engineering, commerce — mtn.co.za

Where to Find Bursaries

Bursaries South Africa: bursariessouthafrica.co.za
SA Study: sa-study.com
Careers Portal: careersportal.co.za
Individual company career pages in your field
Your university's financial aid office

Documents Usually Required for Bursary Applications

Certified copy of your South African ID
Certified copy of your matric certificate or latest academic results
Proof of registration or acceptance letter from your institution
Proof of household income (parents'/guardians' payslips or SARS assessment)
Personal motivation letter — make it specific and genuine
Academic reference letter from a teacher or lecturer

Bursary Application Tips

Apply as early as possible — many bursaries open in April/May for the following year
Apply to multiple bursaries — it is perfectly fine to apply to many
Tailor your motivation letter to each bursary — be specific about why you chose that field
Maintain good grades — most bursaries require at least 60–70% average
Follow up to confirm receipt of your application

Frequently Asked Questions

Disclaimer: CitizenHelp is an independent information resource and is not affiliated with any government department. This content is for general guidance only. Always verify with official sources before taking action.