Find Bursaries or Scholarships in South Africa: The Comprehensive Guide. How to find organizations that offer bursaries to assist you in achieving your academic goals.
The Comprehensive Guide to Find Bursaries in South Africa
Are you a South African student who is struggling to fund your tertiary education? You are not alone. Luckily, many organizations and companies in South Africa offer bursaries to financially assist deserving students in reaching their academic goals. In this comprehensive guide, we will provide you with information on how to find bursaries in South Africa and some of the best bursaries available.
What are Bursaries and Scholarships?
Bursaries and scholarships are monetary grants awarded to students who excel academically or require financial assistance to pay for their studies. These financial aids are granted to deserving individuals based on certain eligibility criteria, which may vary depending on the organization or company offering the bursary. For example, grants may cover the full cost of tuition, accommodation, textbooks, and other academic expenses.
How do you qualify for a bursary or scholarship?
The qualifying requirements for bursaries in South Africa vary depending on the organization or company offering the bursary. However, most bursaries require the following criteria:
- Academic merit: Applicants must have a good academic record to be eligible for most bursaries. This includes achieving a specific academic performance level, such as an average of 65% or higher in all subjects.
- Financial need: Many bursaries require proof of financial need. Applicants may need to provide information about their family’s income, the number of dependents, and other financial circumstances that impact their ability to pay for their studies.
- Field of study: Bursaries are often provided for specific fields of study, such as engineering, medicine, or accounting. Applicants may need to be studying in a particular field to qualify for the bursary.
- South African citizenship: Many bursaries are only available to South African citizens.
The coverage of bursaries varies depending on the organization offering the bursary. In general, bursaries cover tuition fees, textbooks, accommodation, and a living allowance. Some bursaries may also cover travel expenses or other related costs. The terms and conditions of each bursary will differ, and it is important for applicants to read these carefully before applying.

Examples of where you can find bursaries: Where to Look For a Bursary Online
Bursaries and scholarships may be offered by various organizations, including government departments, non-profit organizations, and private companies.
- EduConnect offers a comprehensive list of bursaries available in South Africa. Search for bursaries by field of study, institution, and other criteria.
- Bursaries Portal provides information on bursaries, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid available to students in South Africa. Search for bursaries by field of study, institution, and other criteria.
- South African Bursaries is a comprehensive database of bursaries available to students in South Africa. Search for bursaries by field of study, institution, and other criteria.
- Career Wise provides information on bursaries, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid available to students. Search for bursaries by field of study, institution, and other criteria.
- Student Brands offers a database of bursaries available to students in South Africa. Search for bursaries by field of study, institution, and other criteria.
More bursary options
Look for Government Bursaries: Critical Skills
- The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is a government-funded bursary programme for prospective teachers. The programme covers tuition fees, accommodation, and a stipend.
- National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded financial aid scheme. NSFAS provides loans and bursaries to eligible students in South Africa. The scheme covers tuition fees, accommodation, and a stipend.
Find Bursaries: List of Bursaries and Scholarships
- SA Study provides information on bursaries, scholarships, and other forms of financial aid available in South Africa. Search for bursaries by field of study, institution, and other criteria.
- Absa Bank Bursary Programme: This bursary is available to South African citizens who are studying in the fields of accounting, actuarial science, information technology, and other related fields. It covers tuition fees, textbooks, accommodation, and a living allowance.
- Allan Gray Orbis Foundation provides bursaries and scholarships to high-achieving students who demonstrate potential as future entrepreneurs or leaders.
- Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship: This bursary is available to South African citizens who are in their final year of school or have completed their schooling. It covers tuition fees, accommodation, a living allowance, and academic support.
- FirstRand Laurie Dippenaar Scholarship is a prestigious scholarship for postgraduate studies in any field at an international university. The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, and a stipend.
- Sasol Bursary Programme: This bursary is available to South African citizens who are studying in the fields of engineering, science, accounting, and other related fields. It covers tuition fees, textbooks, accommodation, and a living allowance.
- Investec Bank Bursary Programme: This bursary is available to South African citizens who are studying in the fields of commerce, engineering, law, and other related fields. It covers tuition fees, textbooks, accommodation, and a living allowance.
- Vodacom Bursary Programme: This bursary is available to South African citizens who are studying in the fields of engineering, information technology, and other related fields. It covers tuition fees, textbooks, accommodation, and a living allowance.
It is important to note that these are just a few examples of the top bursaries in South Africa, and there are many more available. Applicants should research bursaries carefully and ensure they meet the eligibility criteria before applying.

How to Find Bursaries in South Africa?
Finding bursaries in South Africa can be a daunting task, but with the right information and resources, the process can be more manageable. Here are some tips to help you find bursaries:
- Research online: The internet is a valuable resource for finding bursaries in South Africa. Many websites provide comprehensive lists of available bursaries, along with application requirements, deadlines, and contact information.
- Check with your university or college: Most tertiary institutions have a financial aid office that can assist you with finding bursaries that suit your academic needs and financial situation.
- Research professional associations: Professional associations in various fields may offer bursaries to students studying in their respective fields.
- Check with companies: Many private companies in South Africa offer bursaries to students studying in fields relevant to their industries.
- Check with government departments: The South African government offers bursaries to students studying in various fields, including health sciences, engineering, and social sciences.
Remember to always read the requirements and eligibility criteria carefully before applying for a bursary. Good luck with your search!
Matrics Can Find Bursaries
If you’re in Matric or have completed high school already, you could be eligible for a bursary. Check out the bursary requirements and make sure you meet the criteria or you’ll be wasting your time!
Please bear in mind that a bursary is a little like having a ball and chain attached to your ankle. When you read the bursary or scholarship obligations, make sure you will want to meet them. Be careful what you sign up for! Compare bursary requirements and compete hard for those that include a living allowance.
What does a bursary cover?
A bursary is like a special gift that helps students go to school. It can cover a lot of important things:
1. Full Tuition and Accommodation Fees:
This means it pays for the cost of going to school and also for a place to stay. This way, students can focus on learning without worrying about money.
2. General Allowance:
This helps with buying books and gives a little extra money for food and other things. It makes sure students have what they need for both school and themselves.
3. Mentoring and Academic Support:
Many bursaries come with mentors who are experts in the same field. They help with schoolwork, projects, and even planning for the future. This is like having a special friend who helps you do your best.
4. Vacation Work and Networking Opportunities:
Some bursaries offer chances to work during breaks and meet people who work in the same field. This helps students learn by doing and also make friends who can help them in the future.
5. Guaranteed Employment:
After finishing school, some bursaries promise to help students find a job. This can take away a big worry about what happens next.
6. Continued Support for Professional Board Exams:
Some jobs need special tests to show you are really good at them. Bursaries can help with the costs of these tests, making sure students have what they need to become professionals.
7. Different Kinds of Work Opportunities:
Bursaries can offer chances to try out different jobs in the same field. This helps students figure out what they like and what they are good at.
Giving these special bursary perks is a great way to help students who don’t have a lot of money. It gives them the help they need to do well in school and in their future jobs. Bursaries make it fair for everyone to have the chance to be their very best!
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