Are you a young South African currently in your final year of high school, a recent matriculant, or a university/college student who is facing financial difficulties and struggling to find funding for your studies next year? We understand that the cost of tertiary education can be daunting, and that’s why we have compiled a comprehensive list of bursaries that are currently open for the 2025 academic year. Our list covers a wide range of fields, from Engineering, Medicine, and Law to Fine Arts, Music, and Journalism.
We also support both undergraduate and postgraduate students, so no matter what stage of your academic journey you are at, we’ve got you covered. Our bursaries are offered by various institutions, including government departments, private companies, and non-profit organizations. We encourage you to take a look at our list and apply for the bursaries that best suit your needs and interests. We want to help you achieve your academic goals and pave the way towards a bright future.
Why you should apply for a bursary
Higher Learning Education is expensive, beyond tuition fees, students need to factor in the cost of prescribed textbooks, accommodation, meals and monthly allowances, which can easily push the total annual expense beyond R100,000. This is where bursaries come in, offering financial assistance to students.
Advantages of Bursaries:
- Access to Education: Bursaries eliminate financial barriers, enabling students from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue their qualifications.
- Reduced Financial Stress: By covering tuition fees and other educational costs, bursaries alleviate financial pressure on students, allowing them to focus on their studies without the burden of debt.
- Enhanced Focus and Performance: Freed from financial worries, students can devote their time and energy to excelling in their academics, resulting in improved grades and performance.
- Community Strengthening: Bursaries contribute to the development of skilled and educated individuals, thereby bolstering communities through supporting educational attainment.
Additional Support Offered by Bursaries:
Apart from financial benefits, many bursaries provide supplementary support, including:
- Mentorship and Guidance: Pairing students with experienced professionals who offer guidance and support throughout their academic journey.
- Internship and Career Development Opportunities: Offering valuable work experience to students, aiding in their preparation for future careers.
- Networking Opportunities: Facilitating connections between students and industry professionals, as well as potential employers, thus expanding their professional network.
South African Bursaries that are open for the 2025 academic year
We have done our research and have compiled a comprehensive list of all bursaries that are open for the 2025 academic year. Do not miss an opportunity to further your studies while there are so many bursaries you can apply for. This list is constantly updated, so make sure that you visit this page occasionally to discover new updates on the South African bursaries that are open for 2025.
list of South African bursaries that are open for the 2025 academic year:
Nedbank Bursary
Deadline: July 31, 2024
Sage External Bursary
Deadline: November 30, 2024
DALRRD Bursary
Deadline: September 30, 2024
Thuthuka Bursary
Deadline: August 31, 2024
Ninety One Bursary
Deadline: July 31, 2024
Investec Tertiary Bursary 2025
Deadline: September 30, 2024
TTI Bursary 2025
Deadline: Undisclosed
Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary
Deadline: September 30, 2024
Santam Bursary
Deadline: September 30, 2024
HP Inc South Africa Bursary
Deadline: November 30, 2024
Amazon Recruitment Bursary
Deadline: September 30, 2024
Toyota SA Motors Bursary
Deadline: September 30, 2024
Standard Bank Group Bursary
Deadline: September 30, 2024
Promaths Bursary
Deadline: September 30, 2024
IITPSA Bursary
Deadline: September 30, 2024
Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship
Deadline: October 10, 2024
AWS Skills Development Bursary
Deadline: September 30, 2024
More will be added soon.
How to apply for bursaries in South Africa
To successfully apply for bursaries, it’s important to understand the different application methods that are used. While some bursaries still rely on traditional hard copy forms, others have moved to online application systems. It’s important to note that each bursary has its own application process, so it’s crucial to read the application guidelines carefully before applying.
If you’re applying for a bursary that requires hard copy forms, you will need to print out the forms, complete them by hand, and then submit them physically. On the other hand, if you’re applying for a bursary that has an online application system, you can conveniently fill out the forms on the bursary’s website or dedicated platform.
When applying for a bursary, you may be required to submit supporting documents, such as a CV, academic records, proof of income, and motivational letters. Some bursaries may require additional documents, such as reference letters or essays. It’s important to read the application guidelines carefully to ensure that you provide all the required documents.
To make it easy for your application to be reviewed, it’s important to organize these documents neatly and label them clearly. For example, you can label your documents in a way that clearly indicates what each document is, such as “Academic Record,” “CV,” or “Motivational Letter.” This will help the bursary committee to easily and quickly review your application.
Guide on how to apply for bursaries
If you’re looking for financial assistance to help pay for your education, bursaries can be a great option. However, the application process can be confusing and overwhelming. That’s why we’ve put together a guide to help you apply for bursaries.
First, research the bursaries that are available, which we have done for you on this page. Look for ones that are relevant to your field of study and meet your eligibility criteria.
Next, make a list of the bursaries you want to apply for and carefully read through the application requirements. Some bursaries may require you to submit transcripts, essays, or other documents, so make sure you have everything you need before you start filling out the application.
When you’re ready to apply, fill out the application form carefully and accurately. Pay attention to deadlines and make sure you submit your application on time. If you have any questions or need help with your application, don’t hesitate to reach out to the bursary provider for assistance.
South African Bursaries Requirements
Bursary requirements vary significantly among providers, emphasizing the importance of carefully reviewing each provider’s specific criteria. Generally, bursary providers specify their funding criteria based on:
- Study Level: Whether they support undergraduate or postgraduate studies.
- Location: The provinces, cities, or regions they extend their support to.
- Age: The eligible age range of applicants.
- Fields: Specific courses or fields of study they fund, often aligned with their organizational mission.
- Expenses: The expenses covered by the bursary, such as tuition, accommodation, and living expenses.
- Institution: The universities or colleges they provide funding for.
- Motivation: The requirement for a motivational letter elucidating your eligibility and aspirations.
- Proof: Documentation necessary for verification purposes, including proof of identity, income, residence, academic records, registration, and acceptance letters.
Closing Dates
It’s crucial to stay on top of closing dates for bursary applications, as each one has a strict deadline. Late submissions are unfortunately not considered. Take control of your future by regularly checking closing dates and applying well in advance.
Remember, bursaries are granted based on specific criteria, so ensure you meet eligibility requirements before applying. If you’re not eligible for one, don’t give up. Keep exploring other options on our website.
Persistence pays off! Through continuous research and thorough application preparation, you’ll find a bursary that aligns with your educational journey. Be sure to include all requested documents, such as transcripts, proof of income, and a motivational letter, to showcase your suitability.
Education is an investment in yourself and your future, and these bursaries are designed to support that investment. Start early, understand the requirements, and submit your applications on time. Best of luck in your bursary search and application journey!
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