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Funding & Bursaries

Find Your Bursary

Discover top bursaries, scholarships, and NSFAS funding available to South African students in 2025 and 2026.

Top Bursaries & Funding Opportunities

Finding the right bursary can make the difference between studying and missing out. South Africa has hundreds of funding opportunities — from government programmes like NSFAS to corporate bursaries from major companies. The key is knowing where to look and applying early.

NSFAS Official ZA Bursaries Funza Lushaka

Popular Bursaries in 2025/2026

Government

NSFAS

Covers tuition, accommodation, meals, transport, and a personal care allowance for qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges.

Apply on NSFAS
Teaching

Funza Lushaka

Full bursary for students studying to become teachers at public universities. Covers all costs including accommodation and learning materials.

Learn more
Research

CSIR Bursary

For students in science, engineering, and technology fields. Covers undergraduate and postgraduate studies at South African universities.

Apply at CSIR
Development

IDC Bursary

The Industrial Development Corporation offers bursaries for students in fields that support South Africa's economic development goals.

IDC Programme
International

NAC International

Bursaries for students wanting to study internationally. Covers arts, culture, and creative industry fields at international institutions.

NAC Bursaries
General

Zabursaries Database

A comprehensive database of hundreds of bursaries across all fields of study. Updated regularly with closing dates and application links.

Browse all

How to Apply for a Bursary

Most bursaries open applications between March and September for the following academic year. Apply early — spots are limited.

1 Check the requirements

Each bursary has its own criteria — academic results, field of study, financial need, or citizenship. Read the requirements carefully before investing time in an application.

2 Gather your documents

Most applications need: certified ID copy, latest academic results, proof of household income (parents' payslips or SASSA letter), and a motivational letter.

3 Write a strong motivational letter

Your motivational letter should explain why you need the bursary, what you're studying, and what you plan to do with your qualification. Be specific and genuine.

4 Submit before the deadline

Never submit on the last day. Technical issues happen. Aim to submit at least a week before the closing date and save your confirmation email.

5 Follow up

If you haven't heard back two weeks after the deadline, it's acceptable to send a polite follow-up email asking about the status of your application.

Application Tips

  • Apply to multiple bursaries — there's no rule against receiving more than one offer
  • Keep your academic records and certified documents updated at all times
  • Follow the bursary provider on social media for deadline reminders
  • Ask your school guidance counsellor for lesser-known local bursaries
  • NSFAS only covers public universities and TVET colleges — private institutions are not eligible

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for NSFAS and a corporate bursary at the same time?
Yes. You can apply for multiple funding sources simultaneously. However, some bursary providers may require you to disclose other funding you have received.
What if I don't qualify for NSFAS?
There are hundreds of other bursaries available that don't use the same income threshold as NSFAS. Corporate bursaries, provincial bursaries, and sector-specific funding often have different criteria.
Do bursaries need to be repaid?
NSFAS converts to a bursary (not a loan) if you pass your modules. Most corporate bursaries require you to work for the company for a set period after graduation, or they become repayable.
When should I start applying?
As soon as possible — ideally in your final year of high school. Many bursaries close by October or November for the following academic year.
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