Dedicated Bursary Websites & Portals

These organisations compile and administer bursaries across South Africa — a great starting point for your search.

  • StudyTrust A well-known organisation administering various bursary and scholarship programmes across multiple fields. Visit StudyTrust
  • ZABursaries / SA Bursaries Websites that compile open bursaries, categorised by closing date or field of study. The Student Room
  • NSTF – National Science and Technology Forum Lists available bursaries, particularly for STEM fields. Visit NSTF
  • Career Wise Administers bursaries on behalf of government departments and private companies. Visit Career Wise
  • TTI Bursary Management Provides funding opportunities for undergraduate and some postgraduate students. Visit TTI Bursaries

Government Departments & Agencies

  • NSFAS – National Student Financial Aid Scheme Primary government entity for financial support to disadvantaged students at universities and TVET colleges. View our NSFAS Guide
  • DHET – Department of Higher Education and Training Oversees higher education and provides information on various government funding schemes.
  • SETA Websites Sector Education and Training Authorities offer bursaries relevant to specific economic sectors.
  • Specific Government Departments Some departments offer bursaries related to their mandate.
    DSAC Bursaries DFFE Bursaries

Corporate & Company Bursaries

Many private companies offer bursaries — look for "careers", "CSI", or "bursaries" sections on their websites.

University & TVET College Financial Aid

Almost all public universities and TVET colleges have financial aid offices that provide information on internal bursaries they offer, as well as external bursaries that their students commonly apply for.

Contact the financial aid office at the institution you plan to attend — they often know about bursaries that aren't widely advertised.

Example: Stellenbosch University Bursaries

Other Resources

  • High School Career Guidance Counsellors Often hold updated lists of bursaries and can guide you on suitable options based on your academic profile.
  • Newspapers & Online Job Boards Bursary advertisements are frequently placed here during application seasons — keep an eye out during September to January.

Tips for Your Bursary Search

  • 1
    Start Early — Bursary applications often open months before the academic year and have strict closing dates. Don't miss out.
  • 2
    Check Eligibility Criteria — Carefully read requirements regarding academic performance, field of study, financial need, and age.
  • 3
    Prepare Your Documents — Have certified copies of your ID, academic transcripts, proof of income, and acceptance letters ready before applying.
  • 4
    Tailor Your Applications — Customise your cover letter and motivation letter for each bursary provider — generic applications rarely succeed.
  • 5
    Focus on Your Field — Search specifically for bursaries relevant to your chosen course of study to improve your chances.

Good luck with your bursary applications!