Bursaries are grants that pay for your studies, usually in exchange for good results and sometimes a commitment to work for the sponsor afterwards. In South Africa they're offered by companies, government departments, SETAs and universities — often targeting scarce-skill fields. To get one, you apply early, apply widely, and put real effort into each application.
Where to find bursaries
- Large companies (especially in mining, finance, engineering and IT)
- Government departments and state-owned entities
- SETAs, for sector-specific and scarce-skill fields
- Universities' own financial aid and merit bursaries
- Professional bodies (e.g. accounting, engineering)
How bursaries differ from NSFAS and loans
NSFAS is government funding based mainly on household income. Bursaries are usually offered by specific sponsors and can be based on merit, financial need, field of study or all three. A bursary often does not have to be repaid, but many are 'work-back' — you agree to work for the sponsor for a period after qualifying. A student loan, by contrast, must always be repaid with interest.
How to write a strong application
- 1Start early and apply to many bursaries, not just one or two.
- 2Follow every instruction and include all required documents.
- 3Tailor your motivation letter to each bursary and its field.
- 4Highlight your results, financial need and genuine interest in the field.
- 5Meet deadlines — late applications are almost always rejected.
Target scarce-skill fields
Bursaries are most plentiful in fields where the country needs skills — engineering, accounting, IT, health and teaching. Aligning your studies with a scarce skill improves both your funding and your job prospects.
Do bursaries have to be paid back?+
Usually not in money, but many are 'work-back' bursaries: you agree to work for the sponsor for a period after you qualify. Always read the terms before accepting.
When should I apply for bursaries?+
As early as possible — many close in the first half of the year before your studies. Apply during the same period as your university applications, and apply to as many as you qualify for.
Can I get a bursary and NSFAS?+
It depends on the terms of each. Some can be combined, others can't. Check the conditions of both, since a full bursary may make you ineligible for NSFAS and vice versa.
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