Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) Bursaries 2027: Apply for Funding

The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) is offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year to South African students. This opportunity is for academically strong students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds who wish to study in fields that support South Africa’s economic growth. Applications are now open and will close on 30 September 2026.

Application Closing Date: 30 September 2026
Location: South African public universities and universities of technology
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Covers registration, tuition, accommodation, meals, transport, and a laptop
Minimum Qualification: Matric (for entry into tertiary studies) or current tertiary results
Opportunity Type: Bursary

About the IDC Bursary Programme 2027

The IDC External Bursary Programme aims to support students pursuing their first undergraduate qualification in fields vital for South Africa’s industrial and economic development. While the focus is on undergraduate studies, limited postgraduate funding may be available in specific areas. The programme is designed to assist students who demonstrate academic potential but face financial challenges.

This bursary covers a range of essential study-related costs, including registration, tuition, accommodation, meals, transport, and a one-time laptop allocation. The goal is to remove financial barriers so that deserving students can focus on their studies and contribute to the nation’s development.

About the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC)

The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) is a national development finance institution. It focuses on promoting economic growth and industrial development in South Africa and the African continent. The IDC provides funding and support to businesses across various sectors, helping to create jobs and drive economic transformation.

Fields of Study Funded

The IDC supports studies in critical areas that align with national development goals. These include engineering, science, technology, agriculture, commerce, finance, law, and quantitative disciplines.

Engineering Fields:

• Industrial Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Electronic Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Mechatronic Engineering
• Mining Engineering
• Metallurgy Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Construction Engineering
• Quantity Surveying

Science and Technology Fields:

• Analytical Chemistry
• Physics
• Biotechnology
• Geology
• Environmental Science
• Bachelor of Science programmes
• Mathematics
• Statistics
• Data Science
• Computer Science
• Information Science
• Information Technology
• BCom Information Systems

Agricultural Studies:

• Agricultural Studies
• Agriculture-related qualifications

Finance and Commerce Fields:

• Accounting – CA stream
• Financial Management
• Internal Audit
• Cost and Management Accounting
• Investment Management
• Risk Management
• Finance Studies
• Economics
• Econometrics
• Financial Accounting
• Financial Engineering
• Business Management
• Entrepreneurship

Supply Chain and Logistics Fields:

• Transport Management
• Logistics Management
• Supply Chain Management

Law Qualifications:

• BCom Law – Commercial Law
• Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
• Diploma Law Studies
• Selected postgraduate Law qualifications

Quantitative Fields:

• Actuarial Science
• Quantitative Risk Management
• Mathematics
• Statistics

What the IDC Bursary Covers

Successful applicants can expect comprehensive financial support for their studies. The bursary aims to cover most of the expenses associated with tertiary education.

The bursary typically covers:

• Registration fees
• Tuition fees
• Examination fees
• University residence accommodation
• University-accredited off-campus accommodation
• Academic resources
• Meal allowance
• Transport allowance
• A once-off laptop allocation

Programme Duration and Location

The bursary is intended for full-time study at South African public universities and universities of technology. The specific duration of the funding will depend on the length of the chosen qualification. The programme is open to students across South Africa who meet the eligibility criteria.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for the IDC Bursary Programme, applicants must meet several criteria. These ensure that the bursary supports students who are most in need and have the potential to succeed.

General Requirements:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Possess a valid South African ID.
• Be unemployed.
• Be no older than 26 years old.
• Be studying or intending to study full-time.
• Attend or plan to attend a South African public university or university of technology.
• Meet the required academic standards for the chosen field of study.
• Be pursuing an eligible field of study as listed by the IDC.

For Current Matric Learners:

• Submit Grade 11 final results.
• Submit June 2026 Grade 12 results.
• A minimum APS of 75% is preferred.

For Current University Students:

• Achieve at least a 65% average in your latest academic results.
• Maintain a minimum 60% GPA throughout the bursary funding period.

Household Income:

• Preference is given to applicants with a combined household income of R350,000 per annum or less.
• Households earning between R350,000 and R600,000 per annum may be considered based on an affordability assessment.

Competencies Required

Beyond academic achievement, certain personal qualities and skills are beneficial for bursary recipients. These help students navigate their studies and future careers effectively.

• Strong academic ability
• Willingness to learn and develop
• Good communication skills
• Ability to manage time effectively
• Self-discipline and motivation
• Adaptability to new environments
• Commitment to contributing to South Africa’s development

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is ideal for ambitious South African youth who are passionate about pursuing higher education in fields that drive national economic growth. If you are a student facing financial constraints but possess strong academic potential and a desire to contribute to South Africa’s industrial and technological advancement, this opportunity is for you. It is particularly suited for those entering their first year of tertiary study or current students who meet the academic and financial requirements.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit clear copies of all required supporting documents. Incomplete applications may lead to disqualification.

Mandatory Documents:

• Recently certified copy of your South African ID (not older than three months).
• Recently certified proof of residence.
• Latest academic results (e.g., Grade 11 final results, June 2026 Grade 12 results, or current tertiary results).
• Matric certificate if you have already completed Matric.

Parent or Guardian Financial Documents (depending on circumstances):

• Latest payslips.
• Three months’ bank statements.
• Affidavit for unemployed parents or guardians.
• Six months’ bank statements for self-employed parents.
• SASSA grant confirmation letter.
• Death certificates for deceased parents.
• Certified copies of parents’ IDs.
• Divorce certificate or sworn statement if parents are separated.

How to Apply

Applications for the IDC Bursary Programme 2027 must be submitted online. Ensure you follow all instructions carefully to submit a complete application.

Click here to apply for the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) Bursary Programme 2027

Applicants should:

• Complete the online application form accurately.
• Fill out the required interview questionnaire.
• Upload all compulsory supporting documents.
• Double-check all personal and academic information before submitting.
• Submit your application before the closing date of 30 September 2026.

Important Notes

Please keep the following points in mind when applying for the IDC Bursary Programme:

• This bursary is exclusively for South African citizens.
• Applicants must not be older than 26 years.
• Funding is strictly for full-time study at public tertiary institutions.
• Financial need is a key consideration for awarding the bursary.
• Current university students must demonstrate a strong academic record.
• Ensure all required documents are certified and uploaded correctly.
• Late applications will not be considered.

Closing Date

The application window for the IDC Bursary Programme 2027 closes on 30 September 2026. It is advisable to submit your application well before this date to avoid any last-minute issues.

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