Bursaries Closing 30 September 2026: Apply for 2027 Funding

South African students seeking financial aid for their 2027 academic studies have a critical deadline approaching: September 30, 2026. Numerous bursary programmes are available across various fields, offering support for Matric learners, undergraduate, and postgraduate students. These opportunities cover essential areas like Engineering, Finance, IT, Science, Law, and more.

Application Closing Date: 30 September 2026
Location: South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Not specified
Minimum Qualification: Varies (Matric, Undergraduate, Postgraduate)
Opportunity Type: Bursary

About the Bursaries Closing 30 September 2026

This collection of bursaries is designed to support students pursuing higher education in 2027. The programmes aim to assist academically capable and financially deserving individuals who might otherwise struggle to afford their studies. By providing funding for tuition, textbooks, accommodation, and other essential expenses, these bursaries help remove financial barriers to education.

The bursaries cover a wide range of fields, reflecting the diverse needs of the South African economy. This includes critical sectors such as engineering, finance, information technology, computer science, science, law, agriculture, and town planning. The goal is to foster talent and ensure a pipeline of skilled professionals for the country’s development.

About the Organisations Offering Bursaries

Several reputable organisations are offering these bursary opportunities. These include Volkswagen Group Africa, Tomorrow Trust, Standard Bank Group, the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC), and the South African Reserve Bank (SARB). Other notable institutions are the South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL), the South African National Space Agency (SANSA), and the Department of Land Reform and Rural Development.

Additional support comes from the National Housing Finance Corporation (NHFC), Amazon Commercial Services South Africa, the South African National Seed Organization (SANSOR), the Amandla Omoya Trust, and the CISCO Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa. Each organisation plays a role in supporting education and developing future leaders in their respective sectors.

Available Bursary Opportunities

The bursaries available for the 2027 academic year cater to a broad spectrum of study fields. Students can find opportunities in:

• Engineering (various disciplines)
• Finance and Accounting
• Information Technology and Computer Science
• Science (including BSc, STEM fields)
• Law
• Agriculture
• GIS and Town Planning
• Logistics
• Property Sciences
• Economics and Econometrics
• Actuarial Science
• Mathematical Statistics
• Human Resources Management
• Public Procurement and Supply Chain Management
• Remote Sensing and Environmental Science
• Geomatics and Surveying
• Built Environment and Construction Economics
• Development Studies
• Operations Management
• Data Science and Analytics
• Agronomy, Biotechnology, Entomology, Genetics, Horticulture, Plant Pathology, and Plant Physiology
• Technology-related studies

What the Bursaries Offer

Successful applicants can expect comprehensive financial support. While specific benefits vary by bursary, common provisions include:

• Funding for tuition fees
• Assistance with textbook and study material costs
• Support for accommodation and living expenses
• Provision of equipment or laptops
• Mentorship and coaching programmes
• Psychosocial support
• Career development assistance
• Potential for internships or graduate programmes after completion

Programme Duration and Location

The bursaries are generally for the duration of the student’s chosen qualification, typically an academic year for postgraduate studies or the full term for undergraduate degrees. The location for study is usually at recognised public tertiary institutions within South Africa. Some specific programmes may have geographical restrictions, such as those near particular wind farms.

Minimum Requirements

While requirements differ for each bursary, common criteria include:

• South African citizenship
• Academic performance (often with a minimum average, e.g., 65% or 70%)
• Financial need
• Acceptance into a qualifying course at a South African public university or university of technology
• Specific Matric subject requirements for certain fields like Engineering
• For postgraduate bursaries, completion of an undergraduate degree is necessary
• Some bursaries may have age limits or prefer applicants from under-resourced communities or specific geographical areas.

Competencies Required

Beyond academic qualifications, certain personal attributes are often sought by bursary providers:

• Strong academic potential
• Willingness to learn and develop
• Good communication skills
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Commitment to completing studies
• A proactive and responsible attitude
• Interest in the chosen field of study

Who Should Apply?

These bursaries are ideal for South African students who are academically strong but face financial constraints in pursuing their tertiary education. They are suited for individuals passionate about their chosen fields, whether it’s STEM, finance, law, or other critical areas. Students who are motivated, dedicated, and eager to contribute to South Africa’s development after graduation are encouraged to apply.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare a set of documents for their applications. Common requirements include:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Certified copy of South African ID document
• Certified copy of Matric certificate and academic transcripts
• Proof of acceptance or registration at a tertiary institution
• Proof of financial need (e.g., parents’ payslips, affidavit)
• A motivational letter explaining why you should receive the bursary
• For postgraduate applications, proof of undergraduate degree completion

Always check the specific requirements for each bursary.

How to Apply

Each bursary has its own application process, often managed through online portals or specific email addresses. For example, the Volkswagen Group Africa bursary requires applications before midday on 28 September 2026. Many others close on 30 September 2026.

Applicants should visit the respective organisation’s website or the provided links to access the application forms. It is crucial to read all instructions carefully, complete the application accurately, and submit all required certified documents before the deadline.

• Click here to view Volkswagen Group Africa Bursaries 2027
• Click here to apply for Tomorrow Trust Bursaries 2027
• Click here to apply for Standard Bank Group Bursaries 2027
• Click here to apply for IDC Bursaries 2027
• Click here to apply for SARB Bursaries 2027
• Click here to view SARB Economics Bursaries 2027
• Click here to apply for SANRAL External Bursaries 2027
• Click here to apply for SANSA Bursaries 2027
• Click here to apply for DLRRD Bursaries 2027
• Click here to apply for NHFC Bursaries 2027
• Click here to apply for Amazon Operations Bursaries 2027
• Click here to apply for SANSOR Postgraduate Bursaries 2027
• Click here to apply for Amandla Omoya Trust Bursaries 2027
• Click here to apply for CISCO South Africa Bursaries 2027

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Late applications will not be considered.
• Ensure all submitted documents are certified and clear.
• Double-check all personal and academic information before submitting.
• Read the eligibility criteria carefully for each bursary to ensure you qualify.

Closing Date

The primary closing date for most of these bursary programmes is 30 September 2026. The Volkswagen Group Africa bursary closes earlier, on 28 September 2026. It is advisable to submit applications well before these dates to avoid any last-minute technical issues.

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