Free State Provincial Government Bursaries 2027: Funding for Scarce Skills
The Free State Office of the Premier is offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year to students residing in the Free State province. This programme aims to support studies in critical and scarce skills fields, including STEM, Finance, and Public Governance. Applications are open to unemployed youth aged 18 to 35 who meet specific household income requirements.
Application Closing Date: 13 November 2026 at 16:00
Location: Free State, South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Monthly living allowance may be provided
Minimum Qualification: Matric or equivalent, for Degree and Diploma studies
Opportunity Type: Bursary
About the Free State Provincial Government Bursary 2027
The Free State Provincial Government, through its Office of the Premier, provides bursary opportunities to develop essential skills within the province. This initiative aims to boost the provincial workforce by supporting students pursuing qualifications in areas identified as having critical or scarce skills. The bursary specifically targets qualifying students who live in the Free State.
Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years old, unemployed, and either currently studying or planning to study full-time at a recognised South African university or university of technology. Preference will be given to applicants from previously disadvantaged backgrounds.
About the Free State Provincial Government
The Free State Provincial Government is committed to improving the lives of its citizens through various service delivery programmes. The Office of the Premier plays a key role in coordinating government efforts and driving development initiatives across the province. This bursary programme is one example of their dedication to investing in the province’s future by supporting education and skills development.
Available Bursary Opportunities
Bursaries are available for degree or diploma studies in the following fields:
- STEM – Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics
- Finance
- Economics
- Accounting
- Psychology-related studies
- Social Sciences
- Aviation Studies
- Various Bachelor of Administration programmes
- Public Governance
- Developmental Studies
Applicants should confirm that their chosen course of study aligns with these listed fields before applying.
What the Bursary Offers
Successful applicants can receive financial assistance for:
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Learning aid devices, where applicable
- Meals
- Accommodation, where applicable
- Transport, where applicable
- A monthly living allowance, where applicable
The exact support provided will depend on the student’s individual needs and the bursary’s specific conditions. Recipients also gain access to support structures like the Student Liaison and Support Unit for academic and emotional guidance.
Programme Duration and Location
The duration of the bursary programme is not specified. The bursary is open to students residing within the Free State province who will be studying at a recognised Higher Education Institution in South Africa.
Minimum Requirements
To be eligible for this bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Reside within the Free State province.
- Be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Be currently completing Matric or have already completed Matric.
- Have a total household income of less than R600,000 per year.
- Be studying or intending to study full-time towards an eligible degree or diploma.
- Be accepted at a recognised and accredited Higher Education Institution in South Africa.
- Study at a university or university of technology.
- Not be receiving other government funding.
- Be unemployed.
- Be willing to work within the related service sectors after completion.
Preference will be given to students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds.
Competencies Required
While specific competencies are not detailed, applicants should demonstrate a strong willingness to learn and a commitment to their chosen field of study. An understanding of the importance of scarce skills in the province will also be beneficial.
Who Should Apply?
This bursary is ideal for unemployed South African youth residing in the Free State who are passionate about pursuing higher education in fields critical to the province’s development. If you are aiming for a career in STEM, Finance, Public Governance, or related areas and meet the age and income requirements, this opportunity could be for you.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit clear copies of the following supporting documents:
- Certified copy of the applicant’s ID.
- Certified copy of September Matric results if currently in Matric.
- Certified copy of the Matric certificate if Matric has already been completed.
- Proof of acceptance from a registered Higher Education Institution.
- Proof of residence not older than three months.
- Certified copies of parents’ or guardians’ ID documents.
- Parents’ or guardians’ death certificates where applicable.
- Proof of parents’ or guardians’ household income.
Incomplete applications or those missing compulsory documents may be disqualified.
How to Apply
Applications must be hand-delivered to:
FSTDI Brahman Building
124 Nelson Mandela Drive
Westdene
Bloemfontein
9301
Applications should be delivered to the Bursary Unit at the reception area. Applicants can enter www.zabursaries.co.za in the section asking how they heard about the bursary. Ensure all required documents are attached before submission.
Important Notes
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- Shortlisted applicants should be contacted within four months after the closing date.
- If you have not received feedback within four months, consider your application unsuccessful.
- Applicants must ensure all required certifications are valid.
- Keep a copy of your completed application and supporting documents for your records.
Closing Date
Applications close on 13 November 2026 at 16:00. Late applications will not be accepted.
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