Bursaries Closing by 20 November 2026: Funding Opportunities for Students

South African students and Grade 12 learners still have a chance to secure funding for their 2027 studies. Several bursary opportunities are available, with applications closing between 13 and 20 November 2026. These bursaries cover a range of fields, including Engineering, Finance, Information Technology, Health Sciences, and more.

Application Closing Date: 13-20 November 2026
Location: South Africa
Programme Duration: Varies by bursary
Stipend: Varies by bursary
Minimum Qualification: Varies by bursary (Matric, Diploma, Degree)
Opportunity Type: Bursary

About Bursaries Closing by 20 November 2026

This collection of bursaries offers financial support for students pursuing higher education in South Africa for the 2027 academic year. The opportunities are designed to assist learners in fields identified as critical for the country’s development. Many of these bursaries aim to cover essential study costs, and some may also provide a stipend for living expenses.

The bursaries are open to South African citizens and, in some cases, permanent residents, with specific age and residency requirements often in place. Applicants are encouraged to review the detailed requirements for each bursary to ensure they qualify before applying.

About Bursary Funding in South Africa

Bursary funding plays a crucial role in enabling many students to access tertiary education. These programmes are often provided by government entities, private companies, and non-profit organisations. They aim to address skills shortages and promote equal access to education.

Many bursaries focus on fields like Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), as well as Health Sciences and Finance. The goal is to equip the next generation of professionals with the skills needed to contribute to the South African economy.

Available Bursary Opportunities

Here are some of the bursary programmes with closing dates around 20 November 2026:

• Witzenberg Municipality Mayoral Bursary Programme 2027
• Free State Provincial Government Bursary 2027
• Transcend Corporate Advisors Bursary 2027
• North West Provincial Government Victor Thebe Sifora Provincial Bursary Scheme 2027
• ABB Education Trust Bursary 2027
• Donald White / Mandla A. Ndwanya Memorial Fund Magurtha H. White Bursary Programme 2027
• FEM Bursary 2027
• South African Table Grape Industry (SATI) Bursary 2027
• NSFAS Funding Applications 2027
• Ruwacon Bursary 2027

What the Bursaries Offer

Successful applicants can expect a range of benefits, depending on the specific bursary programme. Common provisions include:

• Funding for tuition fees
• Support for registration fees
• Payment for prescribed textbooks
• A monthly stipend for living expenses
• Assistance with accommodation and meals
• Transport allowances where applicable
• Exposure to industry-specific knowledge and potential career paths

Programme Duration and Location

The duration of these bursary programmes varies. Some provide funding for a single academic year, while others may cover the entire duration of a qualification. Most bursaries are open to applicants across South Africa, with some having specific provincial or municipal residency requirements.

For instance, the Witzenberg Municipality Bursary is for residents of that specific municipality in the Western Cape. The Free State and North West Provincial Government bursaries are specifically for residents of those respective provinces.

Minimum Requirements

While specific requirements differ for each bursary, common criteria include:

• South African citizenship or permanent residency
• Age between 18 and 35 years (for some bursaries)
• Permanent residency within a specific municipality or province (for some bursaries)
• A combined household income not exceeding R350,000 per year (for NSFAS and some others)
• Successful completion of Grade 12 (Matric) or equivalent
• Enrolment or acceptance into a recognised public higher education institution
• Pursuing a qualification in a field supported by the bursary

Competencies Required

Beyond academic qualifications, bursary providers often look for candidates who demonstrate:

• A strong willingness to learn and develop
• Good communication skills
• Computer literacy
• Interpersonal skills
• A proactive and self-motivated attitude
• The ability to work under pressure
• A commitment to their chosen field of study

Who Should Apply?

These bursaries are ideal for ambitious students and Grade 12 learners who are passionate about their chosen fields of study and require financial assistance to pursue their educational goals. They are particularly suited for those who meet the specific residency or academic requirements and are looking to contribute to South Africa’s development in areas like engineering, finance, health, and technology.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents for their applications:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Certified copy of South African ID document
• Certified copy of Matric certificate or Grade 12 results
• Certified copies of any other relevant qualifications
• Academic transcripts or record
• Proof of acceptance or registration at a tertiary institution
• Proof of residence
• Proof of household income (e.g., payslips, affidavit)
• A motivational letter, if requested

How to Apply

Application methods vary. Some bursaries require online applications through specific portals, while others may involve submitting documents via email. For NSFAS funding, applications are done online through the myNSFAS platform.

Applicants should always check the specific instructions for each bursary. It is advisable to prepare all required documents in advance and submit applications well before the closing date to avoid any last-minute issues.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Late applications will not be considered.
• Ensure all submitted documents are certified and clear.
• Verify that you meet all the minimum requirements before applying.
• Double-check all personal information and details on your application.

Closing Date

The closing dates for these bursary opportunities are staggered, with most falling between 13 November 2026 and 20 November 2026. It is crucial to note the exact closing date and time for each specific bursary you are interested in.

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