IDC Bursaries 2027: Apply for Financial Support for Your Studies

The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) is offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year to South African students. This opportunity is for those pursuing full-time studies at public universities and universities of technology in various fields, including Finance, Management, Engineering, IT, Science, and Law. Applications 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 tuition, accommodation, laptop, meals, and transport
Minimum Qualification: Varies by field, generally undergraduate or Honours
Opportunity Type: Bursary

About the IDC Bursary Scheme 2027

The IDC External Bursary Scheme aims to support academically deserving South African students who face financial challenges. It provides funding for full-time undergraduate and some postgraduate studies in fields crucial for South Africa’s industrial and economic development. The bursary covers essential study expenses to help students complete their qualifications without financial strain.

About the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC)

The Industrial Development Corporation is a South African development finance institution. Its main goal is to support industrial development, drive economic growth, attract investment, and create jobs. Through initiatives like the External Bursary Scheme, the IDC invests in developing skilled professionals needed in the country’s industrial, financial, technological, and economic sectors.

Available Bursary Opportunities

The IDC bursary supports a wide range of fields. Applications are considered for the following areas:

• Finance, Management, and Business: Accounting, Financial Management, Internal Auditing, Cost and Management Accounting, Investment Management, Risk Management, Transport Management, Logistics Management, Supply Chain Management, Entrepreneurship, Finance, Economics, Econometrics, Business Management, Financial Accounting, Financial Engineering.
• Engineering, Science, and Technology: Industrial Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Mechatronic Engineering, Mining Engineering, Civil Engineering, Construction-related Engineering, Quantity Surveying, Metallurgical Engineering, Analytical Chemistry, Geology, Actuarial Science, Data Science, Environmental Science, Quantitative Risk Management, Physics, Bachelor of Science programmes, Biotechnology, Agricultural Studies, Mathematics, Statistics, Computer Science, Information Science, BCom Information Systems, Information Technology.
• Law and Education: BCom Law specialising in Commercial Law, Bachelor of Laws, Diploma in Law Studies, Education.
• Honours Programmes: Postgraduate Law qualifications, Mathematics, Statistics, Actuarial Science, Accounting CTA.

What the IDC Bursary Offers

Successful applicants can expect financial support for several study-related expenses. This includes:

• Full tuition fees
• University accommodation
• University-accredited off-campus accommodation
• A once-off laptop
• Meal allowance
• Transport allowance
• Other approved study-related expenses

The final funding package will be determined by the conditions outlined in the bursary agreement.

Programme Duration and Location

The bursary is intended for full-time studies at South African public universities and universities of technology. The specific duration of the bursary support will depend on the length of the chosen qualification. The location of study will be at the institution the student is admitted to.

Minimum Requirements

To be eligible for the IDC Bursary Scheme, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be South African citizens.
• Be 26 years old or younger.
• Be unemployed.
• Demonstrate financial need.
• Be studying or intending to study full-time.
• Be admitted to a South African public university or university of technology.
• Be pursuing one of the qualifications listed in the IDC-approved fields.
• Be studying towards a first undergraduate qualification, with limited exceptions for approved Honours programmes.
• Meet the academic requirements for the chosen qualification and institution.
• Submit all compulsory supporting documents.

Competencies Required

While not explicitly listed as formal requirements, applicants who demonstrate the following qualities may be favoured:

• Strong academic performance.
• A clear understanding of their chosen field of study.
• A commitment to completing their studies.
• The ability to manage their finances effectively.

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is ideal for South African students who are financially needy and academically capable. It is suited for those pursuing specific undergraduate or Honours qualifications in fields that contribute to the country’s industrial and economic growth. Applicants must be dedicated to their studies and committed to completing their chosen course of learning.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents. All certified copies should not be older than three months:

• Recently certified South African identity document.
• 2026 mid-year or first-semester results.
• Latest academic results if not studying during 2026.
• Matric certificate, where applicable.
• Grade 11 and June 2026 results for current Matric learners.
• Proof of admission or application to an eligible institution.
• Proof of household income (e.g., payslips, bank statements, affidavits, SASSA letters, death certificates, divorce certificates).
• Certified identity documents for both parents or guardians.
• Recently certified proof of residence.

How to Apply

Applications for the IDC Bursary Programme 2027 must be submitted online through the official IDC bursary portal.

Click here to apply for the IDC Bursary Programme 2027

Follow these steps:

1. Visit the official IDC Bursary Portal.
2. Register a new applicant profile.
3. Fill in all personal and academic details accurately.
4. Provide correct household income information.
5. Select the appropriate field of study.
6. Upload all required supporting documents.
7. Complete the interview questionnaire.
8. Review your application thoroughly.
9. Submit your application before the closing date.
10. Keep a record of your submission.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
• Applicants must ensure their chosen qualification is on the IDC’s approved list.
• All submitted documents must be certified and not older than three months.
• Accurate household income information is essential for the application.

Closing Date

The application period for the IDC External Bursary Scheme 2027 closes on Wednesday, 30 September 2026. It is advisable to apply early to gather all necessary documents and complete the application process without rush.

Final Thoughts

The IDC Bursary Scheme offers a valuable opportunity for financially needy and academically strong students to pursue their education in critical fields. By covering essential study costs, it helps to develop future professionals who can contribute to South Africa’s economic landscape. Eligible students are encouraged to prepare their documents and apply before the closing date.

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