List of Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026

Welcome to our updated guide on Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026/2027. This page is designed to assist students and bursary applicants who are actively seeking financial support to pursue or complete their studies at the tertiary level. We are committed to providing accurate, up-to-date information and continually update this resource with the latest bursary opportunities available across South Africa.

Despite bursary being a critical form of educational support in South Africa, many students and parents still do not fully understand what bursaries are or how they work. It’s a common to see learners complete high school with dreams of attending university or college, only to discover that the cost of tertiary education is beyond reach. They may have heard of scholarships or student loans, but the term “bursary” often remains unfamiliar or misunderstood.

A bursary is a financial award given to a student to help cover the costs of their education, such as tuition fees, textbooks, accommodation, and sometimes even living expenses. Unlike a student loan, a bursary generally does not need to be repaid, provided the recipient meets the terms and conditions outlined by the bursary provider. These conditions often include academic performance requirements, community service, or a commitment to work for the sponsoring organization after graduation.

Many assume bursaries are only for top-performing students or those with connections, but this is not always the case. Bursaries can be merit-based, need-based, or linked to specific fields of study, such as engineering, teaching, nursing, or agriculture. In fact, a large number of bursaries are created specifically to support previously disadvantaged individuals, rural students, or those entering critical skills sectors in South Africa.

Unfortunately, a lack of awareness and access to information means that many eligible students miss out on opportunities simply because they didn’t know bursaries existed or didn’t know how to apply. That’s why resources like this page are essential to break down what bursaries are, highlight who qualifies, and provide List of Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026 and the step-by-step guidance on how to apply for them.

Important Notice: At SATrends, we take pride in delivering accurate and reliable information. To make your search easier, we have organised all bursaries Available for 2026 into three clear categories: