SAMSTIP (Southern African Mathematics and Science Teacher Intern Programme) Bursary Application for 2026/2027
Detailed guide on SAMSTIP (Southern African Mathematics and Science Teacher Intern Programme) Bursary Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student passionate about mathematics, physical sciences, or life sciences, and driven to make a meaningful impact in education? The SAMSTIP Bursary Programme 2026/2027 is now open for applications, offering full financial support to talented students who aspire to become qualified mathematics and science teachers. SAMSTIP is a national initiative funded by the Department of Basic Education (DBE) and implemented by selected public universities, aimed at addressing South Africa’s critical shortage of maths and science educators.
The SAMSTIP bursary provides comprehensive funding, which typically covers tuition fees, accommodation, meals, prescribed textbooks, and a monthly stipend. In addition to financial support, the programme offers structured academic support, mentorship, and teaching practice opportunities at partner schools, ensuring that students are well-prepared for the classroom environment. Bursary recipients are required to commit to teaching mathematics or science at a public school upon completion of their studies, contributing directly to improving education outcomes in South Africa.
By applying for the SAMSTIP Bursary 2026/2027, students not only gain access to fully funded teaching qualifications but also secure a clear pathway into a stable and impactful teaching career in scarce skills subjects.
In addition, satrends.co.za offers a wide range of other bursary categories to suit your preference. Click on the links below to access other kinds of bursaries.
Universities in South Africa Bursaries Available for 2026
Government Departments Bursaries Available for 2026
Field of Studies Specified Bursaries Available for 2026
Keep reading to find out more about the eligibility requirements, universities offering SAMSTIP, fields of study covered, application process, and closing dates for the SAMSTIP Bursary Programme 2026/2027.
About Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa (ISASA)
The Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa (ISASA) is a well-established non-profit organisation and the largest, oldest, and most inclusive independent schools association in Southern Africa. ISASA represents more than 800 independent schools across South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Angola, and Mozambique, collectively educating over 180,000 learners.
ISASA schools reflect a broad spectrum of educational levels, religious backgrounds, socio-economic contexts, and cultural communities. The organisation is committed to promoting quality, accessible education and creating opportunities for all learners to succeed, regardless of background.
About the SAMSTIP Bursary Programme 2026/2027
The Southern African Mathematics and Science Teacher Intern Programme (SAMSTIP) is an ISASA-led initiative developed in partnership with Investec Bank and the Department of Basic Education. The programme tackles the root cause of South Africa’s Mathematics and Science skills shortage by training and supporting future teachers in these high-demand subjects.
SAMSTIP focuses on:
- Increasing the number of qualified Mathematics and Science teachers
- Supporting students from disadvantaged communities
- Improving pass rates in Mathematics and Science
- Providing practical teaching experience through ISASA member schools
Fields Covered by the SAMSTIP Bursary
ISASA invites eligible students to apply for the SAMSTIP Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year. The bursary supports teaching studies at UNISA through the following qualifications:
- B.Ed. (Senior Phase and FET only) – specialising in:
-
- Mathematics
- Physical Science
- Life Sciences or Natural Sciences
- PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) – specialising in:
- Mathematics
- Physical Science
- Life Sciences or Natural Sciences
All studies are completed via UNISA’s open distance learning platform.
SAMSTIP Bursary Coverage and Benefits
The SAMSTIP bursary offers comprehensive financial and academic support, including:
Financial Coverage
- Full UNISA tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- A monthly stipend
- Transport and accommodation allowance
Additional Benefits
- Teaching practice at ISASA member schools
- Access to teaching and learning resources and educational technology
- Ongoing mentorship from experienced teachers
- Participation in an academic enrichment programme
Service Contract and Selection Process
Upon graduation, bursary recipients are required to teach at a public school designated as a Professional Development Host School. The length of the teaching commitment will be equal to the duration of bursary funding received.
Selection Process Includes:
- Shortlisting of candidates
- Entrance assessment (where applicable)
- Internal interview with the SAMSTIP team
- Interview with a potential host school
- Provisional placement at a host school
- Application to UNISA (applications usually open August–September)
- Final selection and formal notification
Successful candidates will be notified in writing and instructed when to report for duty.
Eligibility Requirements for SAMSTIP Bursary Application 2026/2027
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria to be considered:
- Must be a South African citizen (born in South Africa)
- Must be under 30 years of age
- Must intend to study B.Ed. (Senior & FET) or PGCE
- Must specialise in Mathematics and/or Science subjects
- Must study through UNISA via open distance learning
- B.Ed. applicants: currently in Matric or have completed Matric
- PGCE applicants: must have completed a relevant undergraduate qualification
- Must have passed Mathematics and Life Science / Physical Science / Natural Science
(Mathematical Literacy is not accepted) - Must be willing to be placed at a public school anywhere in South Africa
Failure to meet any requirement will result in disqualification.
How to Apply for the SAMSTIP Bursary 2026/2027
Applications must be submitted online via the official SAMSTIP application platform.
Applicants are required to:
- Register an account
- Log in and complete the online application form
If you experience difficulties during the application process, you are advised to visit the SAMSTIP Help Centre for assistance.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must upload clear certified copies of the following documents:
- South African ID document
- Matric certificate
- Full academic transcript (on official tertiary letterhead)
- Degree or diploma certificate (for PGCE applicants)
Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
SAMSTIP Bursary Closing Date 2026/2027
Applications for the SAMSTIP Bursary Programme for 2026 are now CLOSED.
Contact Details of SAMSTIP (Southern African Mathematics and Science Teacher Intern Programme) Bursary
For further information or queries related to the SAMSTIP bursary, contact ISASA directly:
Email: lesibal@isasa.org
