General Postgraduate Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026

Find on this page a List of General Postgraduate Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026. Are you a dedicated South African student looking to advance your education with a Master’s or Doctoral degree but facing financial challenges? If so, applying for a postgraduate bursary for the 2026/2027 academic year could be your gateway to unlocking academic and professional opportunities in your chosen field. With universities, research institutes, and organizations seeking highly skilled graduates across various disciplines, the demand for postgraduate-trained professionals continues to grow. Fortunately, many institutions, foundations, and government bodies are offering General Postgraduate Bursaries in South Africa for 2026, providing crucial financial support to help you focus on your studies and achieve your career goals.

What Are General Postgraduate Bursaries?

General Postgraduate Bursaries are financial awards designed to support students pursuing advanced degrees, including Master’s and Doctoral programs. These bursaries can cover tuition fees, research costs, accommodation, and living expenses, allowing students to fully concentrate on their studies, research projects, and academic development. Beyond financial aid, many bursaries provide mentorship, networking opportunities, and exposure to professional and academic communities.

Major Fields Covered by Postgraduate Studies

In South Africa, General Postgraduate Bursaries span a wide range of disciplines, including:

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM): Supporting research, innovation, and development in critical technological fields.
Health and Medical Sciences: Covering nursing, public health, medicine, and biomedical research.
Education and Social Sciences: Fostering expertise in teaching, policy research, and social development.
Arts, Humanities, and Culture: Promoting creative research and preservation of cultural heritage.
Business, Management, and Economics: Equipping graduates with skills for leadership, entrepreneurship, and organizational development.

Career Opportunities After Postgraduate Studies in South Africa

Completing a postgraduate degree opens doors to diverse career paths in academia, research, industry, and public service, including:

University Lecturer or Researcher
Specialist Consultant in Science, Engineering, or Health
Policy Analyst or Government Advisor
Entrepreneur or Business Strategist
Professional Researcher in Think Tanks or NGOs
Cultural and Creative Industry Specialist

With growing investment in research and development, skilled postgraduate graduates have opportunities to make an impact both locally and internationally.

Why Apply for Postgraduate Bursaries in 2026?

Pursuing a postgraduate degree often involves significant financial investment, including tuition fees, research expenses, accommodation, and study materials. Applying for a General Postgraduate Bursary in 2026 can ease these financial pressures, allowing you to focus on your academic and professional growth. Many bursaries also offer mentorship, career guidance, and access to research networks, enhancing your chances of excelling in your chosen field.

List of General Postgraduate Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026

Below, you will find a comprehensive list of General Postgraduate Bursaries in South Africa for 2026, provided by reputable universities, government agencies, research councils, and private organizations. Each listing includes details on eligibility, fields of study, application procedures, and deadlines to help you plan and secure funding for your postgraduate journey.

AbbVie and SASA Scholarship

Agricultural Research Council (ARC) Bursary

AMSOL Bursary

AWS Skills Development Bursary

Baker Hughes Bursary

BANKSETA / UKZN Outstanding Student Debt Fund

Canon Collins Trust and University of London Scholarships for Distance Learning

Cecil Renaud International Scholarship

CPGR Bursary

Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) Bursary

Environmental Resources Management (ERM) Bursary

FirstRand International Postgraduate Scholarships