Nursing Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026

Find on this page a comprehensive list of Nursing bursaries in South Africa available for 2026. Are you a passionate South African student dreaming of a career in healthcare? If you aspire to become a registered nurse, midwife, or specialized healthcare professional but face financial constraints, applying for a Nursing bursary for the 2026/2027 academic year could be your gateway to success. With hospitals, clinics, private practices, and community health services constantly in need of skilled nurses, the demand for qualified healthcare professionals in South Africa continues to grow. Fortunately, numerous government departments, healthcare foundations, and private institutions are offering Nursing bursaries in 2026, providing critical financial support to deserving students committed to advancing their education in this vital field.

What Is Nursing?

Nursing is a healthcare profession dedicated to promoting health, preventing illness, and providing compassionate care to patients across diverse settings. Nurses play a critical role in patient recovery, health education, and public health initiatives. Beyond clinical care, nursing fosters skills in leadership, communication, empathy, and problem-solving, making it one of the most respected and essential professions in South Africa and globally.

Major Fields of Nursing Studies

In South Africa, Nursing studies include a variety of specializations, such as:

General Nursing: Comprehensive training in patient care, hospital procedures, and clinical skills.
Midwifery: Focus on maternal and neonatal care during pregnancy, birth, and postpartum.
Psychiatric Nursing: Specialization in mental health care and counseling.
Community Health Nursing: Providing healthcare services, education, and outreach in communities.
Critical Care Nursing: Focused training for intensive care units and emergency care.
Nursing Education and Research: Preparing professionals to teach and contribute to healthcare research.

Career Opportunities in Nursing in South Africa

Graduates in Nursing can pursue diverse career paths within the healthcare sector, including:

Registered Nurse or Enrolled Nurse
Midwife or Neonatal Nurse
Psychiatric Nurse
Critical Care or Emergency Nurse
Community Health Practitioner
Nurse Educator or Lecturer
Healthcare Administrator or Policy Advisor

The growing healthcare industry in South Africa ensures local and international employment opportunities, making Nursing a stable and rewarding career choice.

Why Apply for Nursing Bursaries in 2026?

Pursuing formal Nursing education can be costly, with expenses including tuition fees, medical equipment, uniforms, accommodation, and study materials. Luckily, many government programs, hospitals, private foundations, and educational institutions are offering Nursing bursaries in South Africa for 2026/2027. These bursaries often cover tuition fees, study materials, accommodation, and sometimes a monthly stipend, while also providing mentorship and exposure to practical healthcare settings.

Applying for a Nursing bursary not only relieves financial pressure but also helps students gain essential clinical experience and professional networks, increasing their chances of building a successful career in the healthcare industry.

List of Nursing Bursaries in South Africa Available for 2026

Below, you will find a detailed list of Nursing bursaries in South Africa for 2026, provided by reputable hospitals, government departments, and foundations supporting healthcare education. Each listing includes eligibility criteria, fields of study covered, application procedures, and deadlines to help you plan your future in Nursing.

Black Mountain Study Trust Bursary

Bridgestone Bursary

Caroline Mack Foundation Bursary

City of Cape Town Bursary

Compensation Fund Bursary

DENOSA Bursary

Department of Correctional Services Bursary

Education Empowerment and Development Fund (EEDF) Bursary

Exxaro Bursary

Gauteng College of Nursing Bursary

Globeleq Scholarships

ISFAP Bursary