SAMRO Bursary Application for 2026/2027

Detailed guide on SAMRO Bursary Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African music student with exceptional talent and a passion for composition, performance, or music education? The Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) Bursary 2026/2027 is one of the most prestigious bursary opportunities available for young musicians pursuing higher education in music. For decades, SAMRO has been committed to nurturing the next generation of music professionals by providing financial support to students studying at recognized South African universities and tertiary institutions.

The SAMRO Bursary Programme is awarded to students who display musical excellence, academic dedication, and a commitment to advancing the arts, with a focus on disciplines such as music performance, composition, ethnomusicology, and music education. Beyond financial assistance, this bursary plays a vital role in uplifting South Africa’s music industry by ensuring that talented young artists have access to the resources and training they need to thrive locally and globally.

By applying for the SAMRO Bursary 2026/2027, students not only receive financial relief for tuition and study-related expenses but also join a legacy of artists supported by one of the most influential organizations in the South African music industry.

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 discover more about eligibility requirements, supported fields of study, the application process, and important closing dates for the SAMRO Bursary 2026/2027.

About Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO)

The Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO) was founded in 1961 to protect the intellectual property rights of musicians. Today, SAMRO represents over 12 000 musicians across Southern Africa as a registered, not-for-profit company.

Through the SAMRO Foundation, the organisation also supports music education, corporate social investment, and arts development. Over the past 50 years, SAMRO has invested more than R100 million in bursaries, scholarships, and commissions to grow South Africa’s cultural and musical heritage.

In 2017 alone, SAMRO awarded over R1 million in bursaries and scholarships to music students, making it one of the country’s biggest supporters of young musical talent.

About SAMRO Bursary Programme 2026/2027

Field of Study: Bursaries are available for students majoring in Music towards a diploma or degree (from second year onwards).

Value: Each bursary is worth R12 000, covering tuition fees only.

Eligibility Criteria for SAMRO Bursary Application 2026/2027

Who Can Apply?

To apply, you must:

Be a citizen of South Africa, Swaziland, Botswana, or Lesotho
Have completed Matric
Be registered at a recognised South African university
Be a full-time student in your:
- 2nd year
- 3rd year
- 4th year
- Honours
- Master’s programme

Not eligible:

1st-year university students
Doctoral students
Bridging/foundation programme students
Students at private institutions (e.g. AFDA, COPA, City Varsity, Academy for Sound Engineering)
Students specialising in Music Therapy or Musical Theatre

How To Apply for SAMRO Bursary 2026/2027

Applications must be submitted online at: Click here to access the SAMRO Music Bursaries Application Form

Click the Application Form tab on the left.

Required Supporting Documents (uploaded online):

Certified copy of your ID document
Proof of university registration (on official letterhead)
Latest academic record or transcript (on official letterhead)
Two reference letters from current university lecturers (following SAMRO guidelines)
Master’s students:
- Thesis synopsis (5–8 pages max)
- Reference letter from supervisor

Note: All documents and reference letters must be in English.

Closing Date for SAMRO Bursary Application 2026/2027

29 March

Applications received after this date will not be considered.

Contact Details of Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO)

For any queries, contact SAMRO:

Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO)

Tel: 011 712 8417 / 011 712 8444

Email: samrofoundation@samro.org.za