Top 15 Bursaries to Consider as a Student in South Africa
South Africa has a variety of bursaries and scholarships available for students pursuing higher education. Whether you’re interested in studying engineering, healthcare, business, or social sciences, there are several funding opportunities that can ease the financial burden of your studies. Here are 15 top bursaries to consider as a student in South Africa.
1. National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)
The NSFAS is one of the most well-known funding options for South African students. It provides financial assistance to students from disadvantaged backgrounds pursuing undergraduate studies at public universities and TVET colleges. NSFAS covers tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses, depending on the student’s financial need.
Eligibility: South African citizens from households with an income of R350,000 or less annually.
Website: www.nsfas.org.za
2. Department of Basic Education (DBE) Bursary
The DBE offers bursaries for students pursuing teaching degrees. This is an excellent option for students who wish to become teachers in South Africa. The bursary covers tuition fees, books, accommodation, and a monthly stipend.
Eligibility: South African citizens with a strong academic record and a passion for teaching.
Website: www.education.gov.za
3. Stellenbosch University Bursary
Stellenbosch University offers a range of bursaries for South African students based on academic performance, financial need, and specific fields of study. The university’s financial aid office provides tailored assistance to students in need.
Eligibility: South African students with an excellent academic record and financial need.
Website: www.sun.ac.za
4. South African Reserve Bank (SARB) Bursary
The South African Reserve Bank offers bursaries to students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies in economics, finance, and related fields. This prestigious bursary includes tuition, accommodation, and a monthly allowance.
Eligibility: South African citizens with strong academic performance in economics or finance.
Website: www.resbank.co.za
5. Sasol Bursary Program
Sasol, a global integrated chemicals and energy company, offers bursaries to students pursuing studies in engineering, science, and other related fields. Sasol bursaries cover tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly stipend.
Eligibility: South African students pursuing a degree in engineering, science, or other technical fields.
Website: www.sasolbursaries.com
6. Bankseta Bursary
The Banking Sector Education and Training Authority (Bankseta) offers bursaries to students studying financial services, banking, and related fields. The Bankseta bursary includes funding for tuition, textbooks, and other study materials.
Eligibility: South African students pursuing undergraduate studies in banking and finance.
Website: www.bankseta.org.za
7. The South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) Bursary
SAICA offers a range of bursaries for students pursuing careers as Chartered Accountants. The bursaries cover tuition, accommodation, and living expenses. Students must commit to working for an accredited training office after graduation.
Eligibility: South African students studying towards a BCom Accounting or equivalent qualification.
Website: www.saica.co.za
8. Anglo American Bursary Scheme
Anglo American, one of the world’s largest mining companies, offers bursaries to South African students studying engineering, mining, metallurgy, and related fields. Bursaries cover tuition, accommodation, meals, and a monthly allowance.
Eligibility: South African students pursuing qualifications in mining, engineering, and related fields.
Website: www.angloamerican.com
9. Vodacom Foundation Bursary
The Vodacom Foundation offers bursaries to South African students in the fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). This bursary covers tuition fees, accommodation, and other study-related expenses.
Eligibility: South African students pursuing STEM degrees.
Website: www.vodacom.co.za
10. TotalEnergies Bursary
TotalEnergies offers bursaries to South African students pursuing degrees in engineering, geology, and other technical fields. The bursary covers tuition, textbooks, and accommodation.
Eligibility: South African students studying engineering, geology, and related fields.
Website: www.totalenergies.com
11. BMW South Africa Bursary
BMW South Africa offers bursaries for students in various fields, including mechanical and electrical engineering. The bursary includes tuition, accommodation, and a monthly stipend.
Eligibility: South African students pursuing engineering and other technical qualifications.
Website: www.bmw.co.za
12. The Harry Oppenheimer Fellowship
The Harry Oppenheimer Fellowship is awarded to students in the fields of law, science, and technology. This prestigious fellowship is awarded to exceptional students who demonstrate leadership and excellence in their respective fields.
Eligibility: South African students with outstanding academic achievements in law, science, and technology.
Website: www.ohf.org.za
13. The National Research Foundation (NRF) Bursary
The NRF offers a wide range of postgraduate bursaries to South African students. These bursaries cover various fields of study, including science, engineering, humanities, and social sciences.
Eligibility: South African citizens pursuing postgraduate studies.
Website: www.nrf.ac.za
14. The MQA Bursary
The Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) offers bursaries for students pursuing studies in mining engineering, geology, metallurgy, and other mining-related fields. The bursary includes funding for tuition, accommodation, and travel expenses.
Eligibility: South African students studying mining-related qualifications.
Website: www.mqa.org.za
15. Nelson Mandela University Bursaries
Nelson Mandela University offers a wide range of bursaries to South African students based on academic merit and financial need. The university provides financial assistance to students in various fields of study, including science, technology, business, and the humanities.
Eligibility: South African students with academic excellence and financial need.
Website: www.mandela.ac.za
As a South African student, there are numerous bursary opportunities that can help fund your studies, whether you’re pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate degrees. It’s essential to research the eligibility requirements and deadlines for each bursary and apply early. Taking advantage of these funding options will not only reduce your financial burden but also open doors to exciting career opportunities after graduation.