The Motsepe Foundation Bursary is open for eligible South African students seeking undergraduate funding for 2027. The programme supports studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, Accounting, Mathematics and selected Humanities fields.
Applications close on 16 October 2026. Students should therefore prepare their documents and apply before the deadline.
The bursary aims to reduce the financial barriers faced by students entering higher education. It can cover several major study-related costs, including tuition, accommodation, learning materials and meals.
Motsepe Foundation Bursary 2027: What Does It Cover?
The bursary provides broad financial support for successful applicants. The listed funding package includes several costs linked to university study.
According to the available programme information, the bursary can cover:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- University-accredited accommodation
- Books and stationery
- A laptop
- Meal allowance
- Tutor allowance
- Mental wellness support
This means the programme can provide support beyond tuition fees. Students can also receive assistance with essential academic and living costs.
Applicants should still check the official bursary information before submitting their applications. Funding conditions can vary according to the programme requirements.
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Fields of Study Supported by the Motsepe Foundation Bursary
The 2027 bursary focuses mainly on STEAM-related undergraduate studies. However, selected Humanities programmes are also included.
Supported fields include:
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Accounting
- Mathematics
- Humanities
- Music
- LLB
The programme is intended for students pursuing undergraduate degree qualifications at recognised tertiary institutions in South Africa.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the programme’s minimum requirements before applying.
The published requirements state that applicants must:
- Be currently in Matric or have completed Matric.
- Plan to study towards an eligible undergraduate degree.
- Study at a recognised South African tertiary institution.
- Have achieved a minimum average of 70%.
- Calculate the average without Life Orientation and Home Language.
- Demonstrate financial need.
- Reside within one of the specified geographic areas.
The geographical requirement is important. The bursary does not appear to be open to applicants from every area in South Africa.
Which Areas Are Included?
The bursary targets students from selected communities across South Africa.
The listed areas include:
Limpopo
- Sekhukhune
- Capricorn
- Vhembe
- Mopani
Free State
- Thabo Mofutsanyana
- Mangaung
KwaZulu-Natal
- Umgungundlovu
- Ethekwini
- King Cetshwayo
Eastern Cape
- OR Tambo
- Nelson Mandela Bay
- Buffalo City
Mpumalanga
- Bushbuckridge
- Mbombela
- Kwamhlanga
North West
- Mmakau
- Madibeng
- Bojanala
Gauteng
- Tshwane
- Ekurhuleni
- Johannesburg
- Sedibeng
Western Cape
- Khayelitsha
- Mitchells Plain
Northern Cape
- John Taole
- Frances Baard
Applicants should confirm their location against the official application requirements.
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How to Apply for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary
Eligible students should use the official Motsepe Foundation application process.
Before applying, applicants should prepare supporting information and documents. These may include proof of residence and a testimonial letter from an appropriate community leader.
Applicants should also check the official application platform for the latest document requirements. The Foundation remains the final authority on eligibility and supporting documentation.
The official Motsepe Foundation website currently confirms that 2027 STEAM Undergraduate Bursary applications are open.
Apply through the Motsepe Foundation official website
Important Application Warning
Students should be careful when applying for bursaries online.
The Motsepe Foundation has warned applicants about fraudulent bursary information. It also advises applicants not to pay anyone who claims they can guarantee a bursary.
Use official Foundation channels when checking application information. Do not provide money to unofficial agents.
When Does the Motsepe Foundation Bursary Close?
The closing date is 16 October 2026.
Applicants should submit their applications before the deadline. Waiting until the final day can create problems if documents are missing or the application platform experiences issues.
Students should also keep copies of their submitted information for their records.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Motsepe Foundation Bursary fully funded?
The bursary provides extensive financial support. Listed costs include registration, tuition, accommodation, books, stationery, a laptop, meals and tutoring. Mental wellness support is also included.
What average do I need for the bursary?
Applicants need a minimum average of 70% for core subjects. Life Orientation and Home Language are excluded from this calculation.
What can I study with the bursary?
The programme supports Science, Technology, Engineering, Accounting and Mathematics. Selected Humanities fields, including Music and LLB, are also supported.
