Bursaries Closing in February 2026

If you still need financial support for your studies, this is your warning: many major bursaries close in February 2026, and once the deadline passes, there are no extensions.

Confirmed List of Bursaries Closing in February 2026

Below is a carefully compiled list of South African bursaries closing in February 2026, including government, private sector, and industry-funded opportunities. Whether you’re studying at a university, TVET college, or pursuing postgraduate studies, make sure you apply before the closing dates listed.

Alfred Nzo District Municipality Bursary

Closing date: 6 February 2026

The Alfred Nzo District Municipality Bursary is aimed at students residing within the Alfred Nzo District in the Eastern Cape. The bursary typically supports studies in scarce and critical skills aligned with municipal needs, such as engineering, finance, environmental management, and public administration.

This bursary usually covers tuition fees and may also include accommodation and study-related expenses. Preference is often given to students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Sorbet Academy Bursary

Closing date: 15 February 2026

The Sorbet Academy Bursary supports students who want to pursue careers in the beauty and personal care industry. Fields of study often include hairdressing, beauty therapy, and cosmetology through Sorbet Academy training programmes.

This bursary is ideal for students interested in practical, skills-based careers and entrepreneurship within the beauty sector.

KwaZulu-Natal Government Bursary

Closing date: 16 February 2026

The KwaZulu-Natal Government Bursary provides financial assistance to students who are residents of KwaZulu-Natal. It is generally awarded for studies in priority and scarce skills fields that align with provincial government needs.

Applicants are often required to commit to a work-back agreement, meaning they will work for the provincial government after completing their studies.

SASLHA Bursary

Closing date: 16 February 2026

The South African Speech-Language-Hearing Association (SASLHA) Bursary is aimed at students studying speech-language therapy or audiology at recognised South African universities.

This bursary supports the development of professionals in the healthcare and allied health sectors, helping to address critical shortages in these fields.

FirstRand International Postgraduate Scholarships

Closing date: 19 February 2026

The FirstRand International Postgraduate Scholarships are awarded to high-achieving South African students who wish to pursue postgraduate studies abroad. Fields of study often align with economics, finance, development, and related disciplines.

These prestigious scholarships usually cover tuition, accommodation, travel costs, and living expenses, making them highly competitive.

Avemel Group Bursary

Closing date: 20 February 2026

The Avemel Group Bursary supports students studying in fields related to the company’s operations, which may include engineering, finance, supply chain management, and information technology.

The bursary is generally aimed at academically strong students who demonstrate financial need.

Armscor Bursary

Closing date: 26 February 2026

The Armscor Bursary is offered by the Armaments Corporation of South Africa and focuses on engineering, science, and technology-related qualifications.

Successful applicants are often required to enter into a work-back agreement, contributing their skills to the defence and security sector after graduation.

SAAFoST Aubrey Parsons Study Grant

Closing date: 27 February 2026

This study grant is offered by the South African Association for Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST). It is aimed at students studying food science, food technology, or related fields.

The grant supports academic excellence and professional development within the food science industry.

SAAFoST Brian Koeppen Memorial Scholarship

Closing date: 27 February 2026

Also offered by SAAFoST, the Brian Koeppen Memorial Scholarship is awarded to postgraduate students in food science and technology.

The scholarship honours academic achievement and contributes to advancing research and innovation in the food sector.

Bheki Mlangeni Memorial Scholarship

Closing date: 28 February 2026

The Bheki Mlangeni Memorial Scholarship is awarded to students pursuing postgraduate studies in journalism and media-related fields.

It is aimed at supporting transformation and excellence within South African media and communications.

Gauteng City-Region Academy (GCRA) Bursary

Closing date: 28 February 2026

The GCRA Bursary supports students who are residents of Gauteng and studying at approved institutions. The bursary is available for undergraduate and postgraduate studies in various fields.

Funding may cover tuition, accommodation, and other study-related costs, depending on the student’s financial need.

Poliomyelitis Research Foundation Bursaries

Closing date: 28 February 2026

The Poliomyelitis Research Foundation (PRF) offers bursaries to honours, master’s, and doctoral students conducting research in health and medical sciences.

These bursaries support research that contributes to improving health outcomes in South Africa.

Important Application Tips

• Apply before the closing date — late applications are not accepted.
• Prepare certified copies of your ID, academic records, and proof of residence.
• Write a clear and honest motivation letter.
• Apply for multiple bursaries to increase your chances of success.

Final Reminder

If you are planning to study in 2026 and still need funding, do not delay. February deadlines approach quickly, and competition is high. Check each bursary’s official application guidelines carefully and submit your application as early as possible.

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