The City of Cape Town Bursary programme is now accepting applications for the 2027 academic year. The bursary helps eligible students cover registration, tuition and examination costs at approved South African institutions. Applications close on 17 August 2026, and late submissions will not be considered.
If you are a Cape Town resident studying towards a scarce skills qualification, this bursary could help you fund your studies in 2027.
What is the City of Cape Town Bursary?
The City of Cape Town Bursary is an external financial support programme that assists qualifying students with higher education costs. The City awards bursaries to students pursuing qualifications in fields identified as scarce skills.
The funding is available to students enrolled for full-time study at accredited South African higher education institutions, including TVET colleges.
The bursary contributes towards:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Examination fees
Successful applicants will be contacted directly by the City of Cape Town.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the City of Cape Town Bursary 2027, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a resident of Cape Town.
- Be registered or accepted for full-time study.
- Study at an accredited South African university or TVET college.
- Study in a qualification identified by the City as a scarce skill.
- Not receive funding from another financial aid programme, such as NSFAS.
- Submit all required supporting documents before the closing date.
In addition, Grade 12 learners must achieve at least a 65% average in their mid-year or final results.
Current tertiary students must submit their academic transcripts for all completed years of study.
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Scarce Skills Requirement
The City only funds qualifications in predetermined scarce skills fields. Therefore, applicants should ensure their intended qualification matches the advertised scarce skills before applying.
If your qualification does not fall within the approved fields, your application may not be considered.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit a completed application form together with all required supporting documents.
These include:
- Registration letter or provisional acceptance letter from an approved institution.
- Certified copy of your South African ID (not older than three months).
- Proof of residence.
- Certified copy of your Grade 12 results.
- Copy of your matric certificate, if applicable.
- Academic transcripts for current tertiary students.
- Recommendations from teachers, mentors or peers, where available.
- Awards and certificates.
- Examples of work completed in your chosen field, if applicable.
Ensure every document is clear and complete before submission. Missing documents could delay or affect your application.
How to Apply for the City of Cape Town Bursary
Applying is straightforward if you follow the correct process.
Step 1: Get the Application Form
Download the External Bursary Application Form or collect a printed copy from one of the following City facilities:
- Bellville Walk-in Centre
- Brackenfell Walk-in Centre
- Cape Town HR Employment Counter (Concourse Level, Civic Centre)
- Parow Walk-in Centre
- Plumstead Walk-in Centre
- Strand Walk-in Centre
- Selected City libraries
External Bursary Application Form
Step 2: Complete and Submit Your Application
After completing the form, submit it together with all supporting documents by either:
- Delivering it to one of the listed City facilities.
- Emailing it to external.bursaries@capetown.gov.za.
Check every document before submitting your application. Incomplete applications may not be considered.
Step 3: Wait for Feedback
The City will contact successful applicants directly.
However, applications will not receive written acknowledgement after submission.
If you do not hear from the City by 15 January 2027, you should accept that your application was unsuccessful.
Important Dates
Keep these deadlines in mind:
- Applications open: 2026
- Closing date: 17 August 2026
- Expected feedback deadline: 15 January 2027
Submit your application early to avoid last-minute problems.
Important Things to Remember
Before submitting your application, remember the following:
- Late applications will not be accepted.
- Copies of supporting documents will not be returned.
- The City does not acknowledge receipt of applications.
- Applicants receiving other financial assistance, including NSFAS, are not eligible.
- Only complete applications submitted before the deadline will be considered.
City of Cape Town Bursary Contact Details
If you need more information, contact the City using the details below:
Email: external.bursaries@capetown.gov.za
Telephone:
- 0860 103 089
- 021 400 3434 (Option 6)
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the City of Cape Town Bursary close?
Applications close on 17 August 2026. Late applications will not be accepted.
Who qualifies for the bursary?
The bursary is available to Cape Town residents studying full-time in approved scarce skills programmes at accredited South African institutions.
Can NSFAS-funded students apply?
No. Applicants must not receive financial assistance from NSFAS or another bursary programme.
When will successful applicants be notified?
Successful applicants will be contacted by the City. If you receive no response by 15 January 2027, your application was unsuccessful.
The City of Cape Town Bursary 2027 offers valuable financial support for students pursuing scarce skills qualifications. If you meet the eligibility requirements, prepare your documents early and submit your application before 17 August 2026. A complete and timely application gives you the best chance of being considered for funding.
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