Bursaries
Government bursaries provide full or partial financial assistance for higher education in priority fields — engineering, health sciences, education, ICT, and public administration. In 2026, national departments, provincial governments, SETAs, and parastatals have bursary windows open, with awards ranging from R30 000 to R150 000 per academic year.
Types of Bursaries Available
- Merit bursaries — awarded for academic performance, typically requiring a 65% or higher average
- Need-based bursaries — awarded based on household income. NSFAS is the largest, but many departments run their own schemes
Key funders in 2026 include NSFAS, the National Skills Fund (NSF), departmental bursaries from Health, Education, Agriculture, and Public Works, and municipal bursaries from metros including Johannesburg, Cape Town, and eThekwini.
When Do Bursaries Open?
Most government bursary applications open January to March for the academic year ahead. Some departments open a second window mid-year. You will typically need a certified ID, Matric certificate, academic transcripts, proof of university registration or acceptance, and a motivation letter.
How to Apply
Use the Nasi Ispani Cover Letter Generator to draft a strong motivation letter tailored to each bursary. Create a free account to save bursary listings and get alerts before closing dates. Browse all current opportunities below — late applications are not accepted.
