The best time to secure first-year funding is during your Matric year, not after you get your results. Most major bursaries for first-year students close months before final exams. Here is a practical plan.
Grade 11: lay the groundwork
- Work hard on your Grade 11 final exams. Many bursaries shortlist using these marks.
- Decide on two or three possible careers and the subjects and marks they require.
- Get your ID or smart ID card if you do not have one yet.
January to March of Matric
- Apply to universities and colleges. Many bursaries require provisional acceptance.
- Scan your documents: ID, Grade 11 report and parents’ IDs. See the documents checklist.
- Draft a motivation letter you can adapt. See our motivation letter guide.
- Start your shortlist using the bursaries open to Matric learners.
April to September: peak application season
This is when many large engineering, mining, finance and IT bursaries open and close. Check the closing dates calendar every week and submit early. Keep a list of everything you have applied for, with reference numbers.
September to November: NSFAS and late openers
- Apply for NSFAS if your household income is R350,000 or less a year.
- Look for municipal and provincial bursaries, which often open later in the year.
- Prepare for interviews or assessments if you are shortlisted.
After your results
If you are still unfunded when results come out, do not give up. Some bursaries open after the results are released, universities have their own financial aid and merit awards, and many companies fund students from second year onwards. A strong first year can open doors to these bursaries.