Thousands of bursaries are awarded in South Africa every year, yet many go to the same small group of students who apply early, apply widely and follow instructions exactly. This guide walks you through the process so you can be one of them.
1. Start early (Grade 11 is not too soon)
Most large company bursaries for first-year students open between February and June and close between April and September of your Matric year. Some use your Grade 11 final results to shortlist, so those marks matter more than many learners realise. If you are already at university, the busiest application period is usually July to October for the following academic year.
2. Decide what you want to study, then search by field
Bursaries are tied to fields of study, because companies and government fund the skills they need. Choose your course first, then use our bursary directory to filter by field, study level and province. Make a shortlist of every bursary you qualify for, not just the famous ones. Smaller, local and industry bursaries often receive far fewer applications.
3. Check the requirements line by line
Before you start an application, confirm that you meet every minimum requirement. The most common ones are:
- South African citizenship (some bursaries also accept permanent residents)
- Minimum marks, often for Mathematics, Physical Science and English
- Your year of study (some fund first-years, others only from second year)
- Where you live, for municipal and community bursaries
- Household income limits for need-based bursaries
- Studying at a public or accredited institution
If you do not meet a hard requirement, your application will usually be rejected automatically, so spend your time on bursaries you qualify for.
4. Prepare your documents once, then reuse them
Almost every bursary asks for the same core documents. Get them ready before applications open and keep clear scans on your phone or in cloud storage. See our bursary documents checklist for the full list, including when you need certified copies.
5. Write a strong motivation
Many bursaries ask you to explain why you chose your field, what you want to achieve and why you need funding. A clear, honest and specific motivation can set you apart from applicants with similar marks. Our motivation letter guide shows you how to structure one.
6. Apply through the official channel only
Every listing on StudentBursaries.co.za links to the provider’s official application page, form or email address. Apply there directly. Genuine bursaries never charge an application fee, and you should never pay anyone to “guarantee” you a bursary. Read our guide on how to spot bursary scams.
7. Submit before the closing date (not on it)
Online portals slow down on closing days, and late applications are almost never accepted. Aim to submit at least a week early. Take a screenshot or save the confirmation email as proof that you applied.
8. Prepare for the next steps
Shortlisted candidates may be asked to write an online assessment, attend an interview or join a selection day. Many providers say that if you have not heard back within a set time after the closing date, you should treat your application as unsuccessful. Keep applying for other bursaries while you wait.
9. Read the contract before you sign
If you are successful, you will usually sign a bursary agreement. Check what it covers, what marks you must maintain, whether there is vacation work, and whether you must work for the funder after graduating. Our guide to work-back bursaries explains what to look for.
Quick checklist
- Make a shortlist of 10 or more bursaries you qualify for
- Note every closing date in a calendar
- Prepare and scan your documents in advance
- Write a motivation you can adapt for each application
- Apply only on official websites, and never pay to apply
- Submit early and keep proof of submission
- Apply for NSFAS too, if your household income qualifies