Funding your education in South Africa is tough, especially for those from low to middle-income homes; fees keep rising annually, cost of accommodation for students and study materials has seen a major increase in recent times. However, bursaries can help.
This ultimate guide on bursaries in South Africa covers everything you need for 2025 bursaries, from application, eligibility, opening or closing dates for these bursaries, and more.
Also, February 2025, the academic year, has just begun; this is a perfect time to secure funding for your education this year.
Use our Bursary Finder to start Now.
What Are Bursaries and Why Do They Matter in South Africa?
So, bursaries are financial awards given to qualified students that cover tuition, books, and sometimes living costs. Usually, no repayment is needed. Unlike loans, most bursaries are free once you meet the terms.
Bursary providers have terms and conditions for applicants, and those who eventually get this bursary must sign and agree to those terms before taking the bursary package; popular of these terms is the work-back agreement where companies agree with students to work with them after graduation whilst on the company’s bursary support throughout the school.
Again, some bursary providers may discontinue the support if the student does not meet up or keep a certain level of academic performance.
These terms and conditions are made available even before you apply for the bursaries; some are also spelled out to students selected for bursaries.
More importantly, with high unemployment and education costs, bursaries are an important support system for matriculants and undergrads hence making it very competitive to get a bursary in South Africa.
In 2024 alone, over 500,000 students applied for NSFAS Bursary; this is huge.
Types of Bursaries Available in South Africa for 2025
In South Africa, several institutions offer bursaries annually; some of these institutions are government-owned, while the majority of them are private companies and organizations that are passionate about supporting students in career fields that are related to their institution. To make understanding easier, I will classify this institution
- Government Bursaries
- Corporate Bursaries
- University Bursaries
- Private/Non-Profit:
| Types of Bursaries | Provider Example | Focus Area | Repayment |
| Government Bursaries | NSFAS | Students, covers tuition and living for low-income | No |
| Corporate Bursaries | Sasol, Vodacom | Often tied to fields like engineering or IT. | No |
| University Bursaries | UCT merit awards | UCT merit awards, specific to enrolled students | No |
| Private/Non-Profit | Canon Collins Trust | Often tied to fields like engineering or IT | No |
Who Qualifies for Bursaries in South Africa? Bursary eligibility South Africa 2025
To qualify for a bursary in South Africa, several factors are involved; there are general requirements that almost all bursary providers will want you to meet.
General criteria like Academic performance (e.g., 60%+ average), financial need, and South African citizenship are very basic; most bursary providers will ask about them.
Again, some bursary providers and institutions have specific eligibility requirements. For example, NSFAS requires a household income of R350,000/Year; some corporate bodies may require your field of study.
Some bursaries, for example, Merit-based bursaries, don’t check income
Finally, you will notice that each bursary may have different eligibility requirements. Check each bursary rule carefully; details vary.
How to Find the Right Bursary for You in 2025
Start by knowing your educational needs; consider your current educational field, for example, nursing, where you are currently located, and how urgently you need a bursary.
Once you have answers to the questions above, use our bursary finder tool and Filter by field, location, or closing date.
Again, Check our website for our bursary listings.
How to Apply for South Africa Bursaries in 2025
Before you even think of applying to a bursary program, you should be fully prepared with every detail that may be required from you so you do not get stuck along the process.
Take note of the application method; the majority of these bursaries require online applications; these are just filling forms online. However, few bursary providers require applicants to download a PDF of their bursary application form and submit filled copies to them physically in person.
Here is a general guide or checklist on applying for bursaries in South Africa.
Documents
You need to review the application requirements of the bursary you are applying for, get these documents in their required format if you upload them online, and be conscious of the bursary application closing dates since you may have to get some of these documents from other places and have some endorsed by some people.
Motivational letter
About 80% of bursary providers in South Africa will require you to write a motivational letter; this will make them understand and connect with your need for support. So, prepare to write a convincing motivational letter. Here is a step-by-step guide on writing motivational letters for bursary applications.
Submit your application
Now, you are at the final stage, submitting your application. Bursary applications are often submitted online or via posts, and the submission method will be clearly stated in the call for the application, so take note of it again. Please take note of closing dates; I advise you to submit your application on time to avoid any last-minute issues.
Avoid common mistakes
Mistakes can hinder your chances of getting bursaries, from late applications to missing forms, even wrong naming of files like PDF, images, etc. prevent you from getting a bursary, so take note.
Review our exclusive post on how to apply for bursaries in South Africa.
Bursary Deadlines for 2025, You Can’t-Miss
Remember to apply for bursaries before their deadlines; applications after deadlines are automatically rejected and not considered.
Here are some popular bursaries and their closing dates for 2025.
| Bursary Name | Closing Date |
| Funzi Lus haka Bursary Scheme | January 26, 2025 |
| NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) | December 15, 2024 |
| Shoprite Group Bursary | August 31, 2025 (typical) |
| Sasol Bursary | May 31, 2025 (typical) |
| Anglo American Bursary | July 31, 2025 (typical) |
| Gauteng City Region Academy (GCRA) Bursary | February 28, 2025 |
| Nedbank Bursary Programmer | July 31, 2025 (typical) |
| Investec Bursary | August 31, 2025 (typical) |
| HCI Foundation Bursary | October 31, 2025 (projected) |
| MultiChoice Bursary programmed | February 1, 2025 (typical) |
| South African Reserve Bank (SARB) Bursary | October 31, 2025 (typical) |
| Stellenbosch University Andrew W. Mellon Scholarship | October 31, 2025 |
| PwC Bursary (CA program me) | July 31, 2025 (typical) |
| Tiger Brands Bursary | October 31, 2025 (typical) |
| Coronation Exceptional Student Bursary | September 30, 2025 (typical) |
| Transport Education Training Authority (TETA) Bursary | August 31, 2025 (projected) |
| Assuming Khubani Mine Bursary | November 25, 2025 |
| Abzi Centenary Bursary | December 2, 2024 |
| Schneider Electric Bursary | February 15, 2025 |
| Career Wise Bursaries | No fixed date (year-round) |
You can also use the Filter by Deadline on our tool, Bursary Finder; this will display bursaries that do not have their deadlines passed.
Frequently Asked Questions About South Africa Bursaries
Can foreigners get bursaries in South Africa?
Yes, foreigners can get bursaries in South Africa, provided they meet specific eligibility criteria. Many bursary programs, such as the Mercedes-Benz Bursary, allow foreign nationals to apply if they qualify for a work visa or permit as per the Immigration Act 13, 2002. However, requirements vary by bursary, so it’s essential to check the specific program’s guidelines.
How do I get a bursary in South Africa?
To get a bursary in South Africa, follow these steps:
- Research Opportunities: Identify bursaries that match your field of study and eligibility (e.g., websites like zabursaries.co.za list options).
- Check Requirements: Ensure you meet criteria such as citizenship, academic performance, and study level.
- Prepare Documents: Gather required documents like ID, academic transcripts, and proof of financial need.
- Apply: Submit applications online or as specified (e.g., email, post). For example, the Mercedes-Benz Bursary requires an online application with supporting documents.
- Follow Up: Monitor deadlines and check application status if provided.
How many types of bursaries are there in South Africa?
There are several types of bursaries in South Africa, including:
- Merit-Based: Awarded for academic excellence (e.g., Mercedes-Benz Bursary for high achievers).
- Need-Based: For students with financial hardship.
- Field-Specific: Tied to specific studies like engineering or IT (e.g., BMW or Mercedes-Benz bursaries).
- Company-Sponsored: Offered by corporations with potential work-back agreements.
- Government-Funded: Such as NSFAS for broader access.
- University-Specific: Provided by institutions like UKZN or UNISA. Exact numbers vary, but these categories cover most offerings.
Which bursaries are open for 2025 in South Africa?
Several bursaries are open for the 2025 academic year, including:
- Mercedes-Benz Bursary 2025: For fields like engineering, IT, and business studies (applications ongoing as of October 2024).
- MultiChoice Bursary 2025: 230 bursaries for critical skills, closing January 29, 2025.
- Eskom Bursaries 2025: Closing January 29, 2025.
- City Power Joburg Bursaries 2025: Closing January 31, 2025. Check websites like zabursaries.co.za or graduates24.com for a comprehensive, updated list.
Which bursary is open now for 2024?
As of March 5, 2025, most 2024 bursary application windows have closed (e.g., Mercedes-Benz 2024 closed January 26, 2024). However, late-opening or rolling bursaries might still be available. Visit allbursaries.co.za or similar sites for any remaining 2024 opportunities, though focus is now shifting to 2025 applications.
How do you qualify for the Mercedes-Benz Bursary 2025?
To qualify for the Mercedes-Benz Bursary 2025, you must:
- Be a South African citizen (or a foreign national with a valid work visa/permit).
- Be in Grade 12 or have completed Matric with a minimum 70% average, including distinctions in Mathematics and/or Physical Science for engineering streams.
- Be enrolled or intending to enroll full-time at a recognized South African university in fields like engineering, IT, or business studies.
- Achieve a minimum 65% average in your most recent tertiary semester (if already studying).
- Not be an employee of Mercedes-Benz South Africa. Preference is given to Eastern Cape residents and first-year students.
How do I get a BMW bursary?
While specific details for a BMW bursary in 2025 aren’t provided, the general process includes:
- Visit BMW South Africa’s Website: Look for a careers or bursary section (e.g., bmw.co.za).
- Check Eligibility: Typically requires South African citizenship, strong academics (e.g., 70%+ in Matric), and study in fields like engineering or business.
- Apply Online: Submit an application with documents like ID, Matric results, and academic records.
- Monitor Deadlines: Deadlines vary annually—check BMW’s official channels or bursary aggregators like zabursaries.co.za for updates.
What is the maximum bursary you can get?
The maximum bursary amount in South Africa varies by provider. For example:
- Mercedes-Benz Bursary: Covers tuition, accommodation/transport, textbooks, digital allowances, and a stipend (exact amount unspecified).
- NSFAS: Up to R93,000 annually for university students (2024 figures, subject to adjustment).
- Private Bursaries: Can exceed R100,000 depending on costs and extras like laptops or living allowances. Check specific terms, as no universal cap exists.
Do I have to repay the bursary?
No, bursaries typically don’t require repayment unless a work-back condition applies. For instance, Mercedes-Benz may require recipients to work for them post-graduation (e.g., via the Graduate Development programmer). If this obligation isn’t met, repayment might be required. Always review the contract for specific terms.
Can I apply for multiple jobs?
Yes, you can apply for multiple bursaries or jobs, but disclose this in your applications if asked. Transparency avoids conflicts, especially if bursaries have exclusivity clauses or work-back commitments. It’s a common strategy to maximize funding chances.
What if I fail?
If you fail to meet bursary terms (e.g., academic performance), consequences vary:
- Funding Termination: Most bursaries, like Mercedes-Benz, require a minimum pass rate (e.g., 65% average).
- Repayment: Some may demand repayment if you drop out or fail repeatedly.
- Support Options: Others might offer remediation. Check the specific contract for details, as terms differ widely.
Conclusion
Bursaries should be your education financing support system. In 2025, you can choose from government, corporate, or private options.
Start with our bursary finder or explore our top bursary picks for South Africa Students In 2025.
Check out this site regularly to get the latest bursary opportunities; follow us on all our social media platforms, including our WhatsApp channel and our Facebook page, and join our mailing list, too.
Remember not to give up until you find a bursary that cushions your educational needs.
