Planning to attend college in South Africa? Discover the top bursaries available in 2026, including NSFAS and corporate options.
Which Bursary to Apply for If You Want to Attend College in South Africa
If you’re planning to enrol in college or university in South Africa, choosing the right bursary can make or break your ability to afford your studies. Below is a clear guide to top funding programmes—with eligibility, benefits, and application strategies to help you make informed decisions.
Understanding Bursaries vs Loans: What Works Best
NSFAS, the National Student Financial Aid Scheme, is the primary government bursary for undergraduate students at public institutions. It covers tuition, accommodation, food and travel allowances, and is awarded as a bursary (not a loan) for those with household income under R350 000 per year. If you’re eligible, NSFAS is often the first and best option.
Corporate bursaries—like those offered by banks or engineering firms—are competitive and field-specific but may include extra perks like internships, mentorship and employment pathways.
NSFAS: Best Option for Broad Access
Who it suits: South African citizens who qualify through the means test (income ≤ R350 000 per year), enrolling in a public university or technical college.
What’s covered: Tuition, residence, food and travel allowances (amount varies by need).
Considerations: Requires documentation and timely application.
Why apply: It’s widely available, covers full costs for eligible students, and does not require repayment if academic criteria are met.
Top Corporate and Foundation Bursaries by Field
Sasol Bursary Programme
Supports studies in engineering, chemistry, data science and other STEM fields. Offers full tuition, accommodation, living allowance, textbooks, and sometimes a computer allowance. Often includes vacation work and mentorship.
Funza Lushaka Teaching Bursary
Aimed at teacher training (BEd or PGCE). Covers all study costs and includes a monthly stipend. Requires recipients to teach in public schools after graduation.
Nedbank, Investec, ABSA and Vodacom Bursary Schemes
- Nedbank: Focuses on commerce, finance, IT.
- Investec: Offers funding for commerce, mathematics, and engineering.
- Vodacom: Targets ICT, engineering, and telecom fields.
- ABSA: Covers actuarial science, economics, and financial fields.
These corporate bursaries typically include tuition, accommodation, book allowances, stipends, and may require working for the company post-graduation.
Motsepe Foundation and Allan Gray Orbis
- Motsepe Foundation: Offers full funding across multiple disciplines.
- Allan Gray Orbis: Targets entrepreneurial students with leadership potential. Includes mentoring and leadership development.
How to Choose the Right Bursary
Step 1: Identify Your Field of Study
STEM, finance, education, entrepreneurism, environmental sciences—match your field to the bursaries available.
Step 2: Confirm Eligibility
Most bursaries require South African citizenship, strong academic results, and proof of financial need. Some also evaluate leadership skills and community involvement.
Step 3: Check the Coverage
Review what each bursary includes: tuition, books, accommodation, stipends, and extras like laptops or mentorship.
Step 4: Be Aware of Post-Study Conditions
Some bursaries require you to work for the sponsoring organisation after graduation. NSFAS does not require repayment unless academic progress is not maintained.
Key Bursaries Summary Table
| Bursary Programme | Fields Covered | Coverage | Work Obligations |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSFAS | All undergraduate fields (public) | Tuition, accommodation, food, travel | No repayment if eligible |
| Sasol Bursary | STEM fields | Tuition, books, laptop, allowance, internship | Internship or work-back clause |
| Funza Lushaka | Education (BEd, PGCE) | Full costs plus stipend | Teach in public school |
| Nedbank / Investec / ABSA | Commerce, IT, Finance | Full academic coverage, mentoring | Work-back agreement |
| Allan Gray Orbis | Entrepreneurship-focused | Tuition, accommodation, mentorship | None mandatory |
| Motsepe Foundation | Multiple fields | Full funding plus general allowance | None specified |
What Past Students Say
Students commonly cite NSFAS as the most accessible bursary for general studies at public institutions. While some complain about delays or confusion in communication, most agree it offers valuable full coverage for low-income students.
Corporate bursaries, though more competitive, are praised for their added benefits—such as guaranteed work experience, professional networking, and mentorship. Students in commerce, IT, engineering and science are especially encouraged to apply for these bursaries early in their academic journey.
Practical Tips to Increase Your Chances
- Apply for multiple bursaries: It improves your chances of securing funding.
- Start early: Most bursary applications close months before the academic year begins.
- Prepare quality documents: Certified ID copies, updated academic results, motivational letters, and proof of income.
- Maintain strong academic results: Most bursaries are renewed annually based on your grades.
- Tailor each application: Write custom motivational letters for each bursary that align with its goals.
Final Thoughts: Plan Carefully, Apply Widely
If you’re preparing to attend college in South Africa and need financial support, there’s a wide range of bursaries available. Start with NSFAS if you meet the financial criteria and are attending a public university or TVET college. If you’re pursuing fields like engineering, teaching, finance, or IT, apply for corporate and foundation bursaries that align with your goals.
The key to success is preparation. Identify bursaries early, gather the required documents, and apply before deadlines. With careful planning and persistence, you can fund your education without taking on debt—and set yourself on the path to a successful academic and professional future.
