Bursaries and Scholarships 2025 South Africa
Complete Funding Guide for Higher Education
What Are Bursaries and Scholarships?
Bursaries
Financial awards that cover tuition, accommodation, books, and sometimes living expenses. They often require recipients to work for the funding provider for a period equal to the funding duration.
Examples: Funza Lushaka recipients must teach in public schools.
Scholarships
Academic sponsorships typically awarded for academic excellence, leadership, or specific talents. Most do not require repayment, but some may have performance conditions.
Examples: Maintaining a 60% average for athletic scholarships.
Both are critical for South African students, especially those from low-income households, to access public universities and Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges.
Why Apply for Bursaries and Scholarships in 2025?
Financial Relief
Covers costs like tuition (averaging R40,000–R80,000/year for universities), accommodation, and study materials.
Access to Education
Enables students to attend top institutions like University of Pretoria (UP), University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), or Stellenbosch University (SU).
Career Opportunities
Many bursaries, like Funza Lushaka, guarantee post-graduation employment in priority fields.
Equity and Inclusion
Programs target disadvantaged groups, including students with disabilities and those from rural areas.
Key Bursaries and Scholarships for 2025
National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)
Overview: Government-funded bursary for students from households with incomes of R350,000 or less.
Eligibility: South African citizen, accepted at public university/TVET college, 60% pass rate for returning students.
Coverage: Tuition, accommodation, transport, books, living allowance.
Application: September 20, 2024 – January 31, 2025
Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme
Overview: Addresses teacher shortage by funding teaching qualifications.
Eligibility: South African citizen under 30, accepted into BEd or PGCE program.
Priority Subjects: Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Indigenous Languages.
Application: October 1, 2024 – February 2, 2025
Private-Sector Bursaries
- Moshal Program: High-demand fields like Accounting, Engineering
- MultiChoice Bursary: 230 bursaries for Actuarial Science, Media Studies
- Santam Bursary: Finance and insurance fields
How to Apply
- Research Opportunities: Check university and government portals
- Check Eligibility: Meet academic, financial, and program criteria
- Prepare Documents: Certified ID, academic records, proof of income
- Apply Online: Most applications are digital
- Track Applications: Use official portals to monitor status
Warning: Beware of scams – only use official websites.
Key Deadlines for 2025
| Bursary | Deadline |
|---|---|
| NSFAS | January 31, 2025 |
| Funza Lushaka (New) | February 2, 2025 |
| Stellenbosch University | March 28, 2025 |
| Santam | May 30, 2025 |
Tips for Success
Apply Early
Avoid last-minute technical issues or incomplete applications.
Tailor Applications
Write personalized motivation letters highlighting achievements.
Maintain Grades
Many bursaries require annual reapplication based on performance.
Focus on Priority Areas
Higher chances for scarce skills like teaching or engineering.
Conclusion
The Bursaries and Scholarships 2025 South Africa landscape offers diverse opportunities to fund your higher education. Government programs like NSFAS and Funza Lushaka provide substantial support, while private-sector options cater to scarce skills. With deadlines approaching (e.g., January 31, 2025 for NSFAS), act now to secure your funding. Your educational journey starts here—apply today and shape your future!
Department of Higher Education and Training | Republic of South Africa