Bursaries 2027 in South Africa: Open Bursaries, Closing Dates and How to Apply
Government Bursaries Open for 2027
| Bursary | For | Closing date | How to apply |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSFAS | Students at public universities and TVET colleges from households earning R350,000 or less a year (R600,000 for students with a disability) | 31 October 2026 | Online on myNSFAS |
| Funza Lushaka | Future teachers aged 30 or younger (first-time applicants) | 31 January 2027 (new), 30 November 2026 (returning) | eservices.gov.za |
Read our guides: NSFAS applications 2027, NSFAS status meanings and Funza Lushaka bursary 2027.
Where to Find Other Bursaries
| Where to look | What you will find |
|---|---|
| Company careers pages | Banks, mining, energy, engineering and retail companies offer bursaries in their fields |
| SETAs | Sector bursaries linked to scarce skills |
| Provincial governments | Provincial bursaries, often for health, education and engineering |
| Municipalities | Local bursaries for residents |
| Your university or TVET college | The financial aid office lists bursaries and scholarships |
Many company bursaries for 2027 closed between August and October 2026, so check closing dates early. Some reopen in the first months of 2027 for second-year and later students.
What You Usually Need
- Certified copy of your ID.
- Your latest school results (Grade 11 final or Grade 12) or university results.
- Proof of household income (payslips, a SASSA letter or an affidavit).
- Proof of admission or application to a university or college.
- A motivational letter, if asked.
Tips for a Strong Bursary Application
- Apply to several bursaries, not just one.
- Read the requirements and choose bursaries that match your field of study.
- Write a short, honest motivation letter in your own words.
- Make sure every document is clear and certified.
- Apply before the closing date. Late applications are usually rejected.
- Keep a list of your applications and reference numbers.
Watch Out for Work-Back Conditions
Many company and government bursaries require you to work for the funder after you qualify, usually for as many years as you were funded. Read the contract before you sign.
Avoid Bursary Scams
- Real bursaries do not charge application fees.
- Be careful with adverts on WhatsApp or Facebook that ask for money or banking PINs.
- Check that the bursary is listed on the company’s or department’s official website.
Bursaries 2027 Questions
Which bursaries are open for 2027?
NSFAS (until 31 October 2026) and Funza Lushaka (new applicants until 31 January 2027) are open. Company and SETA bursaries have their own dates on their official websites.
Can I apply for more than one bursary?
Yes. Apply for several to improve your chances, but read each contract carefully if you are offered more than one.
Do I need to be accepted at a university to apply for a bursary?
Many bursaries let you apply before you are accepted, but you must be accepted before the bursary pays.
Do bursaries pay for accommodation?
Some do. NSFAS and Funza Lushaka cover accommodation or transport, among other costs.