Securing a bursary in South Africa can dramatically transform a student’s life, providing not only financial support but also access to career opportunities and professional networks. In a country where tuition fees can range from R60,000 to R150,000 per year at public universities, bursaries are a lifeline for thousands of students each year. For students pursuing degrees in medicine, engineering, IT, and business, bursaries reduce the financial burden while providing structured guidance and mentorship. According to Stats SA, approximately 25% of South African youth are enrolled in tertiary education, but many face financial barriers that bursaries help overcome.
The landscape of bursaries in South Africa is extensive, including government-funded programs, corporate-sponsored bursaries, and university-specific awards. Major companies such as Sasol, Eskom, and Standard Bank, along with government initiatives like the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS), provide bursaries targeting high-demand fields. Each bursary has its own eligibility criteria, often requiring academic excellence, financial need, or alignment with a specific career path. For example, Eskom bursaries prioritize students in engineering and energy-related fields, while Sasol focuses on science and technology. Understanding these nuances ensures applicants choose the most suitable bursaries to maximize their chances of acceptance.
Financially, bursaries can cover a range of expenses, including tuition, books, accommodation, and living allowances. For instance, a bursary covering full tuition at the University of Johannesburg for an engineering degree would amount to approximately R80,000 per year. Adding an allowance for accommodation and books of R20,000 per year, the total value reaches R100,000 annually. Over a four-year degree, the cumulative benefit totals R400,000, a substantial investment in the student’s future. This not only reduces the need for student loans but also allows students to focus entirely on their studies, significantly improving academic outcomes and career readiness.
Top 10 Bursaries in South Africa 2025
- NSFAS Bursaries
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme provides bursaries to students from low-income families who demonstrate academic potential.- Coverage: Tuition, accommodation, books, living allowance
- Eligibility: South African citizen, household income < R350,000/year
- Math Example: Tuition R60,000 + Accommodation R15,000 + Books R5,000 + Living Allowance R15,000 = R95,000/year
- Sasol Bursaries
Sasol focuses on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) students. The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, and a stipend.- Coverage: Full tuition + stipend of R5,000/month
- Eligibility: South African citizen, pursuing STEM degree, academic excellence
- Math Example: Tuition R80,000 + 12-month stipend R60,000 + Accommodation R20,000 = R160,000/year
- Eskom Bursaries
Targeting engineering, IT, and commerce students, Eskom offers bursaries with mentorship and potential employment after graduation.- Coverage: Full tuition + monthly allowance R6,000
- Eligibility: South African citizen, engineering or IT degree
- Math Example: Tuition R75,000 + 12 × R6,000 stipend = R147,000/year
- Standard Bank Bursary
Focused on finance, accounting, and business-related degrees, this bursary includes mentorship and internship opportunities.- Coverage: Full tuition + accommodation + internship allowance
- Eligibility: Academic merit + financial need
- Math Example: Tuition R70,000 + Accommodation R18,000 + Internship Allowance R6,000 = R94,000/year
- Anglo American Bursary
Supports students in mining, engineering, and geology. Offers comprehensive mentorship and work placement programs.- Coverage: Tuition + accommodation + travel allowance
- Eligibility: STEM-related degree, academic excellence
- Math Example: Tuition R85,000 + Accommodation R20,000 + Travel R5,000 = R110,000/year
- South African Breweries (SAB) Bursary
Designed for students pursuing degrees in commerce, marketing, and logistics.- Coverage: Tuition + stipend R4,500/month
- Eligibility: Academic merit, financial need
- Math Example: Tuition R65,000 + 12 × R4,500 stipend = R119,000/year
- MTN Bursaries
MTN supports students in ICT, business, and engineering, offering mentorship and training programs.- Coverage: Tuition + living allowance
- Eligibility: STEM or business degrees, academic merit
- Math Example: Tuition R75,000 + Living Allowance R12,000 = R87,000/year
- De Beers Bursaries
De Beers focuses on engineering, geology, and mining management students. Provides internships and career placement support.- Coverage: Full tuition + stipend R5,000/month
- Eligibility: STEM-related field, South African citizen
- Math Example: Tuition R80,000 + 12 × R5,000 stipend = R140,000/year
- Discovery Health Bursary
Discovery offers bursaries in medicine, health sciences, and actuarial sciences. Includes mentorship and career development programs.- Coverage: Tuition + monthly allowance R6,000
- Eligibility: Health science degrees, academic excellence
- Math Example: Tuition R75,000 + 12 × R6,000 stipend = R147,000/year
- ABSA Bursaries
ABSA focuses on finance, accounting, and economics students. Offers mentorship, internships, and career growth opportunities.
- Coverage: Tuition + monthly allowance R5,000
- Eligibility: Academic merit, finance-related degrees
- Math Example: Tuition R70,000 + 12 × R5,000 stipend = R130,000/year
Total Value of Bursaries
Let’s calculate an example for a four-year engineering degree sponsored by Sasol:
| Item | Annual Cost (R) | 4-Year Total (R) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | 80,000 | 320,000 |
| Stipend (12 × 5,000) | 60,000 | 240,000 |
| Accommodation | 20,000 | 80,000 |
| Total Value | 160,000 | 640,000 |
This demonstrates the significant financial and career benefits bursaries provide, far exceeding mere tuition coverage.
How to Apply Successfully
- Research Each Bursary: Understand eligibility, deadlines, and supporting documents.
- Prepare Academic Records: High grades increase chances for merit-based bursaries.
- Write a Tailored Motivation Letter: Explain your career goals, challenges, and suitability.
- Apply Early: Submit applications before deadlines; late submissions are often rejected.
- Follow Up: Stay in contact with bursary providers and attend interviews if required.