If you’re aiming to study in South Africa in 2025, you probably already know how costly tertiary education can be. Tuition fees keep rising, and costs like accommodation, books, and transport add up quickly. Fortunately, scholarships can be the lifeline you need helping you pay for your education and sometimes covering living expenses too.
This comprehensive guide breaks down the top scholarships in South Africa for 2025, who qualifies, what they cover, and how to boost your chances of winning. Whether you’re finishing matric, in university already, or even considering postgraduate studies, this guide is designed to help you navigate your options like a pro.
Why Scholarships Are Essential
Education is often the most powerful investment in your future, but access can be restricted by cost. Scholarships provide more than just financial aid they validate your academic and personal achievements and can set you apart when you enter the job market.
Many scholarships come from government bodies, private companies, and nonprofit organizations that want to empower South Africa’s youth. Winning one not only helps pay your fees but can also give you mentoring, internships, and networking opportunities.
Top 10 Scholarships in South Africa (2025)
1️⃣ National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)
The biggest and most accessible option for many South Africans. NSFAS supports students from low-income households who want to study at public universities and TVET colleges.
- Who qualifies? Students with family income below R350,000 per year.
- What’s covered? Tuition fees, accommodation, books, and transport.
- How to apply: Visit nsfas.org.za during the application period (usually August to November). Apply online and upload required documents.
- Tips: Apply early, keep your documents ready (ID, proof of income, university acceptance letter), and double-check your application before submission.
2️⃣ Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme
If you want to become a teacher, Funza Lushaka is perfect for you. This bursary targets students studying to become teachers in subjects that are critical to South Africa’s education system, like Maths, Science, and Technology.
- Who qualifies? Students admitted for a recognized teaching qualification.
- What’s covered? Full tuition, accommodation, living allowance, and books.
- How to apply: Applications open annually, usually in March-April, via the Department of Basic Education website.
- Tips: Focus on critical subject areas to increase your chances. Commitment to teaching after graduation is required.
3️⃣ Rhodes Scholarship South Africa
A globally prestigious postgraduate scholarship that allows South African students to study at the University of Oxford in the UK.
- Who qualifies? Academic excellence, leadership skills, and a strong commitment to community.
- What’s covered? Full tuition, stipend, flights, and living expenses.
- How to apply: Prepare a detailed application with essays, references, and interviews. Visit rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk.
- Tips: Start preparing years ahead by developing leadership skills and strong academic records.
4️⃣ Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship
Ideal for students with an entrepreneurial mindset who want to make a difference in South Africa.
- Who qualifies? South African citizens younger than 25 years, planning to study at a South African university.
- What’s covered? Full tuition, development programs, and mentorship.
- How to apply: Applications are online at allangrayorbis.org.
- Tips: Demonstrate your leadership potential and entrepreneurial spirit in your application.
5️⃣ Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship
This scholarship supports African postgraduate students committed to leadership and social development.
- Who qualifies? Africans aged 19–30 pursuing postgraduate degrees.
- What’s covered? Tuition, accommodation, living allowance, and leadership training.
- How to apply: Applications open annually at mandelarhodes.org.za.
- Tips: Showcase your leadership qualities and commitment to Africa’s development.
6️⃣ Standard Bank Women in Power Bursary
Designed to empower female students in engineering and technology-related fields.
- Who qualifies? South African women pursuing engineering degrees.
- What’s covered? Tuition fees and mentoring support.
- How to apply: Check Standard Bank’s website or partner universities.
- Tips: Highlight your passion for STEM fields and leadership experiences.
7️⃣ ABSA Skills Development Fund
ABSA supports students studying finance, accounting, business, and IT through bursaries and internships.
- Who qualifies? South African students pursuing relevant degrees.
- What’s covered? Tuition, internship opportunities, and mentoring.
- How to apply: Visit absa.africa and follow bursary announcements.
- Tips: Maintain strong academic results and community involvement.
8️⃣ South African Medical Association (SAMA) Bursaries
Focused on students in health sciences, including medicine and nursing.
- Who qualifies? Students studying medicine, nursing, or allied health.
- What’s covered? Tuition and sometimes accommodation.
- How to apply: Through SAMA and affiliated universities.
- Tips: Be prepared to serve in underserved areas after qualification.
9️⃣ Sasol Bursary Scheme
Sasol funds students studying engineering, science, and commerce who show promise.
- Who qualifies? Students with strong academic records in related fields.
- What’s covered? Tuition, accommodation, books, and living allowances.
- How to apply: Applications open annually on sasol.com.
- Tips: Stay on top of deadlines and maintain your academic performance.
🔟 Google Africa Scholarship Program
Google’s program boosts digital skills among students passionate about tech.
- Who qualifies? African students interested in IT and computer science.
- What’s covered? Scholarships, training, mentorship, and internships.
- How to apply: Via Google’s scholarship portal; includes online challenges.
- Tips: Build coding experience and prepare for online assessments.
How to Increase Your Chances of Winning Scholarships
1. Start Early
Scholarships close months before the academic year starts. Begin your research and application process early to avoid missing deadlines.
2. Understand What Each Scholarship Wants
Tailor your application essays and documents to fit the scholarship’s criteria. Highlight relevant skills such as leadership, community service, academic excellence, or financial need.
3. Get Organized
Keep a checklist of required documents transcripts, IDs, recommendation letters and submit them together. Missing documents often mean instant disqualification.
4. Write a Strong Motivation Letter
Explain why you deserve the scholarship and how it will help you achieve your goals. Be honest, clear, and avoid clichés.
5. Ask for Feedback
Have teachers, mentors, or family members review your applications to catch errors and improve clarity.
6. Prepare for Interviews
If your scholarship requires an interview, practice answering questions about your background, ambitions, and commitment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Waiting until the last minute to apply
- Submitting incomplete applications
- Copy-pasting generic essays
- Failing to follow application instructions
- Not proofreading your submissions
Other Funding Options You Should Know About
- Bursaries vs Loans: Bursaries are often repayable only if you don’t complete your studies or fail to graduate. Loans always require repayment.
- Learnerships: These combine study with paid work experience and can be a great way to gain practical skills.
- Employer Sponsorships: Some companies sponsor employees’ further education, often requiring a work commitment after graduation.
- Crowdfunding: Platforms like BackaBuddy let you raise study funds online with community support.
Final Thoughts from LegitJobs.co.za
Navigating the scholarship landscape in South Africa can be overwhelming but don’t let that stop you. The financial relief and opportunities that come with scholarships are life-changing. Focus on building your profile, preparing strong applications, and applying widely.
Bookmark LegitJobs.co.za for more guides on scholarships, jobs, learnerships, and careers your one-stop hub for making your education dreams real in 2025.
