Bursaries · Free South African guide
How to find and apply for bursaries in South Africa.
Bursaries come from government (including NSFAS), companies, SETAs and universities. Each has its own rules and closing dates. Apply only on official websites.
- Where genuine bursaries are advertised
- Documents to prepare
- Motivation letter tips
- Tracker for closing dates
Where to look
- NSFAS for government student funding (nsfas.org.za).
- Your university or TVET college financial aid office.
- Company careers pages (mining, banking, engineering, retail).
- SETA websites for sector bursaries.
- Provincial government bursary programmes.
Documents usually requested
- Certified ID copy
- Latest results or matric certificate
- Proof of registration or acceptance
- Proof of household income where required
- Motivation letter
Scam warning
Real employers and government departments never ask you to pay for a job, an interview, training or a 'registration fee' to be shortlisted. If someone asks for money or your banking PIN, walk away and report it.
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