Bursaries

Helpful guides for South African students applying for bursaries, understanding requirements, and preparing strong applications.

Last updated: 19 March 2026

Bursary guides

How to apply for bursaries in South Africa

Learn how bursary applications usually work, what documents you need, and how to improve your chances.

Bursary vs NSFAS: what is the difference?

Understand how bursaries and NSFAS differ, and why students should understand both funding options.

Bursary documents checklist for South African students

Prepare the common documents students usually need before bursary deadlines arrive.

When do bursary applications open in South Africa?

Understand why bursary dates differ, how to prepare early, and how to avoid missing deadlines.

Common bursary mistakes students make

Learn the common mistakes that cause students to miss bursary opportunities and how to avoid them.

Official bursary opportunities

Below is a starter list of official bursary and fellowship pages from major organisations. Always check the provider’s own page for opening dates, requirements, fields of study, and closing dates.

Starter list

Vodacom Bursary Programme • Bursary

Official Vodacom bursary page for students in STEM-related fields.

Nedbank External Bursary Programme • Bursary

Official Nedbank bursary page for academically strong students with financial need.

Standard Bank Bursaries • Bursary

Official Standard Bank bursary page for undergraduate and postgraduate study support.

Sasol Foundation Bursaries • Bursary

Official Sasol Foundation bursary page focused on STEM undergraduate study.

Investec Tertiary Bursary Programme • Bursary

Official Investec tertiary bursary page for selected degree fields relevant to financial services.

Allan Gray Fellowship Programme • Fellowship / Funding

Official Allan Gray Orbis fellowship page for university funding and entrepreneurial development.

Absa Fellowship Programme • Fellowship / Funding

Official Absa fellowship page with funding and leadership development support.