South Africa 2027 Bursaries is here! Planning to attend university or college in 2027 but worried about the cost of studying? You are not alone. Many students in South Africa need financial assistance to pay for tuition, accommodation, textbooks, transport and other education-related expenses.
Fortunately, there are several bursaries for 2027 studies in South Africa that qualifying students can explore. These opportunities are offered by government departments, universities, private companies, professional organisations and charitable foundations.
Some bursaries focus on students from low-income households, while others support specific fields such as engineering, teaching, information technology, accounting, environmental science and health sciences.
In this guide, Apply Vasities explains the latest 2027 bursary opportunities, who can apply, the documents you may need, important closing dates and how to submit a successful bursary application.
Important: Bursary deadlines and requirements differ between providers. Always confirm the latest information on the official provider’s website before applying.
Bursaries for 2027 Studies Currently Available in South Africa
Students preparing for the 2027 academic year should begin by checking opportunities with active application windows. Some bursaries have already closed, but others remain open or have deadlines extending into the final months of 2026 and early 2027.
1. NSFAS 2027 Applications
The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is one of the main sources of financial assistance for eligible South African students attending public universities and TVET colleges.
For the 2027 academic year, NSFAS applications opened on 18 September 2026. The official NSFAS application page currently lists 31 October 2026 as the closing date. Applications are free.
NSFAS funding is intended for qualifying students who meet the scheme’s financial, academic and other eligibility requirements.
Depending on the approved funding arrangements and the student’s circumstances, support may cover tuition, accommodation and other approved study-related costs.
Who can apply?
Applicants must meet the relevant NSFAS eligibility criteria. These include financial requirements, citizenship or residency rules where applicable, and requirements relating to the qualification and institution.
How to apply:
- Visit the official NSFAS website at https://www.nsfas.org.za/.
- Create or access your myNSFAS account.
- Complete the 2027 application.
- Provide the requested personal and household information.
- Upload any supporting documents required for your circumstances.
- Submit your application and monitor your account for updates.
Students should apply as early as possible rather than waiting until the closing date.
2. Funza Lushaka Bursary 2027
The Funza Lushaka Bursary supports eligible students who want to pursue a teaching career in South Africa.
The official programme website states that applications for the 2027 academic year opened on 1 October 2026.
New applications close on 31 January 2027, while applications from existing or returning bursars close on 30 November 2026. First-time applicants must be 30 years old or younger.
The bursary is intended for qualifying students pursuing approved teaching qualifications. Applicants must meet the programme’s academic, qualification and other requirements.
How to apply:
- Visit the official Funza Lushaka website at https://www.funzalushaka.doe.gov.za/.
- Access the government e-Services platform.
- Register or sign in to your account.
- Select the Funza Lushaka Bursary Scheme.
- Choose the 2027 application option.
- Complete the requested information and submit the application.
Students should read the official guidelines carefully because meeting the age requirement alone does not guarantee bursary approval.
3. SANZAF Bursary 2027
The South African National Zakah Fund (SANZAF) provides financial assistance to qualifying students who need help funding their education.
Its published 2027 bursary information lists 31 December 2026 as the application deadline.
SANZAF funding is partial, meaning students may need additional financial assistance to cover all their study expenses.
Applicants should review the organisation’s eligibility requirements and prepare the requested supporting documents, which may include proof of income, identification documents, a motivational letter and a testimonial.
How to apply: Visit https://seed.sanzaf.org.za/ and check the current 2027 bursary application instructions.
4. South African Reserve Bank External Bursary 2027
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) offers an external bursary scheme for eligible undergraduate students.
The scheme supports studies in fields relevant to the Reserve Bank’s functions and South Africa’s skills needs. Students interested in areas such as economics, finance, mathematics, statistics and information technology can investigate the programme’s requirements.
The application period and eligibility conditions must be confirmed through the official bursary announcement.
How to apply: Visit https://www.resbank.co.za/ and search for the South African Reserve Bank External Bursary Scheme 2027.
5. CSIR Bursary Programme 2027
The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) supports the development of scientific, engineering and technological skills through bursary programmes.
Its opportunities may be relevant to students pursuing approved qualifications in science, engineering, technology and other related disciplines.
The listed closing date for the 2027 CSIR bursary programme was 15 September 2026. Therefore, applicants should not assume that the original application window is still open.
Students can monitor the CSIR website for new funding announcements and other opportunities.
How to apply: Visit https://www.csir.co.za/ and review the available bursary programmes.
6. DFFE Bursary Programme 2027
The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) advertised a 2027 full-time bursary programme for eligible students pursuing relevant environmental and natural-resource qualifications.
The programme covers fields associated with areas such as:
- Forestry
- Fisheries
- Environmental science
- Conservation
- Environmental management
- Oceans and coastal studies
The published maximum bursary amount was R80,000, and the listed closing date was 2 October 2026. That deadline has passed.
Students should visit the department’s official website to check for new announcements rather than assuming late applications are accepted.
How to apply: Visit https://www.dffe.gov.za/ and search for the 2027 bursary programme.
7. Sasol Foundation Bursary 2027
The Sasol Foundation bursary programme supports qualifying students in selected academic fields, particularly science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).
Relevant areas may include engineering, information technology, data science and environmental sciences. Certain opportunities may also support selected non-STEM qualifications.
The published 2027 application period ran from 1 August to 23 August 2026, so that window has closed.
Students should monitor Sasol’s official website for future opportunities and announcements.
How to apply: Visit https://www.sasol.com/ and search for Sasol Foundation bursaries.
What Types of Bursaries Can You Apply for in 2027?
Not every bursary is designed for the same type of student. Understanding the available categories can help you focus on opportunities that match your qualifications, financial circumstances and career plans.
Undergraduate Bursaries
Undergraduate bursaries support eligible students pursuing their first higher-education qualification, such as a diploma or bachelor’s degree.
Depending on the funder, applicants may need Grade 12 results, university acceptance, a specified academic average or proof of financial need.
TVET College Bursaries
Students planning to attend a TVET college can investigate NSFAS funding and other bursaries available for approved vocational and occupational programmes.
Eligibility depends on the funding scheme, institution and qualification.
Postgraduate Bursaries
Postgraduate funding may be available for honours, master’s and doctoral studies. These opportunities often focus on academic performance, research potential and fields in which specialist skills are needed.
Students should check university funding offices, research councils and professional organisations for relevant opportunities.
Merit-Based Bursaries
Merit-based bursaries reward academic achievement. Applicants may need to demonstrate strong school results or maintain a specified academic average during their studies.
Some merit-based programmes also consider leadership, community involvement or extracurricular achievements.
Need-Based Bursaries
Need-based bursaries support students who cannot easily afford the cost of higher education.
Applicants may need to provide proof of household income, unemployment, financial dependency or other information specified by the bursary provider.
Company and Industry Bursaries
Companies sometimes fund students studying qualifications relevant to their industries. These bursaries may include tuition assistance, mentoring, vacation work or employment opportunities after graduation.
Some awards include contractual obligations, so applicants should read the terms carefully before accepting funding.
Who Qualifies for Bursaries in South Africa?
There is no single set of requirements that applies to every bursary for 2027 studies in South Africa. Each funding provider establishes its own eligibility conditions.
Common requirements may include:
- South African citizenship or another qualifying legal status.
- Acceptance or registration at a recognised university, TVET college or other approved institution.
- Registration for a qualification covered by the bursary.
- Meeting the minimum academic requirements.
- Meeting the provider’s household-income threshold, where applicable.
- Being within the specified age limit, where applicable.
- Residing in a particular province, district or municipality, if required.
- Demonstrating financial need or academic merit, depending on the programme.
Some bursaries are reserved for specific fields of study, while others target students with disabilities, students from disadvantaged backgrounds or applicants from designated communities.
Important: Do not apply based on the bursary title alone. Read the complete eligibility criteria to determine whether you qualify.
Documents Required for Bursary Applications in 2027
Preparing your documents early can help you complete applications more efficiently. Although requirements vary, the following documents are commonly requested.
1. South African ID or Relevant Identification
You may need a clear copy of your identity document or another form of identification accepted by the provider.
2. Matric Certificate or School Results
First-year applicants may need their Grade 12 results, matric certificate or the latest available school results.
3. Academic Transcript
Students already studying at university or college may need to submit their latest academic transcript.
4. Proof of Registration or Acceptance
Some bursaries require proof that you have been accepted into an approved qualification or are already registered at an institution.
5. Proof of Household Income
Depending on the programme, you may be asked to provide payslips, an affidavit, grant information or other documents that demonstrate your household’s financial circumstances.
6. Parent or Guardian Documents
Applicants who are financially dependent on their parents or guardians may need to provide relevant identification or income documents.
7. Motivational Letter
Some providers ask applicants to explain their educational goals, financial circumstances and reasons for applying.
8. Additional Supporting Documents
Certain bursaries may request proof of residence, disability documentation, recommendation letters, a CV or other programme-specific documents.
Always follow the official checklist. Do not submit unnecessary sensitive information or send documents to an unverified email address.
How to Apply for Bursaries for 2027 Studies in South Africa
Applying for bursaries becomes easier when you follow a clear process.
Step 1: Choose a Suitable Bursary
Search for funding that matches your intended qualification, institution, academic results and financial circumstances.
Step 2: Check the Closing Date
Confirm whether applications are open and record the correct deadline. Some 2027 bursary opportunities closed earlier in 2026, while others remain available.
Step 3: Read the Requirements
Check the minimum marks, approved qualifications, age limits, income requirements and any additional conditions.
Step 4: Prepare Your Documents
Gather the documents requested by the provider. Ensure that they are clear, complete and certified where certification is required.
Step 5: Complete the Application Form
Use the official application portal or submission method specified by the bursary provider. Enter accurate personal, academic and financial information.
Step 6: Upload Supporting Documents
Check that every required document has been uploaded successfully and that files are readable.
Step 7: Submit Before the Deadline
Review the application before submitting it. Save your reference number or confirmation email as proof of submission.
Step 8: Monitor Your Application Status
Check your email, application account and official announcements for requests for additional documents or funding decisions.
Can You Apply for More Than One Bursary?
Yes. You can generally apply for multiple bursaries if you meet the requirements for each programme.
Applying for several suitable opportunities may give you more options if one application is unsuccessful.
However, you must disclose existing funding when required. Some providers restrict applicants from receiving overlapping bursaries or may adjust their award if another organisation is covering the same expenses.
Always read the funding agreement before accepting more than one award.
UL 2027 Applications Open: Dates, Requirements & How to Apply
How to Avoid Bursary Scams
Students searching for bursaries should be careful about fraudulent advertisements and unofficial application services.
Follow these precautions:
- Use the official website of the bursary provider whenever possible.
- Do not pay someone who promises to guarantee a bursary award.
- Be cautious of messages demanding payment to release funding.
- Never share account passwords or one-time verification codes.
- Confirm application deadlines directly with the organisation.
- Check the terms and conditions before signing a funding agreement.
Legitimate bursary programmes have specific application requirements and selection processes. No third party can guarantee that you will receive an award simply because you paid for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions About 2027 Bursaries
When should I apply for bursaries for 2027?
Apply as soon as a suitable bursary opens. Many funding providers set their own application periods, so students should not wait until university registration begins.
Are bursary applications free?
Many official bursary applications are free, including NSFAS. However, always check the provider’s official instructions and be suspicious of anyone demanding payment in exchange for guaranteed funding.
Can Grade 12 learners apply for 2027 bursaries?
Yes. Some bursaries accept eligible Grade 12 learners, while others require applicants to have completed matric or already received university acceptance.
Can I apply for a bursary without being accepted at university?
Some providers accept applications before final admission, while others require proof of acceptance or registration. Check the specific bursary requirements.
Do all bursaries cover accommodation and meals?
No. Some bursaries provide comprehensive support, while others cover tuition, books or specified expenses only. Confirm what the award includes before relying on it to fund your studies.
What should I do if a bursary deadline has passed?
Check the provider’s website for another funding opportunity or the next application cycle. Do not assume late applications will be accepted.
Final Thoughts
Finding suitable bursaries for 2027 studies in South Africa takes preparation, careful research and attention to deadlines. Whether you plan to attend a university or TVET college, there may be funding opportunities that match your academic goals and financial circumstances.
Start with major funding schemes such as NSFAS and Funza Lushaka if you meet their requirements. You can also investigate company bursaries, government department programmes and other funding providers that support your intended field of study.
Prepare your documents, apply through official channels and monitor your applications regularly. Most importantly, verify each opportunity’s latest requirements before submitting your details.
Keep visiting Apply Vasities for university application updates, bursary announcements, admission requirements and student funding information to help you prepare for the 2027 academic year.
Related Posts
- NSFAS 2027 Applications: Requirements, Closing Date and How to Apply
- Funza Lushaka Bursary 2027: Requirements and Application Guide
- University Applications for 2027 in South Africa
- TVET College Applications for 2027: Requirements and Closing Dates
Editorial note: Before publishing, add the exact URLs of these related articles on your website. Update this guide whenever an official bursary provider announces a new deadline or funding opportunity.