LIST OF BEST SOUTH AFRICAN BURSARIES

LIST OF BEST SOUTH AFRICAN BURSARIES

1. National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)
   • A government-funded scheme for students from low-income households.
   • Covers tuition and living allowances for students at public universities and TVET colleges.
   • Good if you demonstrate financial need and are studying full‐time
     
     
     
2. Sasol Foundation / Sasol Bursary Scheme
   • Focuses on STEM (Science, Tech, Engineering, Maths) fields.
   • Covers full cost for high-achievers passionate about STEM.
   • Good if you want to study engineering, science or accounting and are strong academically.
     
3. South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA) Thuthuka Bursary
   • Supports students who want to become Chartered Accountants
     
4. Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme
   • Supports students studying to become teachers in priority subject areas.
   • Fully covers costs (tuition, accommodation, books) but you must teach for a number of years in a public school in return.
     
5. Investec Tertiary Bursary Programme (in partnership with StudyTrust)
   • Targets academically strong students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
   • Especially useful for students from low-income households who want degrees in commerce/finance/banking.

✅ Tips before you apply

• Check eligibility criteria carefully: academic results, field of study, financial need, sometimes residence/province.
• Apply early: many bursaries open well in advance of the academic year.
• Choose programmes aligned with your field of interest and career goals (engineering, teaching, finance etc).
• Make sure you understand any obligations (e.g., teach for X years, work for the company that provided the bursary).
• Keep organized: gather your ID, proof of income, academic transcripts, motivational letters.