- 1. 1. NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme)
- 2. 2. Funza Lushaka Bursary
- 3. 3. Sasol Bursary
- 4. 4. Nedbank Bursary Fund
- 5. 5. Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship
- 6. 6. MTN Foundation Bursary
- 7. 7. Vodacom Bursary
- 8. 8. ABSA Bursary Programme
- 9. 9. Transnet Bursary
- 10. 10. Shoprite Bursary
- 11. Conclusion
Securing a bursary can significantly ease the financial burden of tertiary education. For South African students in 2024, numerous bursary opportunities are available across various fields of study. This guide provides detailed information on the top 10 bursaries, their requirements, and how to apply.
1. NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme)
Overview
NSFAS provides financial assistance to disadvantaged students who wish to study at public universities or TVET colleges in South Africa.
Requirements
- South African citizenship.
- Acceptance into a public university or TVET college.
- Combined household income of not more than R350,000 per annum.
Benefits
- Tuition fees.
- Accommodation.
- Meal allowances.
- Book allowances.
Application Process
Applications are submitted online via the NSFAS website. Required documents include a certified ID copy, proof of income, and proof of acceptance at an educational institution.
2. Funza Lushaka Bursary
Overview
The Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme is aimed at encouraging students to pursue teaching as a career.
Requirements
- South African citizenship.
- Acceptance into a recognized teaching qualification (BEd or PGCE).
- Strong academic performance in high school or tertiary level.
Benefits
- Tuition fees.
- Accommodation and meals.
- Book allowances.
- Monthly stipend.
Application Process
Applications are submitted online through the Funza Lushaka website. Applicants must provide academic transcripts, ID copies, and proof of acceptance into a teaching program.
3. Sasol Bursary
Overview
Sasol offers bursaries to students pursuing degrees in engineering, science, and commerce.
Requirements
- South African citizenship.
- High academic performance in Mathematics and Science.
- Enrollment in a recognized South African university.
Benefits
- Tuition fees.
- Accommodation.
- Book allowances.
- Computer allowance.
Application Process
Applications are submitted online on the Sasol website. Required documents include academic transcripts, ID copies, and proof of acceptance at a university.
4. Nedbank Bursary Fund
Overview
The Nedbank Bursary Fund provides financial support to students pursuing degrees in commerce, science, engineering, technology, and mathematics.
Requirements
- South African citizenship.
- Strong academic performance.
- Financial need.
Benefits
- Tuition fees.
- Accommodation.
- Book allowances.
- Monthly stipend.
Application Process
Applications are submitted online via the Nedbank website. Applicants must provide academic transcripts, ID copies, and proof of acceptance at a university.
5. Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship
Overview
The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship offers comprehensive support to high-potential students pursuing various degrees.
Requirements
- South African citizenship.
- Strong leadership and entrepreneurial potential.
- Enrollment in a first-year degree program.
Benefits
- Tuition fees.
- Accommodation.
- Book allowances.
- Personal development and mentorship.
Application Process
Applications are submitted online through the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation website. Required documents include academic transcripts, ID copies, and proof of acceptance at a university.
6. MTN Foundation Bursary
Overview
The MTN Foundation Bursary supports students studying ICT-related degrees.
Requirements
- South African citizenship.
- Strong academic performance in ICT-related subjects.
- Enrollment in a recognized South African university.
Benefits
- Tuition fees.
- Accommodation.
- Book allowances.
- Monthly stipend.
Application Process
Applications are submitted online on the MTN Foundation website. Required documents include academic transcripts, ID copies, and proof of acceptance at a university.
7. Vodacom Bursary
Overview
Vodacom offers bursaries to students pursuing degrees in engineering, information technology, and telecommunications.
Requirements
- South African citizenship.
- Strong academic performance in Mathematics and Science.
- Enrollment in a recognized South African university.
Benefits
- Tuition fees.
- Accommodation.
- Book allowances.
- Laptop allowance.
Application Process
Applications are submitted online via the Vodacom website. Required documents include academic transcripts, ID copies, and proof of acceptance at a university.
8. ABSA Bursary Programme
Overview
ABSA offers bursaries to students pursuing degrees in finance, economics, actuarial science, mathematics, and statistics.
Requirements
- South African citizenship.
- Strong academic performance.
- Financial need.
Benefits
- Tuition fees.
- Accommodation.
- Book allowances.
- Monthly stipend.
Application Process
Applications are submitted online on the ABSA website. Applicants must provide academic transcripts, ID copies, and proof of acceptance at a university.
9. Transnet Bursary
Overview
Transnet provides bursaries to students pursuing engineering and technical degrees.
Requirements
- South African citizenship.
- Strong academic performance in Mathematics and Science.
- Enrollment in a recognized South African university.
Benefits
- Tuition fees.
- Accommodation.
- Book allowances.
- Computer allowance.
Application Process
Applications are submitted online via the Transnet website. Required documents include academic transcripts, ID copies, and proof of acceptance at a university.
10. Shoprite Bursary
Overview
Shoprite offers bursaries to students pursuing degrees in retail, pharmacy, supply chain management, and logistics.
Requirements
- South African citizenship.
- Strong academic performance.
- Enrollment in a recognized South African university.
Benefits
- Tuition fees.
- Accommodation.
- Book allowances.
- Work-back agreement with Shoprite upon graduation.
Application Process
Applications are submitted online on the Shoprite website. Required documents include academic transcripts, ID copies, and proof of acceptance at a university.
Conclusion
Securing a bursary can greatly reduce the financial burden of higher education and open up opportunities for South African students to achieve their academic and career goals. Each bursary has its own set of requirements and benefits, so it is essential to thoroughly research and prepare your application to maximize your chances of success. Whether you are pursuing a degree in engineering, finance, teaching, or any other field, there are numerous bursary opportunities available to support your educational journey in 2024.