Latest Bursaries Open in South Africa 2026 (Updated List)

If you are searching for latest bursaries South Africa 2026, this guide gives you a real, updated list of funding opportunities currently available or recently open for the 2026 academic year. With rising education costs, bursaries open now in South Africa provide a crucial opportunity for students to study without financial stress.

Quick Answer: The latest bursaries open in South Africa 2026 include government programmes like Funza Lushaka, private company bursaries such as Standard Bank, and sector bursaries in engineering, finance, and teaching. Apply early and always use official application portals.

Table of Contents

• Latest Bursaries Open Now
• Bursaries Closing Soon
• Types of Bursaries
• How to Apply
• Common Mistakes
• Tips to Get Approved
• FAQ

Latest Bursaries Open Now in South Africa 2026

Below are real bursaries with confirmed timelines or active application windows:

1. Funza Lushaka Bursary 2026

This is one of the most popular government bursaries for teaching students.

• Covers: Tuition, accommodation, books, and allowance
• Fields: Education (B.Ed)
• Official site: Apply Here

Applications opened in October 2025 and closed around January–February 2026. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

2. Standard Bank Bursary 2026

This bursary supports students in finance, commerce, and engineering.

• Application period: May – September
• Fields: Finance, Data Science, Engineering
• Apply: Apply Here

Applications typically run mid-year, giving students time to prepare documents. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

3. Sasol Bursary Programme

A highly competitive bursary for STEM students.

• Fields: Engineering, Science, Technology
• Applications: April – May cycle
• Apply: Apply Here

For the upcoming cycle, applications open around April each year. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

4. ISFAP Bursary Programme

Supports missing middle students who do not qualify for NSFAS.

• Fields: Various degrees
• Apply: Apply Here

This bursary focuses on students needing financial support beyond NSFAS limits. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

5. NSFAS (Closed but Important)

Although NSFAS is currently closed, it remains one of the biggest funding options.

• Apply: NSFAS Portal

Applications for 2026 closed in late 2025. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

6. Private Sector Bursaries (Multiple)

These include:

• Shoprite Bursary
• PwC Bursary
• KPMG Bursary
• Anglo American Bursary
• Transnet Bursary
• Eskom Bursary

Most of these close between October and November annually. :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}

Bursaries Closing Soon

Many bursaries for 2026 close early in the year. Some major deadlines fall between January and April. :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

If you missed early applications, focus on mid-year bursaries like Standard Bank or upcoming 2027 cycles.

Types of Bursaries in South Africa

Government Bursaries

Funded by departments like education and health. Often require work-back agreements.

Corporate Bursaries

Offered by companies to develop future employees.

Private Funding Programmes

Organisations like ISFAP support students based on financial need.

How to Apply for Bursaries in South Africa

Follow these steps:

1. Find a bursary that matches your field
2. Check eligibility requirements
3. Prepare documents (ID, results, proof of income)
4. Apply through the official website
5. Track your application

Always use official portals and avoid third-party scams.

Common Bursary Application Mistakes

• Missing deadlines
• Submitting incomplete forms
• Uploading uncertified documents
• Applying for bursaries you don’t qualify for

These mistakes can lead to immediate rejection.

Tips to Increase Your Chances

• Apply early
• Double-check all documents
• Write a strong motivation letter
• Apply to multiple bursaries

Consistency and preparation significantly improve your success rate.

What To Do Next

Now that you know the latest bursaries open in South Africa 2026, start applying immediately. Opportunities close quickly, and missing deadlines means waiting another year.

Explore more verified opportunities on JobTree to stay updated with bursaries, internships, and entry-level opportunities.

FAQ

What bursaries are open now in South Africa 2026?

Funza Lushaka, Standard Bank, Sasol cycles, and various private bursaries are among the latest available opportunities.

When do bursaries open in South Africa?

Most open between May and October each year depending on the provider.

Can I apply for multiple bursaries?

Yes, applying to multiple bursaries increases your chances of funding.

What documents are needed?

ID, academic results, proof of income, and sometimes a motivation letter.

Are bursaries free?

Most bursaries are fully funded but may require a work-back agreement.

Where can I apply safely?

Always apply through official bursary websites and trusted platforms.