The best bursary in South Africa provides full financial support for students while offering career development opportunities. Leading companies such as Shoprite, Sasol, Allan Gray, FirstRand, Sanlam, and Investec offer bursaries that cover tuition, accommodation, textbooks, and other essential expenses. These bursaries also provide mentoring and work-readiness programmes, ensuring recipients gain both academic and professional growth.
Top Bursaries Offered by Leading Companies
Shoprite Bursary (Deadline: 30 April 2025)
- Covers degrees in Accounting (CA Stream – SAICA), Retail Business Management, Supply Chain & Logistics, Biological and Agricultural Sciences, and Food Science.
- Includes tuition, on-campus accommodation, and a monthly grocery allowance.
Allan Gray Fellowship Programme (Closing: 30 April 2025)
- Supports undergraduate studies in Arts, Commerce, Engineering, Health Sciences (excluding Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary), Humanities, Law, and Science.
- Available at WITS, UJ, UCT, NMU, RU, UWC, SU, UP, UFS, UKZN, or TSiBA.
Sasol Bursaries (Deadline: 18 May 2025)
- Covers undergraduate and postgraduate studies in Engineering, Chemistry, Data Science, and Cyber Security.
- Includes tuition, registration fees, books, pocket money, accommodation, meals, and vacation work opportunities.
Sanlam Bursary (Deadline: 30 June 2025)
- Supports undergraduate Actuarial Science students.
- Covers tuition, accommodation, books, pocket money, actuarial exam support, and career networking.
- Provides guaranteed employment and rotation opportunities after graduation.
FirstRand Empowerment Foundation (Deadline: Extended)
- Postgraduate bursary for one-year honours degree programmes.
- Household income must not exceed R600,000 per annum.
- Fields: Accounting, Actuarial Science, Agricultural Sciences, Business Information, Computer Science, Data Science, Economics, Engineering, Law, Mathematics, Physics, Renewable Energy, Statistics, and more.
Investec Tertiary Bursary Programme
- Supports financial sector-related degrees.
- Offers mentoring, work-readiness programmes, and guidance for the transition from high school to university.
- Applications open until 30 September 2025.
Teacher Development Bursaries
Investec, ISASA, and the Department of Basic Education offer bursaries for prospective Senior and FET teachers specializing in Mathematics and Science. Eligible candidates include school leavers, tertiary students, and graduates with relevant majors. Bursaries cover tuition, textbooks, and practical teaching experience.
Work Readiness and Mentorship Programmes
Investec bursary recipients participate in a week-long Work Readiness programme to develop professional skills. Mentorship from Investec staff provides ongoing guidance throughout the academic journey.
Why Apply for the Best Bursary in South Africa
Applying for the best bursary in South Africa reduces financial pressure, opens doors to career opportunities, and provides mentorship to ensure academic and professional success. Many bursary programmes also guarantee work placement or internship opportunities after graduation, giving students a head start in their careers.
FAQ – Best Bursary in South Africa
1. Who can apply for these bursaries?
Only South African citizens meeting the specific academic and income requirements of each bursary.
2. What costs do bursaries cover?
Most bursaries cover tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, meal allowances, and sometimes travel or equipment costs.
3. Are bursaries only for undergraduate studies?
No. Many bursaries also support postgraduate studies, honours, and even teacher development programmes.
4. Do bursaries offer career support?
Yes. Many provide mentoring, work-readiness programmes, vacation work, and guaranteed employment after graduation.
5. How do I apply?
Applications are submitted directly through the bursary provider’s official website or via the managing organization, such as StudyTrust or Investec.
6. When are the application deadlines?
Deadlines vary by bursary, ranging from April to September 2025. Check each provider for exact dates.
7. Can I apply for multiple bursaries at once?
Yes. Eligible students can submit applications for all bursaries they qualify for, increasing chances of selection.
