Bursaries in South Africa 2025

Bursaries are important in expanding access to higher education across South Africa. Each year, thousands of students apply for financial support to help cover the rising costs of tuition, accommodation, and study materials. According to the Department of Higher Education and Training, over 60% of university students in South Africa rely on some form of financial aid — with bursaries being among the most sought-after options.

Unlike student loans, bursaries do not need to be repaid. Most are awarded based on financial need, academic performance, or a combination of both. They provide an opportunity for students from disadvantaged backgrounds to study without the burden of long-term debt.

Whether you are a high school learner preparing for university, or already enrolled in a tertiary institution, applying for a bursary can make a real difference in your academic journey.

How to Apply for Bursaries

Before applying, it is important to understand the eligibility requirements, the documents needed, and how to write a strong motivation letter. We have written a complete step-by-step guide on how to apply for bursaries in South Africa, to help students avoid common mistakes and submit a successful application.

Top 10 Bursaries for 2025

There are hundreds of bursary programmes available in South Africa. To help you get started, we have shortlisted some of the top 10 bursaries for 2025 based on coverage, eligibility, and reputation. These include bursaries from trusted organisations like the South African Reserve Bank, Investec, and Shoprite.

Types of Bursaries

We have organised bursaries into categories to make it easier for students to find relevant opportunities based on their field of study or source of funding. You can explore bursaries under the following categories:

Why Bursaries Matter

Bursaries do more than just cover tuition — they change lives. For many students, they provide the only chance to access higher education. Bursaries also help to close the skills gap in critical fields like science, engineering, and healthcare by supporting students who are passionate about making a difference in their communities.

By applying for the right bursary and staying informed, students can avoid financial stress and focus fully on their education. Our goal at BursaryForms.co.za is to make that process easier by connecting you with the opportunities that match your academic and career goals.

Explore More

If you are ready to start your bursary application journey, begin by reading our helpful resources:

Keep checking this page and our bursary listings for updates on closing dates and newly released funding opportunities.