The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is now open for applications for its 2026 full-time Health Sciences bursary, dedicated to qualifying Western Cape residents pursuing critical health-related studies, with a firm commitment to public service upon completion.

About the Bursary Provider

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is responsible for public healthcare across the province—managing over 400 clinics and several hospitals. Through its bursary programme, it aims to address healthcare skills shortages by supporting students in vital fields and requiring service back to the province upon graduation.

Fields Covered

Bursaries are available for full-time study in these fields:

  • Medicine (MBChB)
  • Nursing (BDegree, BTech, Diploma, Higher Certificate)
  • Pharmacy
  • Radiography (Diagnostic, Therapy, Ultrasound)
  • Physiotherapy
  • Occupational Therapy
  • Speech Therapy
  • Emergency Medical Care & Emergency Care Assistant
  • Dental Surgery (BSc)

Fields offered may vary annually based on service delivery needs.

Expenses Covered

The bursary provides financial assistance towards registration, tuition, and examination fees. Accommodation and travel costs are not included.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Be a South African citizen residing in the Western Cape
  • Have completed Matric
  • Be accepted to study full-time in one of the eligible health science fields
  • Have no criminal record
  • Be committed to completing required clinical/community service hours

Provincial health bursaries are offered based on academic merit and service delivery needs.

How to Apply

1. Ensure acceptance at an accredited HEI in a qualifying field.

2. Register on the Western Cape Health bursary portal and complete the online form.

3. Upload certified documents:

  • ID document
  • Matric certificate/results or recent academic results
  • Proof of residence
  • Proof of household income
  • Proof of disability, if applicable
  • Motivational letter

Submit application via the bursary portal before the deadline.

Closing Date

30 September 2025 at 23:59. Late submissions are not accepted.

Contact the Bursary Provider

Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness
Contacts:
Monray Strydom – Tel: 021 483 6610 | Email: Monray.Strydom@westerncape.gov.za
Sisipho Folose – Tel: 021 483 6597 | Email: Sisipho.Folose@westerncape.gov.za
Nathan Kantwe – Tel: 021 483 7038 | Email: Nathan.Kantwe@westerncape.gov.za

1. Who can apply?
South African citizens living in the Western Cape, with Matric, accepted for full-time health sciences study at an accredited HEI.
2. Which study fields qualify?
Fields include Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Radiography, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, Emergency Medical Care, and Dental Surgery.
3. What costs are covered?
The bursary covers registration, tuition, and exam fees—but does not cover accommodation or travel.
4. Is there a service obligation?
Yes. Students sign a contract and must complete community service/internship commitments and work back years to the province after qualification.
5. How do I apply?
Apply online on the Western Cape Health bursary portal; upload certified ID, Matric, results, proof of residence/income, disability docs (if needed), and a motivational letter.
6. When is the closing date?
Applications close on 30 September 2025 at 23:59. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
7. What determines funding availability?
Funding is awarded based on academic merit and the department’s service delivery needs in specific fields each year.
8. Can I apply if I’m already studying?
Yes—current students in qualifying fields may apply, provided they still meet academic and service requirements.
9. What happens if I fail a year?
If you fail, you must repeat the year at your own cost; the bursary resumes in the next academic year upon successful completion.
10. Who do I contact for queries?
Contact Monray Strydom (021 483 6610), Sisipho Folose (021 483 6597), or Nathan Kantwe (021 483 7038) at the Western Cape Department of Health.