Vodacom Merit Bursary South Africa

Vodacom Group Limited invites high-achieving South African students to apply for its 2026 Merit Bursary Programme, aimed at learners who have passed Matric with exemption and are pursuing full‑time undergraduate STEM studies at accredited South African institutions. The full bursary covers tuition, accommodation, meals, and career development support.

About the Bursary Provider

Vodacom is South Africa’s leading mobile communications company, committed to social development through education. Its bursary programme supports underserved students in STEM fields via financial aid, mentorship, and structured workplace exposure.

Fields Covered

The bursary supports full-time undergraduate studies in the following STEM fields:

  • Engineering: Electrical, Electronic, Computer, Computer Science, Actuarial Science
  • Science and Information Systems

Vodacom may consider postgraduate support at its discretion.

Expenses Covered

The bursary includes:

  • Registration and tuition fees
  • University accommodation or capped allowance for private accommodation
  • Textbook allowance
  • Meal allowance
  • Laptop and cellphone
  • Orientation workshops, vacation work, work‑readiness training, and access to Vodacom’s ICAS wellness programme

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet all of the following:

  • South African citizen by birth
  • Currently in Matric (with exemption) or in 1st, 2nd, or 3rd year of full-time undergraduate study in STEM fields
  • Matric: minimum 70% across all subjects; tertiary: minimum 65% average
  • Must demonstrate financial need
  • Not be currently receiving another bursary

How to Apply

Applications open 1 June 2025, closing 31 August 2025. Apply online only via Vodacom’s bursary portal. Upload certified copies of:

  • ID document
  • Matric certificate or latest academic transcript
  • Fee statement and proof of acceptance or registration
  • Proof of financial need
  • Parental consent form (if under 18)
  • Disclosure of other bursary funding

Once submitted, you’ll receive an email confirmation. Shortlisted candidates will progress through further assessments and interviews.

Closing Date

31 August 2025. Applications received after the deadline will not be considered. Outcome notifications are typically sent by 15 December 2025.

Contact the Bursary Provider

Vodacom Bursary Programme
Email: Externalbursaries@vodacom.co.za
Website: vodacom.com/bursary-programme

1. Who is eligible for the Vodacom bursary?
South African citizens by birth entering or studying full‑time in years 1–3 of a STEM undergraduate degree, with Matric exemption and strong academic averages.
2. Which subjects qualify?
STEM fields including Electrical/Electronic Engineering, Computer Science, Actuarial Science, Information Systems, and related science disciplines.
3. What academic results are required?
Matriculants require at least 70% across all subjects; tertiary students must maintain an average of 65% or higher.
4. What expenses are covered?
Tuition, accommodation or capped private allowance, meals, textbooks, a laptop, a cellphone, orientation, vacation work and wellness services.
5. How do I apply?
Apply online between 1 June–31 August 2025 via Vodacom’s bursary portal, registering an account and uploading certified documents.
6. What supporting documents are needed?
Certified ID, Matric or transcript, fee statement, proof of acceptance or registration, income proof, parental consent (if under 18), and bursary disclosures.
7. Is this bursary renewable?
Yes—renewal depends on satisfactory academic performance and ongoing financial need each year.
8. When will I hear back?
Vodacom aims to notify successful applicants by around 15 December 2025; no news likely means your application was not selected.
9. Does the bursary require service afterwards?
Recipients participate in vacation work placements; graduates may be offered entry-level roles at Vodacom—but no formal obligation is stated.
10. Who can I contact for assistance?
Email the bursary department at Externalbursaries@vodacom.co.za or use the bursary page contact form on Vodacom’s website.