South Africa’s healthcare system relies heavily on well-trained professionals across various medical and health sciences disciplines.
However, studying towards a medical qualification can be costly. Medical bursaries are therefore essential in helping students from all backgrounds access the training needed to contribute to the country’s health services.
Below is a comprehensive overview of medical and health-related fields where students may find bursary opportunities for the 2026 academic year.
Audiology
Audiologists assess and treat hearing and balance disorders. They work in hospitals, schools, and private practices, playing a key role in early detection of hearing loss and rehabilitation.
Biochemistry
Biochemists study chemical processes within living organisms. They work in medical research, diagnostics, pharmaceutical development, and clinical laboratories.
Dietetics & Nutrition
Dietitians and nutritionists advise individuals and institutions on diet and nutrition to promote health and manage disease. They work in hospitals, clinics, schools, and the food industry.
Dental & Dentistry
Dentists diagnose and treat conditions affecting teeth, gums, and related mouth structures. Dental bursaries often cover tuition and clinical expenses due to the highly practical nature of the field.
Emergency Medical Care
Professionals in this field provide pre-hospital emergency care and ambulance services. Qualifications range from basic life support to advanced paramedic training.
Ergonomics
Ergonomists design safe and efficient systems and environments by understanding how people interact with equipment and spaces. This field is important in healthcare, occupational safety, and rehabilitation.
General Medical Studies
General medical students pursue an MBChB or similar qualification to become medical doctors. Bursaries typically support studies at public medical schools and often require work-back contracts in public hospitals or rural communities.
Health Science & Health-Related Fields
This includes interdisciplinary studies that support public health, epidemiology, health policy, environmental health, and allied health sciences. These programmes prepare students for both clinical and administrative roles.
Hygiene
Specialists in hygiene focus on disease prevention and sanitation practices in public and workplace environments. Their work contributes significantly to community and occupational health.
Nursing
Nurses form the backbone of the healthcare sector, providing care in hospitals, clinics, and communities. Nursing bursaries support diploma and degree qualifications at public and private institutions.
Optometry
Optometrists assess, diagnose, and treat vision disorders. Bursaries in this field are often available through universities or health departments aiming to address shortages in vision care.
Occupational Therapy
Occupational therapists help people regain independence after injury, illness, or disability. This field requires both scientific knowledge and practical training.
Orthotics and Prosthetics
These healthcare professionals design and fit devices like artificial limbs (prostheses) and orthopaedic supports (orthoses). Bursaries are offered for study programmes specialising in rehabilitation sciences.
Pharmacy
Pharmacists prepare and dispense medication, advise on drug therapies, and ensure safe pharmaceutical care. Bursaries in pharmacy often include internships and community service requirements.
Physiotherapy
Physiotherapists assist patients with physical rehabilitation following injury or illness. This profession is vital for restoring mobility and managing pain.
Psychology
Psychologists study human behaviour and provide mental health support through assessment, counselling, and therapy. They work in schools, clinics, hospitals, and private practice.
Radiography
Radiographers use imaging technology (e.g., X-rays, MRI) to assist in diagnosis and treatment. This field requires technical expertise and attention to detail.
Speech & Hearing Therapy
These therapists help individuals with speech, language, and auditory disorders. Their work is critical in education, rehabilitation, and developmental care.
2026 Bursaries For Medical Studies In South Africa
Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa Bursaries