The John Davidson Educational Trust invites eligible students to apply for the 2025 academic year. This opportunity is aimed at South African postgraduate students who meet the qualifying criteria and are pursuing studies in eligible fields.

About the Bursary Provider

The John Davidson Educational Trust is a longstanding philanthropic organisation founded in 1955. The Trust plays a vital role in supporting advanced education in South Africa, offering financial assistance to help develop skilled professionals in the fields of engineering and accounting.

Fields Covered

The bursary covers studies in the following field(s):

  • Engineering (Postgraduate Diploma, Honours, or Masters) — excluding Architecture.
  • Accounting (Postgraduate Diploma, Honours, or Masters)

Expenses Covered

The bursary will cover:

  • Tuition fees (for the postgraduate year)
  • Other essential academic expenses (as required)

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following minimum entry criteria:

  • Must be a South African citizen.
  • Must have completed a relevant undergraduate degree and intend to study or be studying for a Postgraduate Diploma, Honours or Master’s qualification in 2025.
  • Must be studying or intend to study in one of the eligible fields listed. (Engineering or Accounting)
  • Must be enrolled at or accepted into a recognised and accredited institution — specifically one of the following:
    • University of Cape Town (UCT)
    • University of the Witwatersrand (WITS)
    • University of KwaZulu‑Natal (UKZN)
    • Rhodes University (RU)
  • Must have achieved a minimum overall average of 60% in the undergraduate degree.
  • Must demonstrate financial need.

This page was updated on October 24, 2025 to provide the most current bursary information.

Indicate “www.bursaryforms.co.za” when asked how you heard about this bursary.

How to Apply

To apply, download and complete the official application form:

John Davidson Educational Trust Application Form 2025

Submit clear, certified copies of the following documents with the completed form:

  • South African ID document
  • Matric certificate or statement of symbols (for undergraduate degree) — as applicable
  • Academic record or latest transcript (undergraduate and any current postgraduate study)
  • Proof of registration or acceptance into a postgraduate qualification at one of the eligible universities
  • Proof of income (parent or guardian) or any document showing financial need
  • Proof of residence (if required by university)
  • Motivational letter addressed to the Trustees of the Trust
  • A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Applications must be submitted via: your university’s Postgraduate Financial Aid / Funding Office as indicated on the application form.

Related Bursaries in South Africa

Apply for multiple bursaries in South Africa to increase your chances of receiving funding this year.

Closing Date

7 February 2025

Ensure that you submit your application before the deadline. Late applications will not be considered.

Contact the Bursary Provider

For queries, contact:
John Davidson Educational Trust (via your university’s Postgraduate Funding Office)
Website: JDET Application Form 2025 PDF

Please note there is no direct public email address or phone number listed for the Trust itself. Applicants should engage via their university’s funding office.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Who can apply for the John Davidson Educational Trust bursary?
South African citizens who are registered or intend to register for a full-time postgraduate qualification (Postgraduate Diploma, Honours or Master’s) in Engineering or Accounting at UCT, WITS, UKZN or Rhodes University in 2025 may apply.
2. Which fields of study are eligible?
The fields eligible for this bursary are Engineering (excluding Architecture) and Accounting at postgraduate level.
3. Does the bursary cover more than one year of study?
No. This bursary is awarded for one academic year only.
4. What academic average is required?
4. What academic average is required?
Applicants must have achieved at least a 60% overall average in their undergraduate studies to be considered eligible.
5. How do I submit my application?
You must submit your completed application form and supporting documents to your university’s Postgraduate Funding or Financial Aid Office. Direct submission to the Trust is not permitted.
6. What is the closing date for applications?
The closing date for 2025 is 7 February 2025. Applications submitted after this date will not be considered.
7. Will I be notified if my application is unsuccessful?
Only successful candidates are communicated via their universities. If you receive no feedback, you should assume your application was not successful.
8. Can I apply if I am already enrolled for postgraduate study?
Yes. Current postgraduate students meeting the eligibility criteria may apply for the 2025 academic year.
9. Does the bursary cover accommodation or monthly allowance?
The main coverage is tuition fee for one academic year. Other expenses may be considered but are not guaranteed.
10. What supporting documents are required?
You must submit the completed application form, undergraduate transcript, motivational letter, CV, formal fee estimation, and signed consent/declaration.

Before you apply for any bursary, make sure you have a clear plan. Download our comprehensive Bursary Application Checklist to stay organized, submit your documents correctly, and increase your chances of success.

Bursary Application Checklist