List of General Bursaries 2027 for South Africa Students

South African students can access a wide range of general bursaries for 2027. 

These bursaries support studies across many fields and are not limited to specific degrees like engineering or teaching. 

They include funding from government agencies, corporate organisations, foundations, and merit‑based awards.

General bursaries can help cover tuition, accommodation, books, living allowances, and sometimes even stipends for students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds.

General Bursaries open for 2027 applications

Below are important general bursaries you can consider for 2027:

1. National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) – government funding for all study fields, including undergraduate and postgraduate students.
2. Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP) – comprehensive funding (tuition, accommodation, living costs).
3. Anglo American Bursary – corporate bursary supporting students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
4. Sasol Bursary Programme – funding for various fields including business and technical studies.
5. Motsepe Foundation Bursary – full tuition plus allowance for academically gifted students.
6. FirstRand Bursary – bursary for commerce, finance, IT, and related studies.
7. Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Bursary – funding plus leadership development opportunities.
8. Old Mutual Foundation Bursary – corporate bursary for various study fields.
9. Standard Bank Top Achiever Bursary – support for high‑performing students.
10. National Research Foundation (NRF) Bursaries – postgraduate research funding.
11. Telkom Foundation Bursary – opportunities for students across fields.
12. Mastercard Foundation Scholarship – merit and need‑based award that may cover study and living costs.
13. PPS Foundation Bursary – bursary for various disciplines, including social sciences.
14. Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) – international scholarship bodies that South African students can apply to.

These bursaries generally open and close at different times during the year, and you must check official provider dates.

Who is eligible for general bursaries in South Africa

Eligibility criteria vary by bursary, but the most common requirements are:

1. You must be a South African citizen or permanent resident.
2. You must be studying or intending to study at a recognised public or private institution.
3. You must have an acceptable academic record (grades vary by bursary).
4. You must show financial need for need‑based awards.
5. Some bursaries require specific fields, community work, or leadership experience.

Always confirm the eligibility criteria on the official application page.

How to apply for general bursaries in South Africa

Follow these steps to apply:

1. Identify bursaries that match your field and eligibility.
2. Go to the bursary’s official application portal.
3. Prepare required documents such as a certified ID, latest results, proof of registration or acceptance, and proof of income.
4. Complete the online application form or download the form if required.
5. Upload documents and submit before the closing date.

Applying early and preparing all supporting documents increases your chances of success.

When do bursary applications open and close

General bursary application timelines differ by provider:

1. NSFAS bursary applications for 2027 usually open in September 2026.
2. Corporate and foundation bursaries often open between March and August 2026.
3. Some bursaries close as early as June or July 2026.

Always check the specific closing dates on each bursary’s official page before applying.

Documents needed for general bursary applications

You will typically need the following:

1. Certified copy of your South African ID.
2. Matric certificate or latest tertiary results.
3. Proof of acceptance or registration at a South African accredited institution.
4. Proof of household income or financial need.
5. CV or motivational letter if requested.
6. Academic references if required.

Make sure all documents are up to date and certified.

Contact details for general bursaries in South Africa

1. National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)
   Contact Centre: 08000 67327
   Email: info@nsfas.org.za
2. Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP)
3. Motsepe Foundation
4. Anglo American Zimele Bursary
5. Allan Gray Orbis Foundation

These contacts and portals are gateways to the most prominent general bursaries open to South African students for 2027.