The GCR Academy Bursary is offered by the Gauteng City Region Academy under the Gauteng Department of Education.
It is designed to support students from the Gauteng province who want to study at an accredited and registered Post School Education and Training institution in South Africa.
The bursary is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications across a wide range of fields.
Students from various backgrounds, including top achievers and those with financial need, can apply if they meet the criteria.
Funding is provided to help develop a skilled workforce that contributes to sustainable economic development in Gauteng.
Eligibility criteria for the GCR Academy Bursary
Eligibility criteria for the GCR Academy bursary include the following.
- The applicant must be a South African citizen.
- The applicant must reside within the Gauteng province.
- The applicant must be between 18 and 35 years old when applying.
- The applicant must have completed matric in Gauteng.
- The applicant must be accepted or registered to study at an accredited Post School Education and Training institution.
Top achievers from Gauteng schools may automatically qualify but still need to complete the online application.
Meeting the minimum eligibility requirements does not guarantee funding because the bursary is competitive.
What does the GCR Academy bursary cover?
The bursary can provide comprehensive support for study related expenses.
The funding coverage typically includes the following.
- Registration fees paid to the institution.
- Tuition fees paid directly to the institution.
- Accommodation support both on campus and off campus.
- Book and laptop allowances.
- Living allowance for students in off‑campus or private accommodation.
Registration and tuition are usually paid directly to the institution, while allowances for books, laptops and living costs are often paid directly to students.
Students should confirm specific amounts and allowances for the 2027 cycle on the official bursary portal.
What documents are required for the GCR Academy bursary application?
Students must upload certified and clear supporting documents during the online application process.
Commonly required documents include the following.
- Certified copy of a South African identity document.
- Matric certificate or latest academic results.
- Proof of acceptance or registration at an accredited higher education institution.
- Proof of Gauteng residence such as a utility bill or ward councillor letter.
- Proof of household income or parental income affidavit.
- Motivational letter explaining why funding is required.
- Disability or medical report where applicable.
All documents should be certified and not older than three months where required.
Incomplete applications or missing documents may lead to the application not being considered.
How to apply for the GCR Academy bursary
Applications must be submitted online through the official GCRA bursary portal.
Students should take the following steps.
- Visit the official GCRA bursary website.
- Register a new account or log in if already registered.
- Complete the online application form with personal and academic details.
- Upload all required certified supporting documents.
- Review the application to make sure all information is correct.
- Submit the application before the closing date.
Students should avoid submitting applications through unofficial websites or social media links.
Shortlisted candidates are normally contacted by email or phone after the closing date.
When do GCR Academy bursary applications open and close?
The official opening and closing dates for the 2027 bursary cycle are usually announced on the bursary portal.
For the previous cycle, bursary applications closed on 28th February 2026.
Students should monitor the official portal for updates about the 2027 application window.
Applying early and before the closing date improves the chances of having the application considered.
Contact information for the GCR Academy Bursary
Students should use official contact information for accurate enquiries and assistance.
The following contacts are associated with the bursary programme:
- GCRA Bursary Help Desk
Email: Bursaries.Gcra@gauteng.gov.za
Phone (general enquiries): 0800 000 789 or 011 355 0000 - Alternative contact for GCRA renewals
Email: Bursaries.Gcra@gauteng.gov.za
Office hours are typically Monday to Friday from 8 am to 4 pm, excluding public holidays.
Students should always confirm contact details on the official bursary portal before reaching out.
