Many bursary programmes in South Africa open new application cycles between April and May each year.
Students who plan to study in 2027 should begin tracking bursaries that open during this period.
Government departments, private companies, and foundations often launch funding opportunities for scarce skills fields in April.
These bursaries help students pay for tuition, accommodation, books, and living expenses at universities and TVET colleges.
Some programmes also provide mentorship, internships, and job placement after graduation.
Students should always apply through official portals and confirm closing dates directly with the bursary provider.
Which bursaries open in April for the 2027 academic year?
Several bursary schemes open applications around April each year.
These programmes support undergraduate and postgraduate students across many fields of study.
The following bursaries are opening/ closing around April 2026:
- Allan Gray Fellowship 2026: Closes 30 April 2026. Fully funded for Grade 12 learners pursuing university.
- City of Ekurhuleni Community Bursaries 2026: Closes 03 April 2026. For Gauteng students.
- Mandela Rhodes Scholarship 2026/2027: Closes 14 April 2026. Fully funded postgraduate opportunity.
- Hyundai Motor Group Scholarships 2026/2027: Closes 25 April 2026. For young Africans studying at SOAS.
- DSTI-NRF Master’s and Doctoral Funding 2026: New applications for postgraduate funding.
- Trans Hex Group Bursary 2026: Now open for engineering, geology, or marine sciences.
- Mezzanine Bursary Programme 2026: Now open. Supports first-year Computer Science students in the Western Cape.
- ETDP SETA Bursary 2026: Now open. Specialized funding for education students.
- SASCP Bursary Programme 2026: Now open for Crop Production students.
- SANA Bursary Programme 2026: For students in nursery-related fields.
- Armscor Bursary 2026: For science and engineering students.
- African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) Bursary 2026: For mining-related studies.
- AfriSam Bursary 2026: Engineering and technical fields.
- FMCSA Ford Bursary 2026: For automotive and related skills.
- Hortgro Bursary Programme 2026: For students in the deciduous fruit industry.
Which corporate bursaries open in April?
Several major South African companies offer bursaries that open around April.
These programmes aim to build future talent in engineering, finance, and technology.
Examples include the following.
- Shell Bursary Programme.
- Hulamin Bursary Programme.
- PG Group Bursary Programme.
- Worley Bursary Programme.
- Milkor Bursary Programme.
Students can find application details on each company’s official careers website.
Many corporate bursaries require strong academic results in mathematics and science.
Some programmes also require students to complete vacation work during university holidays.
What fields of study do April bursaries usually fund?
Most bursaries that open in April focus on scarce skills fields.
These fields are important for South Africa’s economic development.
Common funded programmes include the following.
- Engineering.
- Information Technology.
- Computer Science.
- Data Science.
- Accounting and Finance.
- Environmental Sciences.
- Mathematics and Statistics.
- Supply Chain Management.
Mining and energy companies also fund geology, metallurgy, and chemical engineering degrees.
Some foundations support entrepreneurship and business leadership programmes.
Who qualifies for bursaries opening in April?
Eligibility requirements vary depending on the bursary provider.
Most programmes require applicants to be South African citizens.
Students are usually required to meet minimum academic performance standards.
Many bursaries focus on students studying full time at accredited universities or TVET colleges.
Some programmes require strong results in mathematics and science.
Certain bursaries also include financial need as part of the eligibility criteria.
Applicants must read the official bursary guidelines carefully before applying.
What documents are required for April bursary applications?
Most bursary programmes require students to submit supporting documents with their applications.
These documents help bursary providers verify identity, academic performance, and financial circumstances.
The most commonly required documents include the following.
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Matric certificate or latest academic results
- Proof of university acceptance
- Updated curriculum vitae
- Motivational letter
- Proof of household income
Students should prepare these documents before applications open.
Having documents ready makes it easier to apply quickly once bursaries open.
How do you apply for bursaries that open in April?
Most bursary programmes accept online applications through official portals.
Students should prepare their documents before applications open.
The most common required documents include the following.
- Certified copy of South African ID.
- Matric certificate or latest academic transcript.
- Proof of university admission.
- Updated curriculum vitae.
- Motivational letter.
- Proof of household income.
Applications must be submitted through the official website of the bursary provider.
Students can find general education funding information on the South African government portal.
Students should avoid applying through unofficial websites or social media links.
Where can students find official bursary application portals?
Students should always verify bursary information using official institutional websites.
Many organisations publish bursary details on their careers or education funding pages.
Students should check these websites regularly during March and April.
Many bursaries remain open for only a few weeks after applications begin.
Applying early improves the chances of securing financial support for the 2027 academic year.
