Commerce is one of the broadest study fields in South Africa and includes accounting, finance, economics, business management, marketing, and human resources.
Because these skills are in high demand, many government departments, banks, corporations, and education trusts offer bursaries to support commerce students.
These bursaries often cover tuition, books, accommodation, and sometimes include internships or job placement after graduation.
What are the main commerce bursaries available in South Africa for 2027?
Here are 50+ verified commerce bursaries across different sectors:
- ABSIP Bursary
- Adapt IT Bursary
- Agbiz Centenary Bursary
- Aon Bursary
- Brand South Africa Bursary
- Cenfri Bursary
- Clockwork Bursary
- Coronation Exceptional Student Bursary
- Donald White / Mandla Ndwanya Memorial Bursary
- Fairtree Bursary
- Ford Motor Company Bursary
- Genesis Educational Foundation Bursary
- Grand Gaming Bursary
- Hollywood Foundation Bursary
- Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) Bursary
- Indwe Risk Services Bursary
- INSETA Bursary
- Investec Bursary
- ITHUBA Bursary
- Katapult Business School Bursary
- KN Inzuzo Trust Bursary
- Moses Kotane Institute Bursary
- Old Mutual Imfundo Trust Scholarship
- SAPOA Bursary
- South African Reserve Bank (SARB) Bursary
- SARB Economics Bursary
- Stanlib Bursary
- TSIBA Business School Bursary
- VKB Group Bursary
- Volkswagen Community Trust Bursary
- Voltex Bursary
- Sasria Bursary
- Department of Tourism Bursary
- Shoprite Bursary Programme
- Allan Gray Fellowship
- FirstRand Foundation Trust Bursary
- Capitec Bank Bursary
- Public Investment Corporation (PIC) Bursary
- JSE Empowerment Fund Bursary
- Land Bank Bursary
- Santam Bursary
- Coronation Fund Managers Bursary
- Nedbank External Bursary
- Standard Bank Bursary
- Truworths Bursary
- Tiger Brands Bursary
- MTN Bursary
- Toyota South Africa Bursary
- Transnet Bursary
- TETA Bursary
- W&RSETA Bursary
- Provincial Government Bursaries
- Municipal Bursary Programmes
These bursaries come from sectors like banking, insurance, retail, logistics, and government institutions.
Who qualifies for commerce bursaries in South Africa?
Most bursaries share similar requirements.
- You must be a South African citizen with a valid ID.
- You must have strong academic results, especially in Mathematics and English.
- You must be studying or planning to study a commerce-related course.
- You must show financial need in many cases.
- You must be accepted into a recognised university.
Some bursaries also look for leadership skills and community involvement.
How do I apply for commerce bursaries for 2027?
Follow this clear process.
- Identify bursaries that match your course such as finance, marketing, or HR.
- Visit the official bursary website.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload required documents like ID, academic results, and proof of income.
- Submit your application before the closing date.
Most bursaries require complete documentation to be considered.
When do commerce bursaries close in South Africa?
Closing dates depend on each bursary provider.
- Many bursaries close between September and November.
- Some close earlier between March and June.
- Others remain open until January for late applications.
Always check the official portal for exact deadlines.
What courses are covered under commerce bursaries?
Commerce bursaries cover a wide range of qualifications.
- Accounting
- Finance
- Economics
- Business Management
- Marketing
- Human Resource Management
- Supply Chain Management
- Investment and Banking
These fields support careers in banking, insurance, corporate management, and public sector roles.
What do commerce bursaries cover?
Funding depends on the sponsor.
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Study materials
- Meals and living allowance
- Internship or work placement
Some bursaries offer full funding with guaranteed employment after graduation.
Contact details for commerce bursary enquiries
- NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme)
Website: https://www.nsfas.org.za
Email: info@nsfas.org.za - Industrial Development Corporation (IDC)
Website: https://www.idc.co.za
Email: info@idc.co.za - South African Reserve Bank (SARB)
Website: https://www.resbank.co.za - Career Wise
Website: https://www.careerwise.co.za
Email: info@careerwise.co.za
These organisations provide verified bursary information, support, and application assistance for commerce students in South Africa.
