Best Bursaries in South Africa: Key Benefits and Steps to Apply

Are you looking for the best bursaries in South Africa? Well, we will help you find the best one that aligns with your academic goals and financial needs. With our comprehensive guide, you can explore a list of the top and latest bursaries available in South Africa that can open doors for you to more professional opportunities.

If you are someone considering going to a university but struggling to find the means to pay for your education, securing a bursary is the best option. A bursary will help you finance your studies and fulfil your academic goals by covering all the costs associated with education.

In this article, we will help you understand the role of the best bursary in more detail, exploring its benefits, eligibility criteria, and steps in the application process for a successful bursary application.

Table of Contents

• What are the Best Bursaries in South Africa?
• Key Benefits of Securing a Top Bursary
• Comprehensive List of Bursaries in South Africa
• Eligibility Criteria for Best Bursaries in South Africa
• How to Apply for Best Bursaries in South Africa?
• Conclusion
• Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Best Bursaries in South Africa?

In South Africa, you will find numerous bursaries suitable for your education journey. Many private companies, government bodies, education institutions and non-profit organisations provide bursaries to help you cover your education expenses, including tuition fees, book costs, equipment costs, accommodation, and other related expenses.

Besides, these entities offer funds, especially if you are from a low-income family with an excellent academic history. And since these entities offer bursaries catering to various fields, such as science, technology, arts, medicine, and more, you can rely on these awards to continue your education.

However, you may find it challenging to choose the best one among the numerous bursaries available in South Africa. Therefore, it is essential for you to understand the best bursaries and their benefits.

Key Benefits of Securing a Top Bursary

Securing the best bursary in South Africa offers many benefits for you, from reducing your debts to improving your career journey. So, let’s explore the key benefits of getting the top bursary:

• Offer Substantial Finance Relief:

Bursaries provide one of the best economic benefits of offering financial assistance. It covers tuition fees, books, accommodation, and other educational expenses. Hence, it reduces the financial burden of students, enabling them to focus on their studies.

• Enhance Your Educational Opportunities:

All bursaries in South Africa offer students access to resources like tutoring, mentorship programs, and internships. Besides, they will be exposed to new cultures, perspectives, and academic experiences, broadening their horizons and enhancing their academic performance.

Find out the top Masters Bursaries in South Africa for 2024.

• Provide Access to Professional Networks:

Since many of the best bursaries are sponsored by corporate companies and organisations, the learners can access a network of scholars, experienced professionals, and experts in various fields. This will foster valuable connections and increase professional development.

List of Bursaries in South Africa

Here is a list of the top bursaries in South Africa that you can secure to enhance your education in fields like accounting, law, computer science, MBA and Project Management. Let’s take a look:

Accounting Bursaries:

Accounting bursaries are meant to offer financial support for aspiring accountants. Hence, if you have a passion for the finance/ accounting sector, these are the best bursaries you will find:

• Bergrivier Municipality Bursary
• Cape Agulhas Municipality Bursary
• LGSETA Bursary
• NUMSA Bursary

Learn more about the accounting bursaries for 2024.

Law Bursaries:

Law is an exciting and rewarding career option that offers diverse career opportunities within the profession. Learners passionate about law and facing financial challenges can apply for bursaries to cover their education costs. Here are some of the best South African law bursaries:

• Baker Hughes Bursary
• Canon Collins Trust Leigh Day Scholarship
• Foskor Bursary
• Gauteng Provincial Treasury Bursary

Computer Science Bursaries

Computer science is one of the growing fields in South Africa, and it offers high-paying jobs and career opportunities. However, there is a shortage of talent in this field. Thus, if you are someone with a passion for computers and want to bridge the gap in the market but lack the funding, computer science bursaries are a great option. Take a look at the best bursaries for computer science:

• BBD Bursary:
• Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary:
• Games Global Bursary:
• Investec Bursary:

Check out the steps to take to get computer science bursaries for 2024.

MBA Bursaries

If you want to go beyond your undergraduate qualifications and study further with a postgraduate education in business administration, explore the top bursaries mentioned below:

• UNISA postgraduate Bursary South Africa 2024-25
• MUFS Honours & Masters Bursary South Africa 2024-25
• Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship South Africa 2024-25

Project Management Bursaries:

Project management bursaries enhance the education and professional development of aspiring managers, ensuring talented and skilful project managers in the market. Check out the best bursaries that come under the project management field:

• Oasis Bursary
• Power Group Bursary
• Department of Public Works Bursary
• Department of Water & Sanitation Bursary

Eligibility Criteria for Best Bursaries in South Africa

To secure the top bursaries in South Africa, you must meet the criteria set by the bursary programme to be eligible. Given below are some key factors that the selection committee checks in your application to choose you as the bursary awardee:

• Academic Performance:

You must have high academic performance and grades to qualify for a bursary. Most bursary providers determine this requirement through your minimum grade point average and specific marks in relevant subjects.

• Financial Need:

Another key requirement for eligibility is your financial situation. Since most of the best bursaries are provided to students from underprivileged backgrounds, you must give them genuine reasons for your need for financial assistance. You can provide proof of family income, pay slips, tax returns, and other relevant documents.

• Field of Study:

Almost all bursaries in South Africa are targeted towards specific fields of study. For example, a bursary provided by an engineering firm applies to students wishing to pursue a career in engineering, while a healthcare bursary is for medical students.

Find out the top undergraduate bursaries and postgraduate bursaries.

• Citizenship in South Africa:

South African bursaries require the applicants to be of South African origin. Hence, when applying for the best bursaries in South Africa, provide your ID documents or passport to prove your citizenship.

• Involvement in Extracurricular Activities:

The selection committee for bursaries looks for learners who actively participate in extracurricular activities. These can include community service, leadership qualities, or involvement in the arts or sports.

How to Apply for Best Bursaries in South Africa?

For applying the top bursaries in South Africa, there is a systematic way to approach it. Here, we have given a step-by-step guide for you to seamlessly apply for your bursary:

• Look for the Best Bursaries:

Research top available bursaries in South Africa that align with your field of study and financial circumstances. You can check out government departments, universities, and companies offering bursaries.

• Gather Your Necessary Documents:

After researching the top bursaries available, you can gather the necessary documents and records. These include academic transcripts, identification documents, proof of income, and a motivational letter.

• Fill Out the Application Forms:

Visit the bursary providers’ websites and complete your application form. However, make sure you provide accurate data while filling in your information. Therefore, proofread and double-check your applications before submitting them.

• Submit Your Applications:

Now, you have reached the step to submit your application form. However, you should always make sure that you submit your application before the deadline. Therefore, keep track of the last day of submission for every bursary you are applying to.

• Track Your Application Status:

Once you have submitted your application, you should ensure the selection committee has received your application form and necessary documents. You can check your email and their application portal to know the status of your application.

Conclusion

When you receive a bursary in South Africa, it will definitely reduce your financial pressures. In other words, a bursary will enable you to concentrate on your studies and score your academic goals. Hence, to boost your chances of getting the best bursaries in South Africa, you must have a deep understanding of the key benefits, eligibility criteria, and application process of bursaries. However, you should always remember to thoroughly research, closely prepare documents and deliver applications before the due dates. Therefore, take this chance as a long-term investment and drive a successful educational journey.

Get your course quotation and bursary insights from Regenesys! Contact our career counsellors to plan your studies and secure funding in South Africa today.

Frequently Asked Questions: Best Bursaries in South Africa

Q1) How can I find the best bursaries available in South Africa?

You can find the best bursaries available in South Africa by visiting the websites of government departments, universities, private companies, and non-profit organisations.

Q2) Who offers bursaries in South Africa?

In South Africa, a wide range of institutions provide bursaries, including government departments, non-profit organisations, private companies and educational institutions.

Q3) What are the benefits of securing a bursary?

The key benefit of securing a bursary is that it covers education expenses, from tuition fees to accommodation. Besides, it enhances educational opportunities and provides access to professional networks.

Q4) How will I know if I have been awarded a bursary?

You will know you have been awarded a bursary through email or the application portal. Therefore, check your email regularly and follow the instructions set by the provider to accept the award.

Q5) What fields of study are most commonly supported by bursaries in South Africa?

Bursaries most commonly support studies in science, technology, accounting, law, education, and business administration in South Africa.