Postgraduate Bursaries in South Africa for 2024

Are you someone who completed your undergraduate studies and is looking for funding for your postgraduate studies in South Africa? If your answer is yes, then you are in the right place to get the best insights into postgraduate bursaries for 2024. 

As we know, with the rising costs of higher education, securing funding for postgraduate studies takes time and effort. However, to our relief, in South Africa, there are numerous organisations and institutions that offer bursaries to help students fund their studies. These bursaries are financial awards provided to learners to attend schools, universities or colleges when they do not have the financial means to cover the expenses associated with education. In other words, bursaries reduce the financial burden of the students, enabling them to pursue their educational dreams. 

In this article, we will walk you through the best bursaries for 2024 postgraduate studies. Continue to read for more insights!

What are Postgraduate Bursaries?

Postgraduate bursaries are monetary awards offered to individuals to cover their postgraduate study-related expenses. Multiple organisations, institutions, and government bodies offer these bursaries to help students with financial assistance to pursue postgraduate education. Not to mention! These bursaries are highly valuable for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds since they cover tuition fees, living expenses, accommodation costs, and other additional fees associated with education. As a result, postgraduate bursaries allow learners to focus on their academic pursuits without the pressure of financial constraints. 

Importance of Postgraduate Bursaries

Postgraduate bursaries like LLB, Computer Science and MBA bursaries in South Africa have become a bright prospect for students pursuing higher education. They solve students’ financial dilemmas by assisting them with tuition fees, accommodation expenses, and more. In other words, these bursaries are impacting students, educational institutions, and society as a whole by shaping the future of higher education. So, in this section, we have provided some key points that indicate the significance of postgraduate bursaries:

Offers Financial Support:

One key importance of postgraduate bursaries is that they reduce the financial barriers to higher education. Bursaries support students, particularly those from low-income backgrounds, by providing them with financial assistance to manage the high expenses associated with postgraduate degrees. 

Encourages Advanced Studies:

With the help of bursaries, more students are considering pursuing postgraduate education. These bursaries serve as an incentive and financial encouragement for students, especially those who can’t afford higher studies, to undertake postgraduate education and contribute to building a skilled workforce. 

Promotes Research and Innovation:

Since bursaries support research projects, they facilitate the advancement of knowledge and innovation across multiple fields. It enables students to drive significant research that can lead to breakthroughs and discoveries. As a result, postgraduate bursaries help develop highly talented professionals who can contribute to overall societal progress. 

Types of Postgraduate Bursaries

Postgraduate bursaries are diverse and offer various opportunities for students, allowing them to pursue academic goals without the pressure of being in debt. Besides, these bursaries are awarded to students based on various criteria. In this section, we will go through each type of postgraduate bursary. They are as follows:

Merit-based Postgraduate Bursaries:

As the name suggests, merit-based postgraduate bursary programmes are offered to students based on their academic or professional accomplishments. These bursaries recognise and reward students with high grade point averages, academic awards, and other notable performances in their previous studies or professional fields. 

Financial Aid Postgraduate Bursaries:

Financial aid postgraduate bursary programmes are for students who need financial assistance. These bursaries enable students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue advanced education and will not be excluded from higher education opportunities because of financial constraints.

Field-specific Postgraduate Bursaries:

This type of bursary is awarded to students who are pursuing studies in a particular field. For example, there are bursaries for students in fields like law, technology, business, or public management. These bursaries are often funded by institutions or organisations that want to encourage education and research in specific fields. 

Steps to Apply for Postgraduate Bursaries

When you are applying for postgraduate bursary programmes, there are specific steps you need to follow to ensure a seamless bursary application process. Also, considering these steps helps you land a suitable bursary programme that aligns with your academic requirements and needs. Therefore, in this section, we will discuss the ways to navigate the postgraduate bursary application procedures:

Eligibility Criteria for Postgraduate Bursaries:

One key step in applying for postgraduate bursary programmes is passing the eligibility criteria. The criteria can vary for each bursary, but they generally include factors like academic achievement, financial background, and field of study. Therefore, before applying for the bursary, you must ensure whether you are eligible for the bursary application. 

Required Documentation for Post-Grad Bursaries:

Documents help you showcase your qualifications and suitability for a bursary. Most of the bursary programmes commonly request the following documents:

• A certified copy of the ID document
• Matric final results or certificate 
• Proof of university application or acceptance 
• Quotation from the institution for all study-related costs
• Proof of financial need
• Motivational letter
• Proof of residence

You must ensure all the collected documents are accurate and up-to-date, aligning with the guidelines of the bursary provider for a smooth and successful application.

Application Process for Postgraduate Bursaries:

After understanding your eligibility and collecting all the necessary documents, you must identify suitable bursary programmes that align with your academic goals and financial needs. Besides, you should understand each bursary programme’s application instructions and deadlines to increase your chances of securing the desired bursary. 

Overview of Postgraduate Bursaries for 2024

As we approach 2024, postgraduate bursary programmes will continue to be an important stepping stone for many learners. They will continue to support academic excellence and encourage innovation across fields by financially helping learners gain specialised knowledge and skills essential for the workforce. 

Hence, if you are someone preparing to increase your chances of securing bursaries for your postgraduate studies, you must be aware of the critical dates and deadlines for the 2024 bursary application. Let’s take a look:

Key Dates and Deadlines for 2024 Bursary Applications:

Here is the list of bursaries that are closing in May, June and July: 

Bursaries Closing In May 2024:

• Grand Gaming Bursary (closing on 31 May 2024)
• African Global Skills Academy/ Solarpop Bursary (closing on 31 May 2024)
• Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships (QECS) (closing on 24 May 2024)

Bursaries Closing in June 2024:

• Loughborough Development Trust Africa Scholarship – study in the UK (closing on 14 June 2024)
• BBD Bursary (applications are accepted anytime)
• Advance Africa Scholarship (applications are accepted anytime)

Bursaries Closing in July 2024: 

• JB Marks Education Trust Fund Bursary (closing on 1 July 2024)
• Ninety -One Bursary (closing on 31 July 2024)
• Nedbank Bursary (closing on 31 July 2024)

(Source: Bursaries OPEN for the 2024 academic years. Apply Now (zabursaries.co.za))

Top Bursaries for Postgraduate Studies in South Africa

With many postgraduate bursaries available in South Africa, including honours and master’s bursaries, choosing the right one is crucial. Therefore, in this section, we have selected the top South African postgraduate bursary programmes that come under government-funded and university-specific bursaries for you. We can also take a look at each of the bursary programme’s eligibility and document requirements. Let’s explore:

Government-funded Bursaries in South Africa: 

The South African government offers government-funded bursaries in South Africa to support learners with their educational costs. Here are the two top South African government-funded bursaries:

1. Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality Bursary:

Nelson Mandela Bay Municipality (NMBM) is offering an External Bursary programme that invites students for the academic year 2024. It is awarded to students residing in towns like Gqeberha, Kariega and Despatch. Besides, this bursary covers registration fees, tuition expenses and book costs. 

Awarded to Students Pursuing:

• Business Administration (Masters)
• Business Administration (Postgraduate Diploma)
• Public Administration (Postgraduate Diploma)
• Computer Science (Bachelor’s Degree)
• Bachelor of Law

Key Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a South African citizen
• Must have completed Matric
• Should have a proven financial need
• Have a minimum academic average of 60% in the 2023 academic year

Documents Needed:

• ID Documents 
• Matric final results or certificate
• Course outline and timetable for the duration of qualification 
• Proof of acceptance to the university 
• Quotation from the university/institution for all study-related expenses
• Proof Residence 
• Motivation Letter
• Parents or guardians’ ID documents if the learner is under 18

2. Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality Bursary:

The Buffalo City Metropolitan Municipality is a metropolitan municipality located within the Eastern Cape. It invites students to apply for the bursary programme for the 2024 academic year. Learners can reapply each year for funding with this municipality bursary programme. 

Awarded to Students Pursuing:

• It offers bursaries for students who are undertaking engineering, science, and architecture programmes.
• Learners pursuing the Finance programmes can also apply for this bursary. 

Key Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a South African citizen
• Must be between the ages of 14 and 35 years old
• Should be from a financially disadvantaged background
• Have completed Matric

Documents Needed:

• ID Documents 
• Matric final results or certificate
• Academic transcripts if currently studying 
• Letter of acceptance to university 
• Quotation from the university/institution for all study-related expenses
• Proof of Residence 
• Parents or guardians’ ID documents if the learner is under 18

University-specific Bursaries in South Africa:

University-specific bursaries in South Africa are financial assistance programmes sponsored by individual universities to support learners. Since each university sets its own criteria and application process for bursaries, let’s take a look at the top university-specific bursaries:

1. Unisa Postgraduate Bursary:

The University of South Africa (known as UNISA) offers multiple vocational and academic programmes. For the 2024 academic year, this university is offering a Postgraduate bursary programme to learners. 

Awarded to Students Pursuing:

• All fields of study at UNISA toward postgraduate studies, including Diploma, Honours, Master’s and Doctoral qualifications.

Key Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a South African citizen
• Must be temporarily registered for registration 
• Must not already hold a postgraduate degree at the same or a higher NQF level than the qualification registered.
• Must not be a permanent staff member at the University of South Africa (UNISA)
• Must not be registered for special study programmes

Documents Needed:

• Certified ID Document copy
• Proof of payment of registration fees
• Relevant academic certificates

2. UFS Postgraduate Diploma Bursary:

The University of the Free State (UFS) is one of the most respected South African tertiary institutions, and an increasing number of international students are enroling here. Through its bursary programme, students can apply for studies at UFS this academic year. 

Awarded to Students Pursuing:

• Full-time Postgraduate Studies at UFS 

Key Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a South African citizen or International student
•  Must have completed Matric
• Completed an undergraduate degree (at any institution)
• Have a minimum average of 65% for undergraduate studies
• Have strong academic ability

Documents Needed:

• Undergraduates who have not completed their degree at UFS should submit their academic records in PDF format. 

Notable Postgraduate Bursaries in South Africa for 2024

In South Africa, students pursuing postgraduate studies often face educational costs as a significant barrier. With many bursaries available for 2024, learners can now get substantial support from funding authorities or organisations. These bursaries not only reduce the financial burden on students but also help them focus on their academic and professional goals. 

So, in this section, we have added the top postgraduate bursaries 2024 in South Africa. Let’s take a closer look into the details of the bursaries, including their eligibility criteria, application procedure and more: 

Prestigious Bursaries for Postgraduate Studies in South Africa

Here are some of the recognised bursaries for postgraduate studies in South Africa:

1. Ernst & Ethel Eriksen Trust Bursary:

The Ernst & Ethel Eriksen Trust Bursary is a bursary for postgraduate studies in South Africa that has financially helped postgraduate students pursue Master’s and Doctorate degrees for over twenty years. Since this bursary is granted for one academic year, students must reapply for funding every year. 

Awarded to Students Pursuing:

• Postgraduate studies- Masters or Doctorate in ANY field.

Key Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a South African citizen
• Have completed an Honours degree qualification
•  Registered or accepted to study at a university in South Africa
• Have a solid academic record

Documents Needed:

• ID Documents 
• Latest academic results
• Proof of application and acceptance to the university 
• Estimate expenditure for the course you are applying for 
• Proof of Residence 
• Motivation Letter

2. Imfundo Enhle Education Trust Bursary:

Imfundo Enhle Education Trust is a private entity that supports and helps students pursue education. This trust upholds four values- Ubuntu, Inclusion, Diversity and Empowerment. It offers a full bursary to cover all study-related expenses and partial funding for learners who have alternate funding. 

Awarded to Students Pursuing:

• Postgraduate and Undergraduate studies in ANY field.

Key Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a South African citizen
• Studying towards undergraduate or postgraduate qualification
• Must be from a financially disadvantaged background
• Have a household income of not more than R350 000 per annum
•  Registered or accepted to study at a university in South Africa
• Students of any age, race, or gender may apply

Documents Needed:

• ID Documents 
• Matric results
• Academic transcripts
• Proof of university registration
• Proof of university acceptance
• Motivational letter
• Proof of household income

Regional Bursaries for Postgraduate Studies in South Africa

Here are the bursaries for postgraduate studies in South Africa provided for learners from particular regions:

1. Mulilo Bursary:

Mulilo Bursary was founded in 2014 to financially assist disadvantaged students. It has supported more than 100 students from the Northern Cape province. The bursary offers tuition fees, book allowances, accommodation, and even a monthly stipend.

Awarded to Students Pursuing:

• Postgraduate and Undergraduate studies in ANY field.

Key Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a South African citizen
• Must be 35 years old or younger
• Currently in Matric or have completed Matric.
• Intending to study towards an Undergraduate, Postgraduate or Distance Learning qualification in any field.
• Have a family income of not more than R180 000 per annum.

Documents Needed:

• ID Documents 
• Matric final results or certificate 
• Academic transcripts
• Proof of university registration or application
• Motivational letter

2. Gauteng City Region Academy (GCRA) Bursary:

The Gauteng City Region Academy (GCRA) will be awarded to students residing in Gauteng. It will provide them with opportunities and career guidance programmes to develop skills. The GCRA covers expenses like registration fees, tuition fees, accommodation, laptops, books, and a living allowance. 

Awarded to Students Pursuing:

• Postgraduate and Undergraduate studies in ANY field.

Key Eligibility Requirements:

• Must be a South African citizen
• Must be between 18 – 35 years 
• Have completed Matric in Gauteng.
• Intending to study towards an Undergraduate, Postgraduate or Distance Learning qualification in any field.

Documents Needed:

• ID Documents 
• Matric certificate 
• Academic transcripts
• Proof of university registration or application
• Proof of address in Gauteng
• Proof of household income
• Motivational letter

Essential Tips for Securing a Postgraduate Bursary

While securing a postgraduate bursary, you must remember specific tips to ensure a seamless bursary application process. In this section, we have gathered a few strategies you can follow to get your desired postgraduate bursary.

Research Thoroughly and Start Early:

Since there are many postgraduate bursary programmes available, you must select the one that meets all your academic and financial requirements. Therefore, remember to start your application process early to avoid last-minute errors and missing deadlines. 

Write a Winning Bursary Application Letter:

To write a compelling bursary application letter, you must understand the goals and values of the bursary you are applying for. You can highlight your academic and professional achievements, career goals, and relevant work experiences. Besides, you must clearly express your financial situation and state how a bursary can help you out. Most importantly, you should proofread and edit your application to ensure it is free of grammatical and spelling errors.

Avoid Common Mistakes in Bursary Applications:

Some of the common mistakes you must avoid are being too specific when mentioning your achievements and goals, writing poorly with grammatical errors, and missing deadlines. Besides, some applicants may submit incomplete applications without the necessary documents. Therefore, ensure you submit your application before the deadline without any mistakes and errors that could cause disqualification. 

Conclusion

Many postgraduate bursary programmes are available in South Africa, allowing learners to pursue their higher studies without any financial burden. However, learners wanting to secure postgraduate bursaries in South Africa for 2024 must thoroughly research and pay careful attention to application details. In this article, we have walked you through the different types of bursaries, their eligibility criteria and documentation requirements. Understanding the key points shared in our article, you can apply for the right postgraduate bursary that reduces your educational costs and allows you to focus on your academic journey.

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Postgraduate Bursaries in South Africa for 2024 – FAQs