How to Apply for a Bursary or Study Fund in South Africa
If your household income is low, there is a very good chance you can study at a university or TVET college without paying anything. This guide explains exactly how.
Bursaries and Funding Options
NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme)
Most ImportantWho qualifies: South African citizens whose household earns less than R350,000 per year. This covers the vast majority of SASSA grant recipient households. You must be accepted at or already enrolled at a public university or TVET college.
What is covered: Full tuition fees, accommodation (on-campus or a private accommodation allowance), a meal allowance, a transport allowance, and a personal care allowance. For most students, NSFAS covers everything you need to study without paying a cent from your own pocket.
How to apply: Apply online at nsfas.org.za. Applications typically open between September and November each year for the following academic year. You will need your ID number, your parents or guardians income details, and your matric results or proof of current enrolment. Apply as early as possible because late applications are often not processed.
NSFAS for TVET College Students
For Trades and SkillsWho qualifies: Same household income threshold as the university NSFAS bursary (under R350,000 per year). This is specifically for students enrolled at one of South Africa's 50 public TVET colleges.
What is covered: Full tuition fees plus additional allowances for transport and accommodation where applicable. TVET programmes are shorter (typically 1 to 3 years) and lead directly to trade qualifications.
How to apply: Apply through the same NSFAS portal at nsfas.org.za. During your application, select your TVET college instead of a university. Your college's financial aid office can help you through the process if you get stuck.
Funza Lushaka Teaching Bursary
Teaching OnlyWho qualifies: Students studying towards a teaching qualification, either a Bachelor of Education (BEd) or a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE). You must commit to teaching in a South African public school for the same number of years that you receive the bursary.
What is covered: Full tuition, accommodation, and a living allowance. This is one of the most generous bursaries available because South Africa has a serious shortage of qualified teachers, particularly in maths, science, and languages.
How to apply: Apply online at funzalushaka.doe.gov.za. Applications usually open around October and close in January. The earlier you apply, the better your chances. Preference is given to students in scarce skill subjects.
Government Department Bursaries
Who qualifies: Varies by department. Many national and provincial government departments offer bursaries to South African students studying in fields relevant to that department's work. Some prioritise children of government employees, while others are open to all qualifying applicants.
What is covered: Tuition at public universities. Some departments also cover accommodation and living expenses. In return, you typically agree to work for that department after graduating.
How to apply: Check each department's website directly, or visit the Department of Public Service and Administration (dpsa.gov.za) for a list of available bursaries. Application periods vary by department.
Sasol Bursary Programme
Who qualifies: Students from low-income households studying engineering, science, IT, or commerce at an accredited South African university. Academic performance matters here, so you will need a strong matric or university record.
What is covered: Full tuition, accommodation, and a monthly stipend to cover living costs. Sasol also provides mentoring and vacation work experience, which gives you a real advantage when looking for permanent work after graduating.
How to apply: Apply at sasol.com between August and October each year. The selection process is competitive, so make sure your application is complete and your academic record is up to date.
Eskom Tertiary Education Support Programme
Who qualifies: Students from communities near Eskom operations who are studying technical or engineering fields. This bursary is aimed at building skills in the energy sector.
What is covered: Tuition fees and various allowances depending on the programme. Some students are also offered practical work experience at Eskom facilities during holidays.
How to apply: Apply on the Eskom website. Application periods vary each year, so check early and set a reminder. Your local Eskom office may also have information about current opportunities.
How to Enrol at a TVET College (Often the Fastest Route to a Qualification)
TVET colleges offer practical, hands-on qualifications in trades and skills that employers are actively looking for. Most programmes are 1 to 3 years long, and the vast majority of students from grant-receiving households qualify for full NSFAS funding. If you want to go from where you are now to having a recognised qualification and a real chance at employment, this is one of the most direct paths available.
- 1Find your nearest public TVET college. There is at least one in almost every town in South Africa. You can search for yours on the Department of Higher Education website.
- 2Visit the college in person and ask for the Admissions or Student Services office. They will tell you what programmes are available and when the next intake is.
- 3Ask specifically about NSFAS funding. Most TVET students from low-income households qualify for full bursary support. The college staff can help you apply.
- 4Choose a programme that matches local job demand. Electricians, plumbers, welders, IT technicians, hospitality workers, and office administrators are in demand across most of South Africa.
- 5TVET NCV programmes take about 3 years and lead to a nationally recognised qualification. Many also include practical work experience, which means you graduate with both a certificate and real work skills.