South Africa
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Scholarships and Bursaries in South Africa 2025: Students' Guide
Explore 2025 scholarships & bursaries in South Africa. From Nedbank to Rhodes, here’s how to apply, deadlines, and tips to win funding.
8/23/25, 6:08 PM
Quick Scholarship Links
Introduction
Higher education can be expensive in South Africa. Tuition fees at public universities climb every year, while unemployment remains high for many families. Scholarships and bursaries provide a lifeline, allowing talented students to access quality education without crippling debt. Scholarships are usually awarded on merit (high marks, leadership, or exceptional talent), whereas bursaries are usually need‑based, offered by companies, government departments, or charities to help students who cannot afford university costs. 2025 promises another busy year for funding opportunities, with banks, NGOs, and international foundations opening applications.
This guide (updated on 23 August 2025) compiles active or upcoming bursary and scholarship opportunities. For programmes whose 2025 deadlines have passed, we note the expected deadlines based on previous cycles so you can prepare for the next call. Each entry outlines who can apply, eligibility, benefits, and deadlines, and links to official sources. Whether you are an undergraduate, honours, or postgraduate student, this guide will help you navigate the funding landscape.
Major South African Scholarships & Bursaries
Nedbank Bursary 2025 {#nedbank-bursary}
Who qualifies: South African citizens who have completed or are completing Matric, intend to study a first undergraduate or honours degree at a public university, and are committed to fields aligned with the green economy (science, technology, engineering, mathematics, environmental studies, finance). Applicants must have passed Mathematics and achieved at least a 65 % average. Proven financial need and good character are essential
Eligibility:
Nationality: South African citizen
Age & stage: Currently in Grade 12 or completed Matric, planning to pursue an undergraduate or honours degree in 2025/2026.
Academic record: Minimum 65 % overall average, with Mathematics as a subject
Field of study: Must be in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, or other green‑economy disciplines.
Financial need: Must demonstrate inability to fund studies (proof of family income required).
Consent: If under 18, a parent/guardian must consent to the application
Deadline: 31 August 2025. Late or incomplete submissions are not accepted. Applications open each year around April and close at the end of August
Benefits: The bursary covers tuition fees, registration fees, textbooks, and accommodation. It may also provide a monthly allowance and mentorship. In exchange, recipients commit to vacation work and, after graduating, may be required to work at Nedbank for a period.
Official link: Nedbank Bursary Programme
Application tips: Prepare certified copies of ID, matric results, and acceptance letter; proof of household income; and a motivational essay. Use the official online portal. Avoid paying any fees – Nedbank bursaries are free to apply.
Rhodes Scholarship South Africa (Expected 2026 Cycle) {#rhodes-scholarship}
The Rhodes Scholarship, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious scholarships, funds exceptional students to study for a postgraduate degree at the University of Oxford. The 2026 programme (for entry in October 2026) accepted applications up to 1 August 2025. Since that deadline has passed, prospective applicants should prepare for the 2027 cycle (applications typically open in June and close in August).
Who qualifies: Citizens or legal residents of South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Namibia, or Eswatini who have lived in one of these countries for at least five of the last ten years
Eligibility:
Age: 19–24 years (some older candidates up to 28 with a good reason).
Degree: Must have completed or be in the final year of an undergraduate degree by July 2026 with a strong academic record (first‑class or GPA 3.7/4.0)
Leadership & service: Evidence of leadership, moral force of character, and commitment to service
Citizenship/residency: At least five of the last ten years spent in the eligible countries
Expected deadline: August 2026 (based on the 2025 deadline of 1 August 2025). Check the Rhodes Trust website in June 2026 for the confirmed closing date and application portal.
Benefits: Fully covers university and college fees at Oxford, provides a stipend (about £18,180 per annum), visa and health surcharge, economy‑class return airfare, and membership in an unparalleled alumni network
Official link: Rhodes Scholarship Southern Africa
Note: Applicants must secure letters of reference and prepare a personal statement. Selection involves regional interviews around October–November and final decisions by December.
SSP Scholarship {#ssp-scholarship}
The Student Sponsorship Programme (SSP) targets talented but financially disadvantaged learners in grades 8 to 12. Although not a university bursary, it plays a critical role in shaping the pipeline of scholars who will later compete for tertiary funding.
Who qualifies: Learners entering Grade 8 at public schools and high achievers from rural and township areas. SSP partners with top private high schools, providing scholarships for five years.
Nomination – prospective learners are identified through provincial education departments and local schools.
Application – families submit forms, including academic records and proof of income.
Testing – shortlisted learners write literacy and numeracy tests
Interview & home visit – to assess character and financial need.
Selection – final offers extended to learners and families.
Matching – scholars are matched with partner schools
Benefits: The scholarship covers tuition fees, uniforms, books, and extra‑curricular excursions. Scholars also receive academic support, psycho‑social counselling, mentorship, and parent workshops. It is a holistic investment that continues beyond graduation, with alumni networking and bursary advice for university.
Application timeline: SSP announces new intake calls on its website and social media around March each year. The 2025 call closed earlier in the year; we expect the 2026 intake to open in February 2026. Check SSP’s official page for exact dates.
Official link: Student Sponsorship Programme
Canon Collins RMTF Scholarship 2026 {#canon-collins}
The Canon Collins Trust supports postgraduate study and leadership development for southern Africans. Its RMTF Scholarship funds Master’s or PhD studies in humanities, arts, education, journalism, climate justice, law, and development at South African universities. The current call (for the 2026 academic year) was released in August 2025.
Who qualifies: Nationals or refugees from South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Eswatini, or Zambia, who normally reside in one of these countries and hold a good first degree (at least second‑class honours). Applicants must be studying or have applied to a South African university
Eligibility:
Citizenship: Citizen or refugee of an eligible country
Degree level: Must be applying for or enrolled in a Master’s or PhD in fields related to justice, education, humanities, journalism, or climate change.
Academic merit: Strong academic record and evidence of community involvement.
Financial need and commitment to social justice.
Deadline: 2 September 2025 at 17:00 SAST. Applications open in July 2025 and close at the start of September. No late applications accepted.
Benefits: Awards range from R20 000 to R100 000 per year to contribute towards tuition fees and living costs. Scholars join the Canon Collins network, attend conferences and workshops, and gain access to research funding.
Official link: Canon Collins Trust
McCall MacBain Scholarship – International Applicants {#mccall-macbain}
The McCall MacBain Scholarship is a fully funded opportunity to pursue a Master’s or professional degree at McGill University in Canada. South African students fall under the international category. The 2026 cohort (starting Autumn 2026) accepted applications until 20 August 2025; the next cycle for entry in 2027 will likely open in June 2026.
Who qualifies: Students from any country outside Canada/USA who are on track to graduate with a bachelor’s degree by August 2026 or who have completed a bachelor’s degree within the last five years. Applicants must be under 30 years old by 1 September 2025 and meet McGill’s admission requirements.
Eligibility:
Academic excellence and leadership potential.
Demonstrated service and character.
Commitment to solving complex global problems.
English proficiency and readiness to thrive in Montreal.
Expected deadline: The 2027 intake is expected to close in August 2026 (for international applicants). The 2026 intake for applicants from Canada/US remains open until 24 September 2025, so if you hold North American citizenship or permanent residency, you can still apply
Benefits: The scholarship covers full tuition fees, provides a CAD 2,300 monthly living stipend, a relocation grant, funding for language training, and leadership development programming.
Official link: McCall MacBain Scholars
StudyTrust Bursary {#study-trust}
StudyTrust manages bursaries on behalf of corporations and foundations. Their online application acts as a single gateway to multiple bursary opportunities. For the 2026 academic year, most applications close on 30 September 2025
Who qualifies: South African citizens who are studying or intending to study full‑time at a South African public university or university of technology. StudyTrust focuses on fields with national scarcity, such as engineering, accounting, commerce, ICT, health sciences, and education. Applicants must show academic potential and financial need.
Eligibility:
Nationality: South African citizen.
Academic level: Matriculants, current undergraduates, or postgraduates; strong academic record.
Financial need: Household income below a certain threshold (varies per fund).
Field of study: Skilled areas (STEM, commerce, health, education).
Character: Evidence of leadership and community involvement.
Deadline: 30 September 2025. Some bursary funds administered by StudyTrust may have earlier or later deadlines; check the specific bursary listing on StudyTrust’s portal.
Benefits: Funding may cover tuition, registration fees, accommodation, books, and a living stipend. Additional support includes mentorship, career guidance, and holiday work placements
Official link: StudyTrust Application Portal
Application tips: You need only one online application to be considered for various bursaries. Have certified copies of your ID, academic records, proof of household income, and proof of university admission ready
Standard Bank Bursary 2026 {#standard-bank}
The Standard Bank Group Bursary supports academically gifted students from financially challenged backgrounds to study in fields that align with the bank’s future skills needs, such as agricultural sciences, commerce, engineering, IT, behavioural economics, mathematics, statistics, and sciences.
Who qualifies: South African citizens enrolled or intending to study full‑time at a public university in South Africa. Applicants must have achieved a minimum 65 % overall average and demonstrate financial need.
Eligibility:
Undergraduate candidates: Completed Matric with good marks; accepted into an eligible degree field; 65 % average.
Postgraduate candidates: Already hold a relevant undergraduate degree; strong academic record.
Financial situation: Household income below a threshold.
Leadership potential and community service.
Deadline: 30 September 2025. The application window usually opens on 1 May each year and runs until the end of September.
Benefits: The bursary is comprehensive, covering full tuition fees, registration, accommodation, meals, textbooks, stationery, laptop allowance, monthly stipend, and travel costs. Recipients may be required to intern with the bank during vacations and to work for Standard Bank after graduation.
Official link: Standard Bank Group Bursary
Google Africa Developer Scholarship (GADS) {#google-africa}
The Google Africa Developer Scholarship (GADS) isn’t a conventional bursary – it offers free access to online tech courses and mentorship for aspiring developers. The programme is run by Google, Pluralsight, and Andela and aims to train thousands of African coders.
Who qualifies: Residents of African countries who are at least 18 years old and want to develop skills in Android development, Google Cloud, or Mobile Web. Applicants need a computer or smartphone and an internet connection.
Programme structure: Scholars are divided into tracks (Associate Android Developer, Google Cloud Engineer, Mobile Web Specialist). They gain free access to Pluralsight courses, hands‑on labs, and the opportunity to earn industry‑recognised certificates. Performance is assessed based on course completion and project submissions; top learners receive additional mentorship and exam vouchers.
Deadline: GADS runs in cohorts. The 2025 cohort opened in May; registration closed in mid‑June 2025. We expect another call for 2026 participants around May 2026. Keep an eye on Google Africa’s developer channels.
Benefits: While it doesn’t offer cash, GADS provides free training, exam fees, and career mentorship, giving you a head start in tech.
Official link: Google Africa Developer Scholarship
Gallagher Foundation Scholarship 2026 {#gallagher-foundation}
The Gallagher Foundation funds high‑potential South African students to study at the University of Cape Town (UCT). The scholarship emphasises leadership, ethical values, and community service.
Who qualifies: South African citizens who wish to enter the first year of an undergraduate degree at UCT in 2026 and demonstrate financial need, academic excellence, high ethical values, and leadership potential
Eligibility:
Grade 12 learners planning to start university in 2026.
Minimum average: 80 % or higher across subjects (especially mathematics and science).
Extra‑curricular involvement: Evidence of leadership and community service.
Financial situation: Family income below a certain threshold; cannot afford UCT fees.
South African citizenship
Application status: The 2026 intake closed on 31 July 2025. Applicants will be notified of their status by 22 September 2025, interviews will be held in October, and the final selection will be made by 10 October 2025. Prospective students should check the foundation’s website in March 2026 for the 2027 cycle.
Benefits: The Gallagher Foundation scholarship covers full tuition fees, accommodation, meals, books, medical aid, and a stipend for the duration of the degree. Scholars join a leadership development programme and an alumni network.
Official link: Gallagher Foundation South Africa
Tomorrow Trust Bursary (Expected 2026 Cycle) {#tomorrow-trust}
The Tomorrow Trust helps orphaned and vulnerable youth through academic, psychosocial, and career support from Grade R to the tertiary level. Its bursary programme provides comprehensive funding and wrap‑around support for undergraduate and postgraduate students.
Who qualifies: South African citizens aged 18–30 (undergraduate) or 18–35 (postgraduate) who are orphans or come from vulnerable backgrounds, with a minimum 60 % average and household income below R650 000
Eligibility:
Undergraduate applicants: Have Matric and are accepted for full‑time study in any field; at least 60 % average; preference to Black, Coloured, and Indian students as per BBBEE.
Postgraduate applicants: At least 60 % average in undergraduate degree and 60 % in matric mathematics; final‑year undergraduates or first‑time postgraduates.
Financial and social need: Demonstrated vulnerability (orphaned, living with guardians, etc.)
Previous deadline: The last call (for the 2025 academic year) closed on 15 October 2024. The foundation typically opens applications around August–September each year; we expect the 2026 bursary to open in September 2025 with a similar mid‑October deadline.
Benefits: Covers tuition fees, textbooks, equipment, accommodation, meals, transport, and a living allowance. Scholars also receive psychosocial counselling, academic coaching, career guidance, workshops, and networking.
Official link: Tomorrow Trust.
Commonwealth Scholarship – University of Pretoria Doctoral Scholarship 2026 {#commonwealth}
This scholarship is offered by the University of Pretoria (UP) to support doctoral students from Commonwealth countries (excluding South Africa). It is part of the Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan.
Who qualifies: Citizens of Commonwealth countries (except South Africa) who intend to undertake a doctoral programme at UP, beginning in the 2026 academic year. Applicants must have applied for admission to UP and secured a potential supervisor
Eligibility:
Must have completed a Master’s degree at least two years before the start of the PhD
Must be 38 years or younger at the time of application
Must not currently be enrolled in a Master’s or PhD programme at UP.
Must have had their qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).
Must be a citizen of a Commonwealth country
Deadline: 20 September 2025. Applications opened in August 2025 and close at 23:59 (SAST) on 20 September 2025.
Benefits: The scholarship is valued at R190 000 per year, covering accommodation and living costs, fees, medical aid, and books. Additional support includes flight tickets to and from South Africa, shuttle services, and reimbursement of application fees and visa costs. Recipients may hold supplementary bursaries, but the total value cannot exceed R300 000 per year
Official link: UP Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship
Chinese Government Scholarship 2026/27 {#chinese-government}
The Chinese Government Scholarship is offered by the China Scholarship Council (CSC) and coordinated in South Africa by the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). It provides full funding for South Africans to study bachelor’s, master’s or PhD programmes – or non‑degree Chinese language courses – at Chinese universities for the 2026/27 academic year.
Who qualifies: South African citizens with a strong academic record (minimum 60 % average) and in good health. Applicants should demonstrate interest in China and commit to returning to South Africa after their studies. Priority is given to postgraduates, previously disadvantaged individuals, and those applying to priority fields.
Eligibility:
Citizenship: South African.
Academic level & age: For non‑degree Chinese language studies: National Senior Certificate with 60 % average; under 35 years old students. For a Bachelor’s degree: NSC with 60 % average; students under 25 years old. For Master’s degree: Bachelor’s degree with 60 % average; under 35. For a Doctoral degree: Master’s degree with 60 % average; under 40.
Field of study: Priority areas include agriculture, biotechnology, Chinese language, computer science, engineering, environment and climate change, hydrogeology, maritime studies, natural sciences, renewable energy, space science, telecommunications, and more.
Deadline: 30 September 2025. Applicants must first submit a DHET application form and supporting documents. Shortlisted candidates will then receive instructions to apply on the CSC online portal when it opens in November 2025.
Benefits: The scholarship covers tuition fees, accommodation, insurance, and a monthly stipend; durations range from two years for non‑degree studies to seven years for a combined bachelor’s and master’s degree.
Official link: DHET International Scholarships – Chinese Government Scholarship
Note: The DHET cautions students to research their chosen programmes and universities to ensure accreditation in South Africa
How to Apply for a Scholarship in South Africa {#how-to-apply}
Applying for scholarships and bursaries can feel overwhelming, but breaking the process into steps will help you stay organised and maximise your chances of success.
1. Research and shortlist programmes
Start early. Use this guide and official university or funder websites to identify scholarships and bursaries that align with your field of study, level (undergraduate, honours, postgraduate), and personal circumstances (merit‑based vs need‑based). Note the eligibility criteria, required documents, and deadlines in a spreadsheet.
2. Prepare your documents
You’ll typically need:
Certified ID or passport copies.
Academic transcripts – matric results, university transcripts, or mid‑year reports.
Proof of admission or provisional acceptance at a university.
Proof of household income (e.g., parents’ payslips, affidavit, or SASSA statement).
Reference letters – from teachers, lecturers, or employers attesting to your academic ability and character.
Motivation essay or personal statement – explaining your background, ambitions, and why you deserve funding.
Curriculum vitae – highlighting leadership roles, community service, and achievements.
For international scholarships: Passport, medical certificates, police clearance, and English proficiency test results.
3. Create an online profile
Most programmes now use online portals. Register early, complete your profile, and upload the required documents. Check that scans are clear and documents are within the file size limit. Always use the official portal – avoid third‑party sites that ask for payment.
4. Write a compelling essay
Your motivation letter is often the differentiator. Explain your academic goals, career vision, leadership activities, and how the scholarship will impact your community. Use clear language, avoid clichés, and tailor each essay to the specific scholarship’s values and mission.
5. Submit before the deadline
Aim to submit at least one week before the deadline in case of technical issues. Applications close on the date/time specified; late submissions are rarely accepted. Confirm receipt via the portal or email.
6. Prepare for exams or interviews
Some bursaries require aptitude tests (Maths, English, general knowledge) or psychometric assessments; others include panel interviews. Review past papers where available and practise explaining your achievements confidently.
7. Watch out for scams
Do not pay anyone to secure a scholarship – legitimate programmes are free to apply. Use official websites (e.g., university or funder domains). If in doubt, contact the funding body directly. Avoid agents promising guaranteed bursaries.
Tips for Writing a Strong Application Letter {#application-letter}
A well‑crafted application letter or personal statement can make your application stand out. Here’s how to get it right:
Format
Use a formal business letter format when required. Include:
Your address and date at the top.
Scholarship provider’s address (if provided).
Subject line stating the purpose (e.g., Application for Nedbank Bursary).
Greeting (e.g., Dear Bursary Committee).
Introduction: Briefly introduce yourself (name, current year of study, degree).
Body: Describe your academic achievements, financial need, and motivations. Connect your values to the funder’s mission. Provide evidence of leadership, community service, and resilience.
Conclusion: Thank the committee, express your eagerness, and provide contact details.
Signature (Typed name, or handwritten if submitting printed copy).
Dos and Don’ts
Do:
Tailor each letter to the specific bursary’s values and requirements.
Be honest – do not exaggerate achievements.
Highlight achievements with quantifiable examples (e.g., top 5 % of my class).
Show future goals and how the funding will help you give back.
Use clear, concise language and proofread for errors.
Don’t:
Send a generic letter to multiple funders.
Overuse jargon or complicated sentences.
Focus solely on financial hardship – emphasise potential and ambition.
Include irrelevant personal details.
Submit without proofreading or checking formatting.
Sample scholarship letter
[Your Name]
[Street Address]
[City, Postal Code]
[Date]
Bursary Committee
Nedbank Bursary Programme
[Address]
Subject: Application for Nedbank Bursary 2025
Dear Bursary Committee,
I am writing to apply for the 2025 Nedbank Bursary. I am a Grade 12 learner at [School Name] and have been accepted to study Chemical Engineering at [University Name] next year. Throughout my high school years I maintained an average above 80 %, achieving distinctions in Mathematics and Physical Sciences.
Growing up in a single‑income household has not been easy. My mother, a nurse, is the sole breadwinner supporting my siblings and me. Despite financial constraints, I have excelled academically and served as head of the school’s Science Club, where I organised tutoring sessions for fellow learners. I also volunteer at our community garden, teaching children about sustainable farming.
Pursuing Chemical Engineering will allow me to contribute to South Africa’s green economy – aligning with Nedbank’s mission of driving sustainable development. This bursary would not only relieve the financial burden on my family but also enable me to focus on my studies and participate in research projects that develop renewable energy solutions for rural communities.
I appreciate your consideration and look forward to the opportunity to fulfil my potential through this bursary. I have attached all required documents, including a certified ID copy, Grade 11 and 12 results, proof of acceptance, and household income statements. Please feel free to contact me at [Phone Number] or [Email].
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Yours faithfully,
[Signature]
[Your Name]
🗓️ Scholarship Deadlines Calendar 2025 {#deadlines}
Below is a quick reference to upcoming funding deadlines. Always verify dates on the official sites, as they may change.
31 August 2025: Nedbank Bursary applications close
2 September 2025: Canon Collins RMTF Scholarship (Master's/PhD) deadline
20 September 2025: University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship application closes
30 September 2025: StudyTrust bursary portal closes
30 September 2025: Standard Bank Group bursary applications close
30 September 2025: Chinese Government Scholarship – DHET application deadline
24 September 2025: McCall MacBain scholarship deadline (Canada/US applicants)
October 2025: Gallagher Foundation interviews and final selection (cycle closed)
September–October 2025 (expected): Tomorrow Trust bursary 2026 call (watch for announcement).
August 2026 (expected): Next Rhodes Scholarship Southern Africa deadline
Frequently Asked Questions {#faq}
What is the difference between a scholarship and a bursary?
Scholarship: Usually merit‑based and awarded for academic excellence, leadership, or exceptional talent (e.g., sports, music). Examples include the Rhodes Scholarship and McCall MacBain Scholarship. Scholarships often cover tuition and living expenses but may not require repayment.
Bursary: Usually need‑based, offered by government departments, banks, or companies to students who cannot afford university fees. Bursary recipients often need to meet certain performance criteria and may have to work for the funder after graduation (service‑binding). Examples are Nedbank, Standard Bank, and StudyTrust bursaries.
Which bursary is easiest to get in South Africa?
There is no “easy” bursary; each is competitive. However, sector‑specific bursaries like those offered by companies in engineering, accounting, education, and agriculture may have fewer applicants because they target particular fields. StudyTrust administers multiple bursaries through a single application, increasing your chances if you fit the criteria. Focus on bursaries that match your degree and personal circumstances.
Do bursaries cover accommodation?
Many bursaries, especially corporate ones (e.g., Standard Bank, Nedbank, StudyTrust, and Gallagher Foundation), cover accommodation and meals in addition to tuition and books. Always check the specific bursary rules; some may provide only tuition and require you to secure accommodation through NSFAS or other funding.
Can international students apply?
Most South African bursaries require South African citizenship (e.g., Nedbank, Standard Bank, StudyTrust). However, some scholarships are open to international applicants:
Rhodes Scholarship – for citizens or residents of Southern African countries.
McCall MacBain Scholarship – open to international students; a small number of positions available each year
University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship – open to citizens of Commonwealth countries other than South Africa
Chinese Government Scholarship – open only to South African citizens because the DHET nominates candidates
International students should also explore global scholarships like Chevening, Fulbright, Mastercard Foundation, and others through their home country’s education ministry.
Conclusion
Education unlocks opportunities and drives social mobility. In South Africa, where many families cannot afford university fees, scholarships and bursaries play a crucial role in building skills and reducing inequality. As of 23 August 2025, several major programmes still have open or upcoming deadlines: Nedbank (31 Aug), Canon Collins (2 Sept), University of Pretoria Commonwealth Doctoral Scholarship (20 Sept), StudyTrust, Standard Bank, and Chinese Government scholarships (30 Sept). Other opportunities like the Gallagher Foundation, Rhodes, and Tomorrow Trust have closed for 2025 but will reopen in 2026 – start preparing now. Remember, competition is fierce, so apply early, tailor your applications, and never pay to apply.
Bookmark this guide and share it with friends. We will update it as new 2025/2026 bursary deadlines are announced. May your academic journey be funded and your dreams realised!
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