Embarking on a career in health and medicine is a noble pursuit, and securing financial support can ease the journey. Here are some of the leading bursaries available for 2026:
1. Mediclinic & ER24 Bursary Programme
About Mediclinic & ER24:
Mediclinic is a private hospital group offering acute care services across South Africa. ER24, a division of Mediclinic, provides emergency medical services nationwide. Together, they aim to address the critical shortage of healthcare professionals by offering bursaries to deserving students.NASI iSPANI+1
- Fields of Study: Nursing, Pharmacy, Emergency Medical Care
- Deadline: 31 July 2025
- Requirements:
- Grade 11/12 results for first-year applicants
- Academic transcripts for current students
- Proof of acceptance or registration at a registered institution
- Preference for Employment Equity candidates
- Consideration of financial need
- How to Apply: Applications can be submitted through the Mediclinic Higher Education portal.
- Why They Offer It: To develop a skilled healthcare workforce and ensure quality patient care.
- Apply Here: Mediclinic Bursary Programme
2. Western Cape Department of Health & Wellness Bursary Programme
About the Department:
The Western Cape Department of Health & Wellness is responsible for providing healthcare services to the residents of the Western Cape. They offer bursaries to support the development of healthcare professionals within the province.hsdims.westerncape.gov.za
- Fields of Study: Diploma in Emergency Medical Care (additional fields may be added annually)
- Deadline: 30 September 2025
- Requirements:
- South African citizen
- Resident of the Western Cape
- Unemployed
- Proof of acceptance or registration at a registered institution
- Commitment to work back in the Western Cape Department of Health & Wellness
- How to Apply: Register and apply through the Western Cape Department of Health bursary portal.
- Why They Offer It: To address healthcare staffing needs and improve service delivery in the Western Cape.
- Apply Here: Western Cape Department of Health Bursary Portalhsdims.westerncape.gov.za
3. Netcare Education Bursary Programme
About Netcare Education:
Netcare Education, a division of the Netcare Group, is one of South Africa’s leading private education and training institutions for healthcare professionals. They offer comprehensive training in nursing and emergency medical services.netcare.co.za+1
- Fields of Study: Nursing, Emergency Medical Care
- Deadline: Applications typically open in May and close in July annually.
- Requirements:
- South African citizen
- Valid matric certificate
- Exceptional academic record
- Proof of financial need
- How to Apply: Submit applications through the Netcare Education portal.
- Why They Offer It: To develop competent healthcare professionals who can deliver high-quality patient care.
- Apply Here: Netcare Education Bursary Programme
4. KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health Bursary Programme
About the Department:
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health is responsible for providing healthcare services to the residents of KwaZulu-Natal. They offer bursaries to support the development of healthcare professionals within the province.
- Fields of Study: Various health-related fields (specific fields may vary annually)
- Deadline: Typically in September annually.
- Requirements:
- South African citizen
- Resident of KwaZulu-Natal
- Good academic record
- Proof of application/registration at a registered institution
- How to Apply: Applications can be submitted through the KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health bursary portal.
- Why They Offer It: To address healthcare staffing needs and improve service delivery in KwaZulu-Natal.
- Apply Here: KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health Bursary Portal
📌 Application Tips
- Prepare Documents: Ensure you have certified copies of your ID, academic transcripts, proof of registration, and any other required documents.
- Meet Deadlines: Adhere to the application deadlines to ensure your application is considered.
- Write a Strong Motivational Letter: Clearly articulate your passion for healthcare and your commitment to contributing to the field.
- Follow Application Instructions: Carefully read and follow the application guidelines provided by each organization.
🔍 Summary Table
| Provider | Fields of Study | Deadline | Application Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mediclinic & ER24 | Nursing, Pharmacy, Emergency Medical Care | 31 July 2025 | Apply Here |
| Western Cape Department of Health & Wellness | Emergency Medical Care (others may be added) | 30 September 2025 | Apply Here |
| Netcare Education | Nursing, Emergency Medical Care | May–July annually | Apply Here |
| KwaZulu-Natal Department of Health | Various health-related fields | September annually | Apply Here |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) – Bursaries in South Africa 2026
1. What is a bursary?
A bursary is financial assistance given to students to help cover the costs of their studies. In South Africa, bursaries are usually offered by government departments, private companies, universities, and NGOs. Depending on the provider, a bursary may cover tuition fees only, or it may also include accommodation, textbooks, and living allowances. Unlike loans, most bursaries do not have to be repaid, although some come with conditions such as maintaining good grades or working for the sponsor after graduation.
2. Who qualifies for a bursary?
Eligibility depends on the bursary provider, but most bursaries require applicants to:
- Be a South African citizen with a valid ID.
- Be accepted or enrolled at a recognized university or TVET college.
- Have good academic performance.
- Show financial need (for need-based bursaries).
- In some cases, demonstrate leadership potential or community involvement.
3. Do bursaries cover accommodation and living expenses?
Yes, some bursaries are full-cost bursaries, which means they pay for tuition, residence, meals, transport, and study materials. Examples include Sasol, Old Mutual, and some government bursaries. Others may only cover tuition or provide a partial contribution. Always read the bursary terms carefully to understand what is included.
4. Can I apply for more than one bursary?
Yes, students can apply for multiple bursaries at the same time. This increases your chances of being funded. If you are awarded more than one bursary, you will normally have to choose one. Some providers also ask you to declare whether you are receiving other financial assistance.
5. Do I have to pay back a bursary?
Most bursaries do not need to be repaid. However, some include a work-back obligation, which means you will have to work for the sponsoring company or government department for a certain number of years after graduation. This is common in bursaries from banks, law firms, and big corporations, and it ensures you gain practical work experience.
6. What happens if I fail my studies while on a bursary?
Most bursary contracts require students to maintain a minimum average, often around 60–65%. If you fail a module or do not meet the performance standard, your bursary funding could be suspended or cancelled. Some bursary providers allow students to repeat failed modules, but this depends on the contract terms.
7. When should I apply for bursaries for 2026?
Bursary applications for the 2026 academic year usually open between April and October 2025. Each bursary has its own deadline, so it’s important to keep track. Large organizations like Sasol, Nedbank, and Shoprite often open applications mid-year, while university bursaries may close later in the year.
8. Do bursaries guarantee me a job after graduation?
Not all bursaries guarantee employment, but many corporate bursaries (like those from banks, retailers, and law firms) include a job offer or internship after graduation. Government bursaries also sometimes place graduates in public service roles. Always check the bursary conditions to know whether a work placement is included.
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