Missing a bursary deadline can cost you an entire academic year. If you are planning to study in 2026 and still need funding, January 2026 is your final opportunity to secure financial support from several government departments, municipalities, and major South African companies.
Many students believe that once NSFAS closes, all funding options are gone. That is not true. There are still credible bursaries closing between 23 and 31 January 2026 that can fully or partially fund your studies — but you must act fast.
This guide from GoIntern.co.za breaks down bursaries currently open, their closing dates, who qualifies, what they cover, and how to apply successfully.
Why You Should Apply for January 2026 Bursaries
January bursaries are often:
- Less competitive than early-year bursaries
- A lifeline for students who missed NSFAS
- Focused on skills South Africa urgently needs
- Offered by municipalities and SETAs that prioritise local youth
If you qualify and submit a strong application, you still stand a real chance of being funded.
1. Vhembe District Municipality Bursary (Closes 23 January 2026)
The Vhembe District Municipality Bursary supports students from the Vhembe District in Limpopo who want to pursue studies that contribute to local development.
Who Can Apply
- South African citizens
- Residents of the Vhembe District
- Students accepted or registered at a recognised tertiary institution
- Preference is given to financially needy students
Fields of Study
Priority is usually given to:
- Engineering
- Environmental studies
- Finance and Accounting
- Public Management
- Town and Regional Planning
What the Bursary Covers
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation (where applicable)
- Study materials
Closing Date
🛑 23 January 2026
This is one of the earliest closing bursaries, so applicants should submit immediately.
2. CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary Scheme (Closes 30 January 2026)
The Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA) bursary aims to grow skills in the construction and built environment sectors.
Who Can Apply
- South African citizens
- Students studying construction-related qualifications
- Unemployed youth and students from disadvantaged backgrounds are prioritised
Fields of Study
- Civil Engineering
- Quantity Surveying
- Construction Management
- Architecture
- Plumbing, Bricklaying, Electrical studies (TVET included)
What the Bursary Covers
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed books
- Accommodation (in some cases)
Closing Date
🛑 30 January 2026
This bursary is ideal for TVET and university students pursuing practical, in-demand skills.
3. African Rainbow Minerals (ARM) Bursary (Closes 30 January 2026)
The ARM Bursary is one of South Africa’s most competitive and well-funded corporate bursaries, aimed at developing future professionals in mining and engineering.
Who Can Apply
- South African citizens
- Strong academic performance
- Financial need considered
- Preference for previously disadvantaged students
Fields of Study
- Mining Engineering
- Metallurgy
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Geology
- Accounting and Finance (limited)
What the Bursary Covers
- Full tuition
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Books
- Monthly allowance
- Paid vacation work
Closing Date
🛑 30 January 2026
This bursary often includes work-back obligations, meaning graduates may work for ARM after completing their studies.
4. Lephalale Municipality Bursary (Closes 30 January 2026)
The Lephalale Municipality Bursary supports students from the Lephalale area in Limpopo.
Who Can Apply
- South African citizens
- Residents of Lephalale Municipality
- Students enrolled or accepted at recognised institutions
Fields of Study
- Electrical and Mechanical Engineering
- Environmental Science
- Financial Management
- Public Administration
- Information Technology
What the Bursary Covers
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation assistance
- Study materials
Closing Date
🛑 30 January 2026
Municipal bursaries often favour local students, increasing your chances if you qualify.
5. SANAS Bursary (Closes 30 January 2026)
The South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) bursary focuses on scientific and technical skills development.
Who Can Apply
- South African citizens
- Strong mathematics and science background
- Undergraduate and postgraduate students
Fields of Study
- Chemistry
- Microbiology
- Engineering
- Metrology
- Quality Management Systems
What the Bursary Covers
- Tuition fees
- Books
- Monthly stipend (in some cases)
Closing Date
🛑 30 January 2026
SANAS bursaries often lead to career opportunities within national regulatory bodies.
6. SASSETA Bursary (Closes 30 January 2026)
The Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA) bursary supports skills development in safety and security.
Who Can Apply
- South African citizens
- Youth interested in safety, justice, and security fields
- Unemployed students encouraged to apply
Fields of Study
- Policing
- Forensic Investigation
- Law
- Criminal Justice
- Information Technology (Security focus)
What the Bursary Covers
- Tuition fees
- Study materials
- Allowances (varies)
Closing Date
🛑 30 January 2026
This bursary is ideal for students passionate about law enforcement and justice careers.
7. KN Inzuzo Trust Bursary (Closes 31 January 2026)
The KN Inzuzo Trust Bursary focuses on developing scarce skills and supporting previously disadvantaged students.
Who Can Apply
- South African citizens
- Strong academic performance
- Financial need required
Fields of Study
- Engineering
- Commerce
- Science
- Information Technology
What the Bursary Covers
- Tuition
- Books
- Partial accommodation support
Closing Date
🛑 31 January 2026
8. Cape Gate Erwin Robert Balde Bursary (Closes 31 January 2026)
This bursary is offered by Cape Gate, a major steel manufacturer in South Africa.
Fields of Study
- Metallurgy
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
What the Bursary Covers
- Full tuition
- Books
- Allowances
🛑 Closing Date: 31 January 2026
9. SAFRIPOL Community Bursary (Closes 31 January 2026)
The SAFRIPOL Bursary supports students from communities near SAFRIPOL operations.
Fields of Study
- Engineering
- Chemistry
- Supply Chain Management
- Finance
🛑 Closing Date: 31 January 2026
10. Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) Bursary (Closes 31 January 2026)
This bursary supports students in sports, arts, culture, and heritage studies.
Fields of Study
- Performing Arts
- Fine Arts
- Heritage Studies
- Sport Science
- Cultural Management
🛑 Closing Date: 31 January 2026
How to Increase Your Chances of Success
✔ Apply to multiple bursaries
✔ Submit a clear motivational letter
✔ Ensure documents are certified
✔ Apply before deadlines — late applications are rejected
Final Thoughts
If you are serious about studying in 2026 and still need funding, these January bursaries could change your life. Missing these deadlines means waiting another year.
At GoIntern.co.za, we encourage students to apply immediately, stay organised, and never assume you won’t qualify.
📌 Check GoIntern.co.za daily for updated bursaries, internships, and career opportunities.
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