As the 2026 academic year approaches, many South African students are still searching for Bursaries or financial support to help fund their university or college studies. Missing an earlier bursary deadline doesn’t mean your dreams are over — there are bursaries still open, with opportunities for both new students and current tertiary learners. On top of bursaries, we also highlight student loan options you can consider.
In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn:
- ✔ Which bursaries are still available for 2026
- ✔ Eligibility criteria and requirements
- ✔ How and where to apply
- ✔ Application deadlines
- ✔ Student loan options if bursaries aren’t enough
Let’s get into it.
📌 What is a Bursary & Why It Matters
A bursary is a type of financial aid that does not have to be repaid. It is awarded based on financial need, academic merit, or a combination of both. For many South African students, bursaries make tertiary education possible — covering tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, allowances, and sometimes transport.
Unlike loans that must be repaid with interest, bursaries are essentially free funding for study — making them a first option for students with limited financial resources.
📅 Bursaries Still Open for 2026 Applications
While many bursary deadlines fall in September–November 2025, there remain some opportunities that are still open or close in early 2026 that students can still apply for — especially if you act quickly.
Below are continually available and still open bursaries at the time of writing:
✅ 1. NSFAS — National Student Financial Aid Scheme
Open: Applications for NSFAS 2026 opened in September 2025.
Closing date: 15 November 2025 was the official deadline.
Although the deadline has passed, many students can still apply or appeal if they missed the deadline but qualify under special circumstances — especially those who only recently received acceptance at a university or TVET college.
💡 What NSFAS Covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Accommodation allowance
- Study materials and book allowance
- Meal and transport allowances
✔ NSFAS funds students at public universities and TVET colleges.
✔ It’s one of the most comprehensive bursaries available in South Africa.
👉 How to apply:
Apply online via the myNSFAS portal by creating a profile and uploading supporting documents.
✅ 2. Bursaries Closing in January 2026
There are bursaries with deadlines in early 2026 — perfect if you’re still looking for funding:
| Bursary | Closing Date |
|---|---|
| Gold One Bursary | 2 January 2026 |
| Royal Bafokeng Holdings Bursary | 2 January 2026 |
| Cape Gate Isaac Joffe Fellowship Bursary | 9 January 2026 |
| Nestlé Future Talent Bursary | 9 January 2026 |
| Traxtion Bursary | 9 January 2026 |
| Master Builders KZN Bursary | 14 January 2026 |
| Free State Office of the Premier Bursary | 16 January 2026 |
| Master Builders Association Western Cape Bursary | 16 January 2026 |
| Cape Gate Erwin Robert Balde Bursary | 31 January 2026 |
| Department of Sport, Arts and Culture Bursary | 31 January 2026 |
| SAFRIPOL Community Bursary | 31 January 2026 |
These bursaries are still open while the application windows remain active, so applying immediately increases your chances of success.
🧑💼 Requirements for 2026 Bursaries
Every bursary has its own specific criteria, but the most common requirements include:
📌 General Eligibility
✔ South African citizen or permanent resident
✔ Completed or certified matric results
✔ Acceptance letter from a university or TVET college (or proof of application)
✔ Demonstrated financial need
✔ Good academic performance (often a minimum average)
📌 Common Supporting Documents Needed
To ensure your application is complete:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Latest academic results or transcript
- Acceptance or registration letter from the institution
- Proof of household income (e.g., payslips, affidavit if unemployed)
- Motivational letter or CV (for some corporate bursaries)
💡 Tip: Gather all documentation early — incomplete submissions are a common reason bursaries are rejected.
📝 How to Apply for 2026 Bursaries
Though each bursary has its own application process, the common steps are:
1. Find the right bursary
Search bursary listings through sites like GOINTERN.CO.ZA SA Bursaries portals, or direct sponsors (university, corporate, government).
2. Read the requirements carefully
Ensure you meet the eligibility rules and understand exact closing dates.
3. Prepare your documents
Certify all required documents before the application deadline.
4. Submit your application
Some bursaries require online submission, while others may ask for email or postal submission.
5. Track and follow up
Monitor your application status — some bursaries send updates via email or portal notifications.
📊 Top Bursary Programmes to Look Out For
Here are examples of bursaries that students have applied to for the 2026 academic year. Most are competitive but worth applying for if you meet the requirements:
🌟 Funza Lushaka Bursary
For students who want to become teachers — includes funding for tuition and allowances.
Applications often close around mid-November.
🔧 Sasol Bursary
Bursary for science, engineering and technology fields — typically full funding plus career exposure and work placement opportunities. Closing dates often fall in late October or early November.
💻 Standard Bank and KPMG Bursaries
Corporate bursaries in finance, commerce, IT and business — often high amounts and include mentorship.
🤝 Old Mutual & Nedbank Bursaries
Funding for actuarial science, finance and related business qualifications.
📡 Vodacom & Telkom Bursaries
ICT, communications and engineering bursaries that include tuition and training stipends.
💰 What If I Can’t Get a Bursary? Student Loan Options
If bursaries don’t cover everything — or if you didn’t qualify — you still have student loan options to help you bridge the gap.
📌 1. NSFAS Student Loan
NSFAS also provides a loan component for students who don’t qualify for full bursary funding.
✔ You must meet income and academic criteria. www.nsfas.org.za
✔ Loans typically must be repaid after graduation once you’re earning above a certain income threshold.
👉 NSFAS loans can help with tuition, registration fees, and related study costs. www.nsfas.org.za
📌 2. Private Student Loans
For students studying at institutions not covered by NSFAS, there are private loan providers and educational finance companies. These loans typically have:
- Interest rates (repayable over time)
- A surety or co-signer requirement
- Flexible repayment plans
Some colleges and universities have partnerships with private lenders to help students pay fees or accommodation.
🧠 Tips for Successful Bursary or Loan Applications
Here are a few tips to help increase your chances of success:
🎯 Apply to multiple bursaries
Don’t rely on one — applying for more increases your odds.
🌟 Write a strong motivational letter
Explain how funding will help you achieve your career goals.
📅 Submit early
Late or incomplete applications are often disqualified.
📞 Follow up
Email bursary offices to confirm receipt of your application.
📝 Summary: Your 2026 Funding Roadmap
| Funding Option | Covers | Deadline | Repayable? |
|---|---|---|---|
| NSFAS Bursary | Full tuition, allowances | ~15 Nov 2025 | No |
| Corporate & Institutional Bursaries | Varies | Jan 2026 (some) | No |
| NSFAS Student Loan | Tuition & costs | Same as NSFAS | Yes |
| Private Student Loans | Tuition/fees | Rolling | Yes |
📍 Final Thoughts
Navigating bursary season can feel overwhelming, especially when deadlines have passed. But there are still opportunities available if you act now — whether through bursaries closing in early 2026 or NSFAS funding. And if bursaries fall short, student loan options are a viable backup to help you pursue your academic dreams.
Remember to prepare your documents, apply to as many relevant bursaries as you qualify for, and track your application progress. Your education matters — and with the right financial planning, you can make your 2026 study goals a reality.
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