For many South African matric learners, the biggest worry after school is how to afford university or college. Tuition fees, accommodation, books and transport can become expensive very quickly.
The good news is that several bursaries for 2026 are already open for applications, giving matriculants a chance to study without carrying huge financial pressure. Many bursaries cover full tuition, accommodation, textbooks and even monthly allowances.
If you are currently in matric or recently completed Grade 12, this could be the right time to start applying.
What You Need to Know About Bursaries
A bursary is financial support for students who want to study further after matric. Unlike student loans, bursaries usually do not need to be repaid if you meet the programme conditions.
Many bursaries focus on:
- Financial need
- Academic performance
- Scarce skills
- Leadership potential
- Specific study fields
Popular funded fields include:
- Engineering
- Information Technology
- Accounting
- Teaching
- Science
- Medicine
- Commerce
Popular Bursaries Open for South African Matriculants
Industrial Development Corporation External Bursary Scheme
The IDC bursary supports South African students studying full-time qualifications in fields such as finance, STEM and law. Applications for the 2026 academic year opened in 2025 and target unemployed South African youth with financial need.
Students studying:
- Accounting
- Financial Management
- Engineering
- Logistics
- Risk Management
- Law
may qualify depending on requirements.
Learn more on the official IDC website:
Motsepe Foundation Bursary Programme
The Motsepe Foundation bursary is one of the most popular funding opportunities for matric learners interested in STEM careers. It supports students studying science, technology, engineering and mathematics qualifications at South African universities.
The bursary is designed for academically strong students who need financial assistance.
Sasol Bursary Programme
The Sasol bursary programme remains one of the biggest corporate bursaries in South Africa. It supports matric learners and university students in engineering, science and technology-related qualifications.
Benefits may include:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Textbooks
- Meal allowance
- Travel support
Fields often funded include:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Computer Science
- Electrical Engineering
MultiChoice Bursary Programme
The MultiChoice bursary programme focuses on critical and scarce skills in South Africa. The programme supports undergraduate and postgraduate students studying at recognised institutions.
The bursary has invested millions into South African education and continues supporting students in technology and business-related careers.
Government Bursaries Worth Checking
National Student Financial Aid Scheme
NSFAS remains one of the biggest student funding programmes in South Africa for students from low-income households.
NSFAS may cover:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Learning materials
- Living allowances
Many TVET college and university students rely on NSFAS funding each year.
Official website:
Funza Lushaka Teaching Bursary
If you want to become a teacher, Funza Lushaka is one of the most valuable bursaries available.
It supports students studying education qualifications in priority teaching subjects.
Important Documents You Will Usually Need
Most bursary applications require:
- Certified ID copy
- Certified matric results or latest results
- Proof of university application or acceptance
- Parent or guardian proof of income
- Motivation letter
- Proof of residence
Always check application requirements carefully before submitting.
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting a Bursary
Apply Early
One of the biggest mistakes matriculants make is waiting until closing dates are near.
Many bursaries receive thousands of applications.
Apply for Multiple Opportunities
Do not depend on only one bursary.
Apply for:
- Government funding
- Corporate bursaries
- SETA bursaries
- University funding programmes
This increases your chances significantly.
Keep Your Documents Ready
Create a folder on your phone or laptop containing:
- CV
- ID copy
- Results
- Certificates
- Proof of income
This saves time when applications open.
What Students Online Are Saying
Some South African students on Reddit advise applicants to contact university financial aid offices directly because many internal bursaries are not widely advertised. Others recommend applying before final acceptance letters are released because provisional acceptance may still work for applications.
Expert Career Tip
Many bursary providers are not only looking for high marks. They also want students who show:
- Leadership
- Commitment
- Good communication
- Career goals
- Community involvement
A strong motivational letter can sometimes make a major difference.
Avoid:
- Copying generic motivation letters
- Submitting blurry documents
- Missing closing dates
- Providing false information
Professional applications stand out quickly.
Explore More Opportunities
If you are interested in education funding and career development, also consider:
Final Thoughts
Studying after matric can feel impossible when money is limited, but bursaries continue creating opportunities for thousands of South African students every year.
Whether you want to study engineering, teaching, business, science or technology, there are funding opportunities available if you start applying early and stay consistent.
The important thing is not to give up after one rejection. Many successful students applied multiple times before receiving funding.
Start preparing your documents now, research opportunities carefully and apply for as many suitable bursaries as possible.
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