University fees in South Africa range from R30,000 to R100,000+ per year depending on the institution and programme. That’s a number that stops most families in their tracks. But here’s what many don’t know: billions of rands in bursary funding goes unclaimed every year because families don’t know where to look or miss the application deadlines. This guide covers every major funding option, when to apply, and how to avoid the mistakes that cost students their funding.
NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme)
NSFAS is the government’s financial aid programme for students from low-income households. It covers tuition, accommodation, a living allowance, and book allowance at public universities and TVET colleges.
Who qualifies:
- Combined household income under R350,000 per year
- South African citizen or permanent resident
- Accepted at a public university or TVET college
- SASSA grant recipients qualify automatically
What it covers:
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation (on-campus or allowance for off-campus)
- Living allowance (paid monthly)
- Book and learning materials allowance
- Travel allowance (for students living off-campus)
When to apply: Applications usually open in September and close in January. Apply as early as possible — don’t wait for your matric results. Visit nsfas.org.za for current deadlines.
Important: NSFAS for university is a bursary (you don’t pay it back) if you complete your qualification. If you drop out, it converts to a loan.
Funza Lushaka Bursary
If you want to become a teacher, this is the best bursary available. It covers full tuition, accommodation, books, and a living allowance for a Bachelor of Education or PGCE.
The catch: You must teach at a public school for the same number of years that you received the bursary. If you received it for 4 years, you teach for 4 years. The Department of Education places you at a school — you don’t choose.
Apply at: funzalushaka.doe.gov.za
Corporate Bursaries
Many large South African companies offer bursaries, especially in fields where they need skilled graduates:
Mining and Engineering:
- Anglo American, Sasol, Exxaro, Harmony Gold
- Fields: Engineering, Geology, Chemistry, Environmental Science
Banking and Finance:
- Standard Bank, FNB, Nedbank, Absa, Old Mutual
- Fields: Accounting, Finance, Actuarial Science, IT, Data Science
Technology:
- MTN, Vodacom, Telkom
- Fields: IT, Computer Science, Engineering, Data Analytics
Retail and FMCG:
- Shoprite, Pick n Pay, Unilever, Tiger Brands
- Fields: Supply Chain, Marketing, Finance, IT
Government and Parastatals:
- Eskom, Transnet, SANRAL
- Fields: Engineering, Finance, HR, IT
How to find them: Search “[company name] bursary 2026” or check bursary aggregator sites. Most applications open between July and October for the following year.
University-Specific Bursaries and Scholarships
Every university offers its own financial aid:
- Merit scholarships — automatic for top academic performers (usually 80%+)
- Need-based bursaries — apply through the university’s financial aid office
- Sports scholarships — for provincial or national level athletes
- Faculty-specific funding — departments often have dedicated bursaries
Pro tip: Contact the financial aid office of your target university directly. Ask: “What bursaries and scholarships are available for [your programme]?” Many bursaries are under-advertised and under-applied-for.
When to Apply: The Timeline
| When | What |
|---|---|
| Grade 11, Term 2 | Start researching bursaries, make a list |
| July–September | Most corporate bursary applications open |
| September–November | NSFAS applications open |
| October–January | University-specific bursary applications |
| January–February | Funza Lushaka applications |
| March | Most bursaries announce results |
The biggest mistake: waiting until matric results are out. By then, most deadlines have passed. Start in Grade 11.
How to Write a Strong Bursary Application
- Read the requirements carefully — if they ask for certified copies, send certified copies
- Write a personal statement that’s specific — “I want to study engineering because I built a solar-powered phone charger in Grade 10 from scrap parts” beats “I have a passion for engineering”
- Include your Grade 11 results — even if they ask for matric marks, strong Grade 11 results strengthen your application
- Get references early — ask teachers in Term 3, not the week before the deadline
- Apply to multiple bursaries — don’t put all your eggs in one basket
- Keep copies of everything — you’ll need the same documents for multiple applications
Common Mistakes That Cost Students Funding
- Missing deadlines — the #1 reason students don’t get funded
- Incomplete applications — missing one document can disqualify you
- Only applying to NSFAS — there are hundreds of other options
- Not applying because “I probably won’t qualify” — you miss 100% of the bursaries you don’t apply for
- Waiting for matric results — apply based on Grade 11 marks
- Generic personal statements — bursary committees read thousands of applications. Stand out by being specific and genuine.
If You Don’t Get a Bursary
- TVET colleges are significantly more affordable and NSFAS funds TVET students
- Part-time study while working is possible at many institutions
- Student loans from banks (last resort — understand the interest rates before committing)
- Work for a year and save, then study (many employers offer study assistance for employees)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I hold more than one bursary at the same time?
Generally no — most bursaries have exclusivity clauses. However, some allow you to hold a bursary plus a university merit scholarship. Read the terms carefully and disclose all funding to avoid problems.
Q: What if my household income is just above the NSFAS threshold?
You may still qualify for university-specific need-based bursaries or corporate bursaries that have different income thresholds. The “missing middle” (too wealthy for NSFAS, too poor for full fees) is a recognised challenge, and many institutions have dedicated funding for this group.
Q: Do I need to pay a bursary back if I fail?
It depends on the bursary terms. NSFAS converts to a loan if you don’t complete your qualification. Some corporate bursaries require you to work for the company — if you don’t, you may need to repay. Always read the contract before signing.
Q: Can I apply for bursaries if I’m already at university?
Yes. Many bursaries accept applications from current students, not just incoming first-years. Check with your university’s financial aid office and corporate bursary providers.
Preparing for matric and university applications? Quality study guides and exam prep resources on LeagueIQ can help you achieve the marks you need for bursary eligibility — all aligned to South African curricula.
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