Planning to study in 2027 but worried about how you will pay for university or college?

You are not alone.

Tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, registration fees, transport and other student expenses can make higher education extremely expensive. Fortunately, there are many bursaries for 2027 studies in South Africa that can help qualifying students cover some or even most of these costs.

The important thing is to start looking early.

Many bursaries for the 2027 academic year have application deadlines between September and December 2026, while some programmes open later. Others, such as the Funza Lushaka Bursary, have application periods extending into January 2027.

This guide explains where to find 2027 bursaries in South Africa, who can apply, what documents you may need, which fields of study are commonly funded, and how to improve your chances of receiving funding.

Important: Bursary deadlines can change. Always confirm the closing date and requirements on the official bursary provider’s website before submitting an application.

What Are Bursaries for 2027 Studies?

A bursary is financial assistance provided to a student to help pay for education.

Depending on the bursary programme, funding may cover:

Tuition fees
Registration fees
Accommodation
Meals
Textbooks
Learning materials
Transport
Allowances
Examination fees
A laptop or other study equipment

Not every bursary covers all these expenses. Some provide comprehensive funding, while others only contribute towards tuition or specific study-related costs.

Bursaries are offered by government departments, universities, companies, trusts, foundations, professional organisations and other institutions.

Some are aimed at students studying specific subjects, while others are open to students from a wider range of academic fields.

NSFAS 2027 Applications

One of the most important funding opportunities for students planning to study in 2027 is the National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS).

NSFAS provides financial assistance to eligible South African students studying at public universities and TVET colleges.

For the 2027 academic year, NSFAS applications opened on 18 September 2026. The current NSFAS website states that applications close on 31 October 2026 at 23:59 South African time. NSFAS has also warned applicants not to wait until the deadline to apply.

NSFAS applications are free.

According to the published NSFAS requirements, non-SASSA applicants generally need a gross combined household income of R350,000 or less per year for bursary funding, while persons with disabilities have a higher income threshold of R600,000 or less. Verified SASSA grant recipients automatically meet the financial requirement, subject to the other applicable criteria.

NSFAS funding can apply to approved undergraduate qualifications at public universities and TVET colleges.

Students should create their myNSFAS profile, complete the application, upload the required documents and submit the application before the deadline.

Apply through the official NSFAS website

What documents can NSFAS applicants need?

Depending on your circumstances, NSFAS may require documents such as:

South African ID documents
Parent or guardian ID documents
Consent forms
Proof of income where applicable
Disability-related documentation where applicable
Declaration forms where applicable
Other supporting documents requested through myNSFAS

The exact documents required can depend on your application circumstances, so applicants should check their myNSFAS profile carefully.

Funza Lushaka Bursary 2027

Students who want to become teachers should pay particular attention to the Funza Lushaka Bursary.

The official Funza Lushaka website states that applications for the 2027 bursary opened on 1 October 2026.

New applications close on 31 January 2027, while applications from existing or returning bursars close earlier, on 30 November 2026. First-time applicants must be 30 years or younger.

The programme is designed to support students entering the teaching profession.

If teaching is your career goal, Funza Lushaka should be one of the bursaries you investigate early.

Applications are made through the government e-Services platform.

Visit the official Funza Lushaka website

CSIR Bursary Programme 2027

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) offers bursaries aimed at developing skills in science, engineering and technology.

The CSIR’s 2027 bursary programme supports the development of a pipeline of scientists, engineers and technologists for South Africa.

The CSIR also lists a 2027 CSIR-Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme, which supports undergraduate studies in relevant STEM fields.

The 2027 CSIR bursary applications opened earlier in 2026 and the listed closing date was 15 September 2026. Students should nevertheless monitor the CSIR bursary page for future opportunities and other funding programmes.

View CSIR bursary opportunities

DFFE Bursary Programme 2027

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) has also advertised its 2027 full-time bursary programme.

The programme is available to qualifying full-time students enrolled at institutions of higher learning as well as eligible Grade 12 learners who are not employed.

The DFFE states that the maximum bursary amount is R80,000.

The listed closing date for the 2027 programme is 2 October 2026, and the department states that late applications will not be accepted.

Fields supported by the programme are related to areas such as:

Forestry
Fisheries
Environmental management
Conservation
Environmental sciences
Oceans and coastal studies
Related environmental fields

Applicants should carefully read the official requirements before applying.

View the DFFE bursary information

Sasol Foundation Bursary 2027

The Sasol Foundation announced its 2027 bursary programme for academically talented learners and students.

The programme primarily supports STEM disciplines, including areas such as:

Engineering
Engineering Technology
Information Technology
Data Science
Environmental Sciences

A limited number of bursaries may also be awarded in selected non-STEM fields, including Accounting and Financial Sciences.

For the 2027 intake, Sasol stated that applications were open from 1 August to 23 August 2026.

Although that application window has passed, students should continue monitoring the Sasol Foundation for future bursary opportunities.

Visit Sasol Foundation information

South African Reserve Bank Bursary 2027

The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) also offers an external bursary scheme for undergraduate studies.

The SARB says its bursary programme is intended to help address skills shortages in South Africa and supports students from disadvantaged backgrounds studying relevant fields.

Students interested in areas connected to economics, finance, statistics, mathematics, information technology and other relevant disciplines should monitor the programme’s annual requirements.

View the SARB 2027 External Bursary Scheme

National Treasury 2027 Bursary

The National Treasury also advertises external bursary opportunities.

Its 2027 external bursary listing had a closing date of 30 September 2026. National Treasury also advertised its 2027 Chartered Accountants Academy programme with a separate closing date.

Students interested in accounting, finance, economics and related career paths should regularly check National Treasury’s official opportunities.

Visit National Treasury’s graduate opportunities page

SANZAF Bursary 2027

The South African National Zakah Fund (SANZAF) has opened applications for its 2027 bursary programme.

The current application portal states that applications should be submitted by 31 December 2026.

SANZAF notes that its bursaries provide partial funding towards fees, meaning applicants should not necessarily rely on the bursary as their only source of financial assistance. The organisation encourages students to consider additional funding opportunities, including NSFAS.

Applicants are required to submit supporting documentation, which can include:

Proof of income
Certified identity documents
Motivational letter
Testimonial

Apply through the SANZAF bursary portal

IMESA Bursary 2027

Students studying Civil Engineering should also investigate the IMESA Bursary.

IMESA offers financial assistance for full-time studies in Civil Engineering, with other engineering disciplines potentially considered at the organisation’s discretion.

The bursary can cover tuition fees and books and is paid to the relevant tertiary institution.

IMESA’s 2027 bursary application deadline was 15 September 2026.

View IMESA bursary information

Volkswagen Bursary 2027

Another opportunity students may encounter for the 2027 academic year is the Volkswagen Group Africa Bursary.

The programme is aimed at qualifying South African-born candidates studying at accredited tertiary institutions in South Africa.

Fields mentioned in the 2027 opportunity include areas such as:

Mechatronics Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Industrial Engineering
Digital Marketing
Logistics and Supply Chain
Production Management
Operations Management
Information Technology
Computer Science
Data Science
Statistics
Informatics
Cybersecurity
Artificial Intelligence
Machine Learning

The opportunity is particularly relevant to students already in their second to fourth year of study.

What Fields of Study Can Be Funded in 2027?

One of the biggest mistakes students make is searching for bursaries without considering their field of study.

Many bursaries are specifically designed to address skills shortages.

Popular funded fields include:

Engineering

Engineering remains one of the most commonly supported fields.

Possible disciplines include:

Civil Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Industrial Engineering
Mining Engineering
Mechatronics Engineering

Information Technology

Technology-related qualifications are also frequently supported.

These may include:

Computer Science
Information Technology
Data Science
Informatics
Cybersecurity
Artificial Intelligence
Software Development
Information Systems

Accounting and Finance

Students interested in accounting and finance can look for bursaries from government departments, financial institutions, professional firms and private companies.

Possible qualifications include:

BCom Accounting
Financial Accounting
Chartered Accountancy
Finance
Economics
Auditing

Teaching

Students who want to become teachers can investigate programmes such as Funza Lushaka.

Environmental Studies

Government departments and environmental organisations may fund studies in:

Environmental Science
Forestry
Fisheries
Conservation
Environmental Management
Marine Science
Environmental Law

Health Sciences

Health-related fields may also receive funding through government departments, universities, hospitals, foundations and private organisations.

Who Can Apply for a 2027 Bursary?

Every bursary has its own eligibility requirements.

However, common requirements include:

Being a South African citizen
Being a permanent resident where permitted by the funder
Having strong academic results
Being accepted or intending to study at a recognised institution
Studying an approved qualification
Meeting the required household income level
Meeting the required age limit
Living in a particular province or municipality
Coming from a disadvantaged or low-income household
Studying a scarce-skills qualification

Some bursaries are also specifically targeted at:

Women
Students with disabilities
Students from rural communities
Students from specific provinces
Children of employees
Students from specific municipalities
Students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds
Postgraduate students

Never assume that you qualify simply because you are a South African student.

Read the complete eligibility criteria before applying.

What Documents Do You Need for a Bursary Application?

Although requirements differ, it is a good idea to prepare your documents before bursary applications open.

Common documents include:

1. South African ID

You will usually need a certified or clear copy of your South African identity document.

2. Matric Certificate

If you have already completed Grade 12, you may need to submit your matric certificate.

3. Latest Academic Results

Current university students will often need to provide their latest academic transcript or results.

4. Proof of Registration

Some bursaries require proof that you are already registered at a university or college.

5. Proof of University Acceptance

First-year applicants may need an acceptance letter or proof of application.

6. Proof of Household Income

Depending on the bursary, you may need payslips, an affidavit, grant documentation or other proof of household income.

7. Motivational Letter

Some bursaries require applicants to explain why they deserve the funding.

8. Parent or Guardian Documents

Applicants who are financially dependent on their parents or guardians may need to provide their documents as well.

9. Academic Transcript

Students already at university may need to provide their latest academic record.

10. Proof of Residence

Certain bursaries, particularly municipal and provincial opportunities, may require proof that you live in a specific area.

How to Apply for Bursaries for 2027

Applying for a bursary does not have to be complicated.

Follow these steps.

Step 1: Choose Your Course

Before looking for funding, decide what you want to study.

For example, you might want to study:

BSc Computer Science

Bachelor of Engineering

Knowing your qualification makes it much easier to identify relevant bursaries.

Step 2: Search for Suitable Bursaries

Look for bursaries matching:

Your qualification
Your academic level
Your location
Your academic results
Your financial circumstances
Your career goals

Do not apply only for the most popular bursary.

Apply for several legitimate opportunities where you meet the requirements.

Step 3: Check the Closing Date

Never assume that all 2027 bursaries close at the same time.

Some close as early as August or September 2026, while others may remain open until December 2026 or January 2027.

Step 4: Read the Requirements

This is extremely important.

Before spending time completing an application, check:

Required subjects
Minimum marks
Age requirements
Household income requirements
Citizenship requirements
Qualification requirements
Institution requirements

Step 5: Prepare Your Documents

Create a folder on your phone or computer containing your important documents.

For example:

2027 Bursary Applications

Inside the folder, keep:

ID
Matric certificate
Academic results
Proof of income
Proof of residence
Acceptance letter
Registration letter
CV
Motivational letter

This can make applying to multiple bursaries much faster.

Step 6: Apply Directly

Whenever possible, apply through the bursary provider’s official website or application portal.

Be cautious of websites or individuals asking you to pay money simply to submit a bursary application.

Legitimate opportunities should clearly explain their application process.

Step 7: Save Your Proof of Application

After submitting an application, save:

Confirmation email
Application reference number
Screenshot of successful submission
Copies of documents submitted

You may need these details later.

How to Increase Your Chances of Getting a 2027 Bursary

Competition for bursaries can be extremely high.

Simply submitting an application does not guarantee funding.

Here are several ways to improve your chances.

Apply Early

Do not wait until the final day.

Technical problems, missing documents and incorrect information can cause problems close to the deadline.

Apply for Multiple Bursaries

There is nothing wrong with applying for several bursaries provided you meet their requirements.

You should not rely on a single application.

Keep Your Marks Strong

Academic performance remains one of the most important selection criteria for many bursaries.

Pay particular attention to subjects relevant to your intended qualification.

Write a Strong Motivation

If a motivation letter is required, don’t simply write:

“I need money to study.”

Explain:

What you want to study
Why you chose the field
What your career goals are
Why you are a suitable candidate
How your education could contribute to your community
Why financial support would make a difference

Follow Instructions

If the application asks for PDFs, submit PDFs.

If it asks for certified documents, provide certified documents where required.

If it requires a specific subject combination, make sure you meet it.

Small mistakes can result in an otherwise strong application being rejected.

Bursaries vs NSFAS: What’s the Difference?

Many students ask whether they should apply for a bursary or NSFAS.

The simple answer is:

Where you are eligible, investigate both.

NSFAS is a government student funding scheme primarily supporting eligible students at public universities and TVET colleges.

Private bursaries are offered by companies, trusts, foundations, government departments and other organisations.

A private bursary may be restricted to a particular field, university, province or group of students.

Some private bursaries can provide comprehensive funding, while others cover only particular expenses.

Can You Apply for More Than One Bursary?

Yes, you can generally submit applications to multiple bursary programmes.

In fact, applying to several suitable bursaries can improve your chances of receiving funding.

However, you must always read the terms and conditions.

Some bursary providers may have rules about receiving other funding at the same time.

If you are awarded more than one bursary, disclose your other funding when required.

Do not provide false information on an application.

When Should You Apply for 2027 Bursaries?

The best time to start is before applications open.

For students planning to study in 2027, the preparation process should ideally start during 2026.

A useful timeline is:

June–August 2026

Start researching bursaries and preparing documents.

September–October 2026

This is an especially important period because many 2027 bursaries have deadlines around this time.

For example, NSFAS opened its 2027 applications in September 2026, while several government and private bursaries have September and October deadlines.

November–December 2026

Continue looking for opportunities that remain open.

Some postgraduate and private bursaries have later deadlines.

January 2027

Some bursary programmes may still accept applications.

Funza Lushaka, for example, lists 31 January 2027 as the closing date for new 2027 applications.

Don’t Wait Until January 2027

One of the biggest mistakes students can make is waiting until they receive their final matric results before searching for funding.

Many bursaries have already closed by then.

The 2027 application cycle is already underway, with several programmes having announced their deadlines months before the 2027 academic year begins.

For example, the current 2027 funding landscape includes NSFAS, Funza Lushaka, DFFE, SANZAF and various private and institutional bursaries.

Therefore, students should start researching and applying as soon as they become eligible.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bursaries for 2027

Are 2027 bursary applications open?

Yes. A number of bursaries for the 2027 academic year have already opened, while others have already closed and additional programmes may open later.

NSFAS 2027 applications are currently open according to the official NSFAS website, with a listed closing date of 31 October 2026.

When should I apply for a 2027 bursary?

Apply as early as possible.

Many bursaries have deadlines during 2026, even though the funding is for studies beginning in 2027.

Can Grade 12 learners apply for 2027 bursaries?

Yes. Many bursaries accept applications from current Grade 12 learners who intend to study at a tertiary institution in 2027.

However, the exact requirements differ between bursary programmes.

Can university students apply for 2027 bursaries?

Yes.

Many bursaries are available to students who are already studying, although some may be restricted to first-year students or students in specific years of study.

Do bursaries cover accommodation?

Some do, but not all.

A comprehensive bursary may cover tuition, accommodation, meals, books and other expenses, while another bursary may only contribute towards tuition.

Always read the funding coverage before applying.

Do I need excellent marks to get a bursary?

Not necessarily.

Some bursaries require very high academic results, while others use different criteria such as financial need, field of study, location or community circumstances.

However, strong academic results can improve your competitiveness.

Can I apply for NSFAS and private bursaries?

You can apply for both, provided you meet the respective requirements.

However, if you are eventually awarded funding from more than one source, check the rules of each provider and disclose other funding where required.

Are bursary applications free?

Many legitimate bursary programmes allow students to apply for free.

NSFAS specifically states that its application is free and warns applicants never to give their password or OTP to another person.

Be extremely cautious if somebody asks you for money simply to “guarantee” a bursary.

Final Thoughts: Start Your 2027 Bursary Search Now

Paying for tertiary education can be one of the biggest challenges facing South African students, but there are funding opportunities available.

The key is to start early, apply widely and follow the instructions carefully.

If you want to study in 2027, don’t wait until registration opens.

Start by identifying the course you want to study. Then search for bursaries that match your field, academic performance, financial circumstances and location.

Prepare your documents in advance and keep track of every closing date.

Most importantly, don’t depend on only one funding opportunity.

Apply for NSFAS if you qualify, investigate government bursaries, search for private company bursaries, check university funding opportunities and look for scholarships offered by trusts and foundations.

Your 2027 studies may be closer than you think—and the funding application you submit today could be the step that makes them possible.

Keep checking Bursaries Mzansi for new 2027 bursaries, closing dates, eligibility requirements and application information.