IDC Bursaries 2027: Your Guide to Funding Your Studies

Published August 13, 2026

Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) Bursaries 2027: Apply for Funding

About the IDC Bursary Programme 2027

The IDC External Bursary Programme aims to support students pursuing qualifications in fields critical for South Africa’s economic and industrial development. This bursary is primarily for students undertaking their first undergraduate degree. However, in certain specific fields, limited postgraduate funding might be considered. The programme is designed to invest in the country’s future by developing skilled professionals.

About the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC)

The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) is a national development finance institution. It was established to promote economic growth and industrial development in South Africa. The IDC provides funding and support to businesses across various sectors, helping to create jobs and drive innovation. They focus on sectors that have the potential to contribute significantly to the country’s economy.

Fields of Study Funded

The IDC supports a wide range of fields considered important for South Africa’s development. These include various branches of Engineering, Science, Technology, Agriculture, Commerce, Finance, Law, and quantitative disciplines.

Engineering Fields

Industrial Engineering
Chemical Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Electronic Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Mechatronic Engineering
Mining Engineering
Metallurgy Engineering
Civil Engineering
Construction Engineering
Quantity Surveying

Science and Technology Fields

Analytical Chemistry
Physics
Biotechnology
Geology
Environmental Science
Bachelor of Science programmes
Mathematics
Statistics
Data Science
Computer Science
Information Science
Information Technology
BCom Information Systems

Agricultural Studies

Agricultural Studies
Agriculture-related qualifications

Finance and Commerce Fields

Accounting – CA stream
Financial Management
Internal Audit
Cost and Management Accounting
Investment Management
Risk Management
Finance Studies
Economics
Econometrics
Financial Accounting
Financial Engineering
Business Management
Entrepreneurship

Supply Chain and Logistics Fields

Transport Management
Logistics Management
Supply Chain Management

Law Qualifications

BCom Law – Commercial Law
Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
Diploma Law Studies
Selected postgraduate Law qualifications

Quantitative Fields

Actuarial Science
Quantitative Risk Management
Mathematics
Statistics

What the IDC Bursary Covers

Successful bursary recipients can expect comprehensive financial support for their studies. This includes coverage for essential academic expenses.

The bursary typically covers:

Registration fees
Tuition fees
Examination fees where applicable
University residence accommodation
University-accredited off-campus accommodation
Academic resources
Meal allowance
Transport allowance
A once-off laptop allocation

Programme Duration and Location

The bursary is intended for full-time study at South African public universities and universities of technology. The specific duration of the funding will depend on the length of the chosen qualification. The programme is open to students across South Africa who meet the eligibility criteria.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet several criteria to be considered for the IDC Bursary Programme. These requirements ensure that the bursary supports students who are most likely to succeed and contribute to the nation’s development.

General Requirements

Be a South African citizen.
Possess a valid South African ID.
Be unemployed.
Be no older than 26 years old.
Be studying or planning to study full-time.
Attend or intend to attend a South African public university or university of technology.
Meet the required academic standards for the chosen field of study.
Be pursuing an eligible field of study as listed by the IDC.

Requirements for Current Matric Learners

Submit Grade 11 final results.
Submit June 2026 Grade 12 results.
Preference is given to applicants with an APS of 75% or higher.

Requirements for Current University Students

Achieve at least a 65% average in your latest academic results.
Bursary recipients must maintain a minimum 60% GPA throughout the funding period.

Household Income Requirements

Preference is given to applicants with a combined household income of R350,000 per annum or less.
Applicants from households earning between R350,000 and R600,000 per annum may be considered, subject to an affordability assessment.

Competencies Required

While academic merit is key, the IDC also looks for candidates who show potential for growth and contribution.

Consideration may be given to:

Students living with disabilities.
Learners from Quintile 1, 2, and 3 schools.
Applicants from rural communities.
Students from historically disadvantaged communities.
Academically strong candidates.
Applicants demonstrating financial need.

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is ideal for ambitious South African students who are passionate about contributing to the country’s industrial and economic growth. If you are facing financial challenges but have a strong academic record and a desire to study in a critical field, this opportunity could be for you. It is particularly suited for those pursuing their first undergraduate qualification.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit clear copies of all required supporting documents. Incomplete applications may be rejected.

Core Documents

Recently certified South African ID (not older than three months).
Recently certified proof of residence.
Latest academic results.
2026 mid-year results (where applicable).
Matric certificate (if Matric has already been completed).
Grade 11 final results (for current Matric learners).
June 2026 Grade 12 results (for current Matric learners).

Parent or Guardian Financial Documents

Depending on your household situation, you might need to provide:

Latest payslips.
Three months’ bank statements.
Affidavit for unemployed parents or guardians.
Six months’ bank statements for self-employed parents.
SASSA grant confirmation letter.
Death certificates (if parents are deceased).
Certified copies of parents’ IDs.
Divorce certificate (where applicable).
Sworn statement (if parents are separated).

How to Apply

Applications for the IDC Bursary Programme 2027 must be submitted online. Ensure you follow all instructions carefully to avoid disqualification.

Click here to apply for Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) Bursary Programme 2027

When applying online:

Complete the application form accurately.
Complete the required interview questionnaire.
Upload all compulsory supporting documents.
Verify that all personal and academic information is correct.
Submit your application before the closing date.

Important Notes

Please keep the following points in mind regarding your application:

This bursary is exclusively for South African citizens aged 26 or younger.
Full-time study at a public tertiary institution is mandatory.
The programme prioritizes financially disadvantaged students.
Current university students need a minimum academic average of 65%.
Matric learners must provide their Grade 11 final and June 2026 Grade 12 results.
The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, meals, transport, and a laptop.
Second qualifications are generally not funded, though limited postgraduate support is available in specific fields.
Ensure all supporting documents are certified and submitted correctly.
Applications close on 30 September 2026.

Closing Date

The application period for the IDC Bursary Programme 2027 closes on 30 September 2026. It is strongly advised to submit your application well before this date to avoid any last-minute issues.

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