Bursaries Closing 13-20 November 2026: Apply Now for 2027 Funding

South African students and Grade 12 learners still have a chance to secure funding for their 2027 studies. Several bursary opportunities are closing between November 13 and November 20, 2026. These bursaries cover a range of fields, including Engineering, Finance, IT, Agriculture, and Health Sciences.

Application Closing Date: 13-20 November 2026
Location: South Africa
Programme Duration: Varies by bursary
Stipend: Varies by bursary
Minimum Qualification: Varies by bursary

About Bursaries Closing by 20 November 2026

This period offers a critical window for students seeking financial support for the 2027 academic year. The bursaries are designed to assist learners and students across various disciplines, helping them overcome financial barriers to education. Fields of study supported are diverse, aiming to meet the country’s skills demands.

Many of these bursaries are specifically targeted towards scarce and critical skills identified within South Africa. This ensures that funding is directed towards areas where skilled professionals are most needed. Applicants are encouraged to act quickly, especially for those with earlier closing dates.

Available Bursary Opportunities

Here are some of the bursaries with closing dates between November 13 and November 20, 2026:

• Witzenberg Municipality Mayoral Bursary Programme 2027: Focuses on qualifications linked to municipal scarce and critical skills.
• Free State Provincial Government Bursary 2027: Supports studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics, Finance, Economics, Accounting, Psychology, Social Sciences, Aviation, Public Governance, and Development Studies.
• Transcend Corporate Advisors Bursary 2027: For students entering their second or third year of study in Accounting, Economics, Finance, Financial Management, Investment Management, Actuarial Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Data Science, Computer Science, Information Systems, and Business Analytics.
• North West Provincial Government Victor Thebe Sifora Provincial Bursary Scheme 2027: Covers fields like Engineering, Health Sciences, Education, Agriculture, Finance, Information Technology, Social Development, Public Administration, and Environmental Sciences.
• ABB Education Trust Bursary 2027: Primarily for Black female students pursuing Electrical, Industrial, or Mechanical Engineering.
• Donald White / Mandla A. Ndwanya Memorial Fund Magurtha H. White Bursary Programme 2027: Supports undergraduate studies in Business Studies, Commerce, Education, Healthcare, Medicine, and Social Work.
• FEM Bursary 2027: Funds studies in Engineering, Built Environment, and Health Sciences.
• South African Table Grape Industry (SATI) Bursary 2027: Supports studies related to the table grape industry, including agricultural programmes like Viticulture and Oenology, Plant and Soil Sciences, and Crop Production.
• NSFAS Funding Applications 2027: For students planning to study at public universities and TVET colleges.
• Ruwacon Bursary 2027: For students in construction, engineering, and the built environment, including Civil Engineering, Construction Management, Project Management, Quantity Surveying, and Surveying.

What the Bursaries Offer

The benefits provided by these bursaries vary but generally aim to alleviate the financial burden of tertiary education. Successful applicants can expect support that may include:

• Funding for tuition fees and registration fees.
• Assistance with the cost of prescribed textbooks.
• A monthly stipend to help with living expenses.
• Support for accommodation and meals.
• Funding for transport.
• Exposure to relevant industries through practical experience or research opportunities.

Programme Duration and Location

The duration of these bursary programmes varies depending on the specific bursary and the course of study. Most bursaries are intended to support students throughout their undergraduate or postgraduate studies. The locations for these bursaries are primarily within South Africa, with some specifically targeting residents of certain provinces like the Western Cape, Free State, North West, or Gauteng.

Minimum Requirements

While specific requirements differ for each bursary, common criteria include:

• Citizenship: South African citizenship or permanent residency.
• Age: Typically between 18 and 35 years old, though some may have different age limits.
• Residency: Some bursaries require applicants to reside permanently within a specific municipality or province.
• Academic Performance: A minimum academic average or specific subject passes may be required, especially for engineering and finance fields.
• Financial Need: Many bursaries consider household income, with limits often set around R350,000 per year for non-SASSA beneficiaries.
• Study Field: Applicants must be pursuing or intending to pursue studies in fields supported by the specific bursary.
• Institution: Must be studying or planning to study at a recognised public higher education institution or TVET college.
• Employment Status: Often targeted at unemployed youth or students.

Competencies Required

Beyond academic qualifications, certain skills and personal attributes are often valued by bursary providers:

• Strong academic potential and a commitment to learning.
• Good communication skills.
• Computer literacy.
• Interpersonal skills and the ability to work with others.
• A willingness to learn and adapt.
• A professional attitude and self-motivation.
• Attention to detail.
• Community involvement and leadership potential may be considered.

Who Should Apply?

These bursaries are ideal for ambitious South African students and Grade 12 learners who are passionate about their chosen fields of study and require financial assistance to pursue their educational goals. They are particularly suited for individuals who are committed to academic excellence and aim to contribute to the country’s scarce skills sectors. If you are a resident of the specified provinces or municipalities and meet the academic and financial criteria, these opportunities could be a great fit for you.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents for their applications:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Certified copy of South African ID document.
• Certified copy of Grade 12 (Matric) certificate or latest academic results.
• Certified copies of any tertiary qualifications or transcripts.
• Proof of acceptance or registration at a tertiary institution (if applicable).
• Proof of residence.
• Proof of household income (e.g., payslips, UIF letters, affidavit if unemployed).
• A motivational letter, if requested by the bursary provider.

Always check the specific requirements for each bursary as document needs can vary.

How to Apply

The application process for these bursaries varies. For some, like the NSFAS funding, applications are done online through the myNSFAS portal. For others, like the Witzenberg Municipality Bursary, specific application forms may need to be downloaded and submitted.

• Check the official advert: Always refer to the official bursary advertisement for precise application instructions.
• Prepare documents: Gather all required documents, ensuring they are certified and up-to-date.
• Complete forms accurately: Fill out application forms completely and truthfully.
• Submit on time: Ensure your application is submitted before the specified closing date and time.
• Follow instructions: Adhere strictly to all application guidelines provided by the bursary organisation.

For specific application links, please refer to the original source or the bursary provider’s website.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessment or interviews.
• Late applications will not be considered.
• Ensure you meet all the minimum requirements before applying.
• Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
• Certified copies of documents are often required; ensure they are recent.
• Apply as early as possible, especially for bursaries with imminent closing dates.

Closing Date

The closing dates for these bursaries are as follows:

• 13 November 2026: Witzenberg Municipality, Free State Provincial Government, Transcend Corporate Advisors, North West Provincial Government.
• 14 November 2026: ABB Education Trust.
• 15 November 2026: Donald White / Mandla A. Ndwanya Memorial Fund.
• 16 November 2026: FEM, South African Table Grape Industry (SATI).
• 18 November 2026: NSFAS Funding Applications.
• 20 November 2026: Ruwacon Bursary.

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