Western Cape Department of Health Bursaries 2027: Apply for Health Science Studies

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year. This opportunity is for unemployed South African citizens residing in the Western Cape who wish to pursue full-time studies in selected Health Science qualifications. Successful applicants will receive financial assistance and must sign a contract with the Department.

Application Closing Date: 30 September 2026
Location: Western Cape, South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Not specified (financial assistance towards study costs)
Minimum Qualification: Matric (Grade 12)
Opportunity Type: Bursary

About the Western Cape Department of Health Bursary

This bursary programme aims to support students who want to study specific health science fields. It is designed to help address the need for qualified healthcare professionals within the Western Cape province. The bursary provides financial aid for selected study costs, helping to make higher education more accessible for aspiring health workers.

About the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness

The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is responsible for providing healthcare services to the residents of the Western Cape province. They work to ensure that all citizens have access to quality health services, from primary care to specialized medical treatment. The department plays a critical role in public health and aims to improve the well-being of the community through various health initiatives and programmes.

Available Bursary Opportunities

Bursaries are available for the following Health Science qualifications:

• Emergency Care Assistant, Higher Certificate
• Emergency Medical Care, National Diploma
• Medicine, Degree
• Nursing R169, Higher Certificate
• Nursing R171, General Nurse, Diploma
• Nursing R174
• Nursing, B Degree
• Occupational Therapy, Bachelor of Science
• Pharmacy, Degree
• Physiotherapy, Degree
• Speech Therapy, Degree

The Department may adjust this list of qualifications based on its service delivery needs each year.

What the Bursary Offers

Successful bursary recipients will receive financial assistance for the following study-related costs:

• Registration fees
• Tuition fees
• Examination fees

Please note that accommodation fees are not covered by this bursary.

Bursary Obligations

After graduating, bursary holders are required to work for the government. This includes completing a community service year, which counts towards the initial bursary obligation. Following community service, bursary holders must seek employment within the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness and work back the remaining years as per their contract. Internships do not count towards this work-back period. Failure to complete the work-back obligation may require recipients to refund the Department for all bursary expenses.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for this bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Reside within the Western Cape province.
• Be unemployed.
• Have completed Matric (Grade 12).
• Be studying or plan to study full-time towards one of the listed Health Science qualifications.
• Be studying, accepted, or awaiting acceptance at a relevant accredited Higher Education Institution.
• Be enthusiastic, hardworking, and committed to your studies.
• Be willing to complete clinical hours where required.
• Not have a criminal record.

Competencies Required

While not explicitly listed as formal requirements, applicants should ideally demonstrate the following qualities:

• A strong commitment to a career in healthcare.
• Willingness to learn and adapt to new environments.
• Ability to work under pressure, especially in clinical settings.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.
• A proactive and self-motivated approach to studies and future work.

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is ideal for unemployed young people in the Western Cape who are passionate about health sciences and are determined to pursue a career in fields such as medicine, nursing, pharmacy, or therapy. If you have completed Matric, meet the residency and unemployment criteria, and are accepted or applying to study one of the specified qualifications, this bursary can provide the financial support you need to achieve your academic and career goals in healthcare.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and upload clear copies of the following documents:

• Certified copy of your ID document.
• Certified copy of your Matric certificate.
• Certified copy of your most recent qualification or academic results.
• Certified proof of residence.
• Certified proof of parents or guardians’ income (e.g., latest payslips, SASSA letter, SARS tax certificate).
• Certified proof of disability, if applicable.
• A motivational letter supporting your application.

Ensure all documents are certified and uploaded correctly to avoid disqualification.

How to Apply

Step 1: Register an account on the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness Bursary Platform.

Step 2: Log in to the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness Bursary Platform.

Step 3: Complete the online application form accurately.

Step 4: Upload clear copies of all required supporting documents as listed above.

Applicants should ensure they complete all steps before the closing date.

Important Notes

• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Late applications will not be considered.
• Applicants must meet all minimum requirements to be eligible.
• Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
• Ensure all submitted documents are certified copies.
• Apply before the closing date of 30 September 2026.

Closing Date

The closing date for the Western Cape Department of Health Bursaries 2027 is 30 September 2026. Applications received after this date will not be processed.

SHARE THIS POST WITH OTHERS.