The NSFAS bursary remains a lifeline for thousands of South African students, but it cannot accommodate everyone who applies.
If your NSFAS application was unsuccessful, you may want to appeal, if not, you need to start searching for additional funding sources.
Many other bursaries like NSFAS exist across South Africa, offering comprehensive financial support for tuition fees, accommodation, meals, and study materials.
This guide explores proven alternatives to NSFAS for 2026, including government-funded programmes, corporate bursaries, and university-specific financial aid.
You’ll discover eligibility requirements, coverage details, application deadlines, and practical tips for securing funding.
Whether you’re pursuing teaching, engineering, business studies, or another field, alternative funding exists to support your academic journey.
Table of Contents
Why Consider Other Bursaries Like NSFAS?
NSFAS serves many students effectively, but exploring other bursaries like NSFAS strengthens your financial strategy.
Multiple funding sources exist that provide similar or even more comprehensive benefits than NSFAS alone.
Eligibility represents a primary reason to look beyond NSFAS. The “missing middle” category—students whose household income exceeds NSFAS thresholds but remains insufficient for university costs—particularly benefits from alternatives like ISFAP.
These programmes specifically target students earning between R350,000 and R600,000 annually, a bracket that NSFAS excludes.
Many alternative bursaries combine financial need with academic merit or field-specific requirements.
Programmes like Funza Lushaka focus exclusively on future teachers, while corporate bursaries from companies like Sasol or Transnet prioritize engineering and technical fields.
These specialized programmes often provide mentorship, vacation work opportunities, and potential employment after graduation—benefits that extend beyond pure financial support.
Applying to multiple bursaries simultaneously increases your funding chances significantly. Rather than depending on a single source, diversification creates safety nets.
Students can accept the most favorable offer if multiple applications succeed, or combine partial bursaries when rules permit.
Top Bursaries Like NSFAS for 2026
Government and Public Sector Alternatives
1. Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme
The Funza Lushaka programme targets students committed to teaching careers in South African public schools.
This NSFAS alternative addresses teacher shortages in critical subject areas, particularly in historically disadvantaged communities.
| Bursary Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | South African citizens under 30 years old accepted into Bachelor of Education or PGCE programmes, specializing in priority subjects like Mathematics, Physical Sciences, Indigenous African Languages, Technology, Accounting, or Special Needs Education |
| Coverage | Full cost bursary covering tuition, accommodation, meals, book allowance (approximately R5,200 annually), and teaching practice stipend. Total value can exceed R100,000 per year depending on institution |
| Obligation | Recipients must teach at public schools for the same number of years they received funding. Failure to fulfill this obligation converts the bursary to a loan with interest |
| Application Period | Opens on October 7, 2025, closes on January 24, 2026 |
| Selection Criteria | Academic merit (minimum 60% in relevant subjects), commitment to teaching, demonstrated financial need, and prioritization of underserved subject areas |
| Additional Benefits | Access to professional development opportunities, mentorship programmes, and guaranteed employment placement assistance upon graduation |
| Website | funzalushaka.doe.gov.za |
Who Should Apply: Students passionate about education who want job security after graduation.
This NSFAS alternative bursary suits individuals committed to making a difference in South African schools, particularly those interested in rural or township teaching positions.
2. Ikusasa Student Financial Aid Programme (ISFAP)
ISFAP bridges the gap between NSFAS and completely unfunded students, targeting the “missing middle” demographic—families earning too much for NSFAS but insufficient income to afford university costs.
| Bursary Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | South African citizens pursuing scarce skills qualifications (Engineering, Chartered Accountancy, Actuarial Science, Medicine, Built Environment, Animal and Veterinary Sciences) with household income between R0 and R600,000 annually |
| Coverage | Comprehensive funding for tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks, stipend, transport, and psychosocial support through a hybrid bursary-loan model. Students from lower income brackets receive more favorable terms |
| Repayment Structure | Contribution rates vary by income bracket: households earning R0-R350,000 receive full bursary with minimal repayment; R350,001-R600,000 face sliding scale repayment based on post-graduation income |
| Application Window | August through November or December of the preceding year (typically opens early August for following academic year) |
| Partner Universities | Available at most major South African universities including UCT, Wits, Stellenbosch, UWC, Rhodes, NWU, and others |
| Student Support | Provides academic monitoring, counseling services, peer support networks, and career guidance throughout your studies |
| Website | www.isfap.co.za |
Who Should Apply: “Missing middle” students pursuing high-demand professional qualifications who need comprehensive financial support beyond tuition alone.
Particularly beneficial for students whose families earn above NSFAS thresholds but struggle with university costs.
3. StudyTrust Bursaries
StudyTrust operates as an intermediary platform connecting students with multiple funding sponsors across various fields, prioritizing scarce skills development and disadvantaged backgrounds.
| Bursary Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Levels | Undergraduate, postgraduate, and TVET programmes across multiple disciplines |
| Eligibility | Financial need combined with academic potential (minimum 60% average recommended), preference for scarce skills fields including Engineering, Health Sciences, Education, Agriculture, and IT |
| Coverage | Varies by sponsor; typically includes tuition, accommodation, books, and living allowance. Some bursaries provide full cost while others offer partial funding |
| Application Deadline | 30 September annually (with some exceptions for specific sponsors who may have earlier or later deadlines) |
| Partner Organizations | Works with corporate sponsors, foundations, and individual donors to match students with appropriate funding |
| Application Process | Single application form distributed to multiple potential sponsors, increasing chances of securing funding |
| Success Rate | StudyTrust reports placing thousands of students annually with various sponsors |
| Website | studytrust.org.za |
Who Should Apply: Students from disadvantaged backgrounds pursuing any field of study.
The platform approach means one application reaches multiple potential sponsors, making it efficient for students applying to numerous bursaries.
4. National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) – TVET Colleges
While most students know about NSFAS for universities, the TVET college scheme offers an important alternative pathway for vocational and technical education.
| Bursary Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | South African citizens with combined household income up to R350,000 annually, registered at public TVET colleges for National Certificate (Vocational) or Report 191 programmes |
| Coverage | Full tuition fees, accommodation allowance, transport allowance, personal care allowance, and book/stationery allowance. Total annual support can reach R45,000-R60,000 depending on location |
| Programme Duration | Funding covers N1-N6 certificates and related vocational qualifications |
| Application Period | Opens annually around October through December for the following academic year |
| Qualification Types | Engineering studies, Business studies, Utilities studies, and various technical certificates |
| Post-Study Options | TVET qualifications provide pathways to employment or advanced diplomas at universities |
| Website | www.nsfas.org.za |
Who Should Apply: Students interested in practical, hands-on technical training rather than traditional university degrees.
TVET programmes offer faster routes to employment in high-demand technical fields.
5. Department of Social Development Bursary
The Department of Social Development funds students pursuing qualifications in social work and related fields to address the shortage of qualified social workers in South Africa.
| Bursary Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | South African citizens accepted for or enrolled in Bachelor of Social Work programmes at accredited institutions, demonstrating financial need |
| Coverage | Full tuition, prescribed textbooks, accommodation, and monthly allowance (approximately R3,000-R4,500 depending on year of study) |
| Obligation | Recipients must complete community service at designated Department of Social Development facilities for one year after graduation |
| Application Period | Typically opens May through July for the following academic year |
| Minimum Requirements | Matric certificate with minimum 50% in English and 60% average across top four subjects |
| Career Pathway | Guaranteed community service placement followed by potential permanent employment opportunities within government social services |
| Website | www.dsd.gov.za (check bursaries section) |
Who Should Apply: Students passionate about social justice, community development, and helping vulnerable populations. Ideal for those wanting to work in child protection, community development, or social welfare services.
Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) Bursaries
SETAs represent some of the most accessible alternatives to NSFAS, with clearer requirements and field-specific focus.
6. Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) Bursary
| Bursary Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus Areas | Mining Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Geology, Mine Surveying, Mineral Processing, Rock Engineering, Mine Environmental Management |
| Eligibility | South African citizens with minimum 60% average in Mathematics and Physical Science, accepted at recognized universities for relevant qualifications |
| Coverage | Full tuition fees, prescribed textbooks, accommodation allowance, meal allowance, and travel expenses. Annual value approximately R80,000-R120,000 |
| Application Deadline | July or August annually for following year intake (typically closes around 31 August) |
| Work Experience | Bursary holders receive vacation work opportunities at mining companies, providing practical experience and industry connections |
| Post-Study Opportunities | Strong employment prospects in mining sector with potential permanent placement at sponsoring companies |
| Geographic Scope | Particularly valuable for students in mining provinces like Limpopo, North West, Mpumalanga, and Northern Cape |
| Website | www.mqa.org.za |
Who Should Apply: Students interested in mining careers with strong mathematics and science backgrounds.
The mining industry offers excellent salaries and this bursary provides direct pathways to employment.
7. Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA) Bursary
| Bursary Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus Areas | Chemical Engineering, Analytical Chemistry, Industrial Engineering, Polymer Science, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotechnology, Process Technology |
| Eligibility | South African citizens with minimum 60% in Mathematics and Physical Science (65% preferred), studying at South African universities or universities of technology |
| Coverage | Full tuition, prescribed textbooks, and stipend for living expenses. May also include accommodation depending on financial need |
| Application Deadline | December annually (varies year-to-year; sometimes extends to January or February) |
| Industry Exposure | Opportunities for vacation work at chemical manufacturing companies, refineries, and pharmaceutical facilities |
| Participating Companies | Sasol, AECI, Omnia, and other chemical sector employers often recruit CHIETA bursary holders |
| Career Fields | Petroleum, plastics, pharmaceuticals, agrochemicals, explosives, and specialty chemicals manufacturing |
| Website | www.chieta.org.za |
Who Should Apply: Students fascinated by chemistry and engineering who want careers in manufacturing, research and development, or process optimization in the chemical industries.
8. Transport Education and Training Authority (TETA) Bursary
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus Areas | Logistics Management, Maritime Studies, Road Transport Management, Supply Chain Management, Aviation Studies, Rail Engineering, Port Operations |
| Eligibility | South African citizens with good academic records (minimum 55-60% average), enrolled in transport and logistics-related qualifications |
| Coverage | Tuition fees, study materials, and in some cases accommodation and stipends depending on programme level and sponsor company |
| Application Period | September through November annually |
| Industry Partners | Transnet, South African Airways (SAA), road freight companies, and maritime organizations |
| Practical Training | Includes experiential learning opportunities at ports, airports, rail facilities, and logistics centers |
| Employment Sectors | Shipping, aviation, rail operations, freight forwarding, warehouse management, and supply chain coordination |
| Website | www.teta.org.za |
Who Should Apply: Students interested in the movement of goods and people, particularly those drawn to aviation, shipping, or logistics careers in South Africa’s strategic transport corridors.
9. Services SETA (SSETA) Bursary
| Bursary Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus Areas | Hospitality Management, Tourism, Consumer Studies, Hairdressing, Beauty Therapy, Funeral Services, Sport Management, Gaming, and various service sector qualifications |
| Eligibility | South African citizens pursuing service sector qualifications at universities, universities of technology, or TVET colleges with demonstrated financial need |
| Coverage | Varies by programme level—typically covers tuition and study materials; may include accommodation and stipends for financially disadvantaged students |
| Application Deadline | Usually August through October for following academic year |
| Qualification Levels | Supports qualifications from National Certificate level through postgraduate diplomas in service industries |
| Industry Relevance | South Africa’s growing tourism and hospitality sectors create strong employment demand for qualified graduates |
| Practical Components | Programmes typically include workplace-based learning at hotels, resorts, tourism facilities, and service businesses |
| Website | www.serviceseta.org.za |
Who Should Apply: Students passionate about customer service, tourism, hospitality, or beauty industries.
Particularly suitable for those who enjoy working with people and creating memorable experiences.
10. Health and Welfare SETA (HWSETA) Bursary
| Bursary Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus Areas | Nursing, Pharmacy, Radiography, Emergency Medical Care, Dietetics, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, Speech and Hearing Therapy, Optometry, Environmental Health |
| Eligibility | South African citizens accepted into healthcare qualifications with minimum 60% average, particularly in Life Sciences and Mathematics/Mathematical Literacy |
| Coverage | Full or partial funding including tuition, accommodation, study materials, and stipends. Priority given to students from rural areas where healthcare workers are needed most |
| Application Period | Typically June through September annually |
| Community Service | Some programmes may require community service in public healthcare facilities after graduation, similar to compulsory community service for medical professionals |
| Critical Skills | Addresses severe shortages of healthcare workers in South African public health system, particularly in rural and underserved areas |
| Career Security | Healthcare qualifications provide excellent job security and opportunities for specialization and advancement |
| Website | www.hwseta.org.za |
Who Should Apply: Students committed to healthcare careers who want to make tangible differences in South African communities’ health outcomes.
Ideal for those with caring personalities and interest in medical sciences.
Corporate Bursaries with Employment Pathways
Corporate bursaries often provide the most comprehensive support packages, combining funding with mentorship, vacation work, and guaranteed employment considerations.
11. Sasol Bursary Programme
| Bursary Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus Areas | Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Chemistry, Computer Science, Information Technology |
| Eligibility | South African citizens with exceptional academic records (minimum 70% average), accepted at recognized universities for relevant qualifications |
| Coverage | Full tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks, laptop (in some cases), monthly allowance (approximately R4,000-R6,000), and vacation work remuneration |
| Application Period | Opens May, closes August annually |
| Vacation Work | Mandatory vacation work at Sasol facilities in Secunda, Sasolburg, or other locations, providing practical experience and professional networking |
| Employment Opportunity | Strong preference for permanent employment upon successful completion of studies and meeting performance expectations |
| Additional Support | Mentorship from experienced engineers, leadership development programmes, and exposure to cutting-edge chemical and energy technologies |
| Service Contract | Typically requires working for Sasol for a period equivalent to years of bursary support received |
| Website | www.sasol.com (careers/bursaries section) |
Who Should Apply: Top-performing STEM students interested in energy, chemicals, and engineering innovation.
Sasol offers exposure to world-class facilities and technologies.
12. Transnet Bursary Scheme
| Bursary Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus Areas | Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Logistics Management, Supply Chain Management, Financial Accounting, Information Technology |
| Eligibility | South African citizens with minimum 65% in Mathematics and Physical Science (for engineering), accepted at South African universities |
| Coverage | Full tuition fees, accommodation, prescribed textbooks, monthly allowance (approximately R3,500-R5,000), and travel costs for vacation work |
| Application Deadline | Opens June, typically closes September annually |
| Practical Training | Vacation work at Transnet Freight Rail, Transnet Port Terminals, Transnet Pipelines, or Transnet Engineering facilities across South Africa |
| Employment Pipeline | Successful graduates receive employment offers in South Africa’s largest freight logistics and ports operator |
| Career Diversity | Opportunities span rail engineering, port operations, pipeline infrastructure, and corporate support functions |
| Infrastructure Impact | Work on projects critical to South African economic development and continental connectivity |
| Website | www.transnet.net (careers section) |
Who Should Apply: Students interested in large-scale infrastructure, logistics, and engineering projects that directly impact economic development.
Transnet offers stability and diverse career progression opportunities.
13. Eskom Bursary Programme
| Bursary Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus Areas | Electrical Engineering (Power Systems emphasis), Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Science, Quantity Surveying |
| Eligibility | South African citizens with minimum 70% in Mathematics and Physical Science, accepted at specified universities for relevant programmes |
| Coverage | Comprehensive funding including tuition, residence fees, meals, textbooks, laptop/tablet, monthly stipend (R4,000-R7,000 depending on study level), and travel allowances |
| Application Period | Opens March, closes June annually for following year |
| Training Opportunities | Vacation work and in-service training at power stations, substations, and Eskom facilities nationwide, providing hands-on experience with power generation and distribution |
| Post-Graduate Employment | Employment contract upon successful completion, contributing to South Africa’s energy infrastructure and renewable energy transition |
| Specialization Areas | Power generation (coal, renewable), transmission, distribution, and emerging smart grid technologies |
| Long-term Benefits | Pension fund membership, medical aid, and comprehensive employee benefits package |
| Website | www.eskom.co.za (careers/bursaries) |
Who Should Apply: Engineering students passionate about energy, sustainability, and infrastructure who want to address South Africa’s power challenges while building a secure career.
14. Standard Bank Bursary Scheme
| Bursary Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus Areas | Chartered Accountancy (CA pathway), Actuarial Science, Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Science, Business Analytics, Financial Mathematics |
| Eligibility | South African citizens with outstanding academic achievements (minimum 75% average for CA; 70% for other fields), accepted at accredited institutions |
| Coverage | Full tuition, accommodation, prescribed textbooks, laptop/technology allowance, monthly stipend (approximately R5,000-R8,000), and professional exam fees for CA students |
| Application Period | Opens June, closes September annually |
| Professional Development | Mentorship from senior professionals, leadership programmes, vacation work in relevant divisions (audit, actuarial, IT, data science), and networking opportunities |
| Employment Track | Clear pathway to graduate programmes and permanent positions in banking, with support for professional qualifications (SAICA articles for CA students) |
| Career Advancement | Fast-track development programmes, rotation through different business units, and international exposure opportunities |
| Industry Standing | Work for Africa’s leading financial services group with operations across the continent |
| Website | www.standardbank.co.za (careers section) |
Who Should Apply: High-achieving students pursuing professional financial, actuarial, or technology qualifications who want careers in financial services with strong growth potential.
15. Anglo American Bursary Programme
| Bursary Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus Areas | Mining Engineering, Metallurgical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Geology, Surveying, Environmental Management |
| Eligibility | South African citizens and qualifying SADC nationals with excellent academic records (minimum 65% average, 70% preferred), studying at recognized South African universities |
| Coverage | Full tuition fees, accommodation, meals, prescribed textbooks, annual laptop/tablet allowance, monthly living allowance (R4,500-R6,500), and vacation work remuneration |
| Application Deadline | Opens April, closes July annually |
| Vacation Work | Exposure to Anglo American operations including platinum, coal, iron ore, and nickel mining operations, plus processing facilities |
| Sustainability Focus | Increasing emphasis on environmental management, renewable energy integration, and sustainable mining practices |
| Global Opportunities | Potential for international exposure through Anglo American’s global operations |
| Employment Commitment | Preference for employment upon graduation with competitive graduate programmes |
| Website | www.angloamerican.com (careers/student opportunities) |
Who Should Apply: Engineering and geoscience students interested in mining, particularly those concerned with sustainable resource extraction and modern mining technologies.
16. Old Mutual Bursary Scheme
| Bursary Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus Areas | Actuarial Science, Mathematics, Statistics, Risk Management, Investment Management, Financial Planning, Data Science |
| Eligibility | South African citizens with exceptional mathematics results (minimum 80% in Mathematics), accepted for relevant qualifications at accredited universities |
| Coverage | Full tuition, accommodation, prescribed textbooks, technology allowance, monthly stipend (R4,000-R7,000), and professional exam support (for actuarial students) |
| Application Period | Typically opens May, closes August annually |
| Professional Pathway | Support for actuarial qualification process including study leave for professional exams, study groups, and mentorship from qualified actuaries |
| Vacation Work | Rotations through actuarial, investment, product development, and risk management divisions |
| Career Development | Fast-track development programmes, exposure to life insurance, investments, asset management, and financial planning |
| Industry Recognition | Train with one of Africa’s largest financial services groups with 180+ years of heritage |
| Website | www.oldmutual.com (careers section) |
Who Should Apply: Mathematics-oriented students interested in actuarial science, risk assessment, and financial modeling with aspirations for professional actuarial qualification.
Professional Services and Audit Firm Bursaries
17. PwC Bursary Programme
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus Areas | Chartered Accountancy (CA(SA)), Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), IT Audit, Data Analytics, Tax Advisory |
| Eligibility | South African citizens with exceptional academic records (minimum 75% average overall; 70% in Accounting and Mathematics), accepted for BCom Accounting or related programmes |
| Coverage | Full tuition fees, prescribed textbooks, accommodation support, monthly allowance (approximately R3,500-R6,000), laptop/technology, SAICA exam fees, and articles training contract |
| Application Period | Opens March/April, closes July/August annually |
| SAICA Articles | Guaranteed training contract to complete articles (graduate training) toward CA(SA) qualification at PwC |
| Professional Development | World-class training, international secondment opportunities, exposure to major corporate clients across industries |
| Career Progression | Clear pathway from trainee accountant through to senior management and partnership opportunities |
| Work Environment | Professional services culture with emphasis on continuous learning, client service, and professional excellence |
| Global Network | Access to PwC’s global network spanning 150+ countries |
| Website | www.pwc.co.za (careers/students section) |
Who Should Apply: Top accounting students aiming for CA(SA) qualification who want comprehensive training with a Big Four firm and excellent long-term career prospects.
18. Deloitte Bursary Scheme
| Bursary Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus Areas | Chartered Accountancy, IT Audit, Forensic Accounting, Risk Advisory, Management Consulting, Tax Consulting |
| Eligibility | South African citizens with outstanding academic performance (minimum 70% average; 75% preferred), studying BCom Accounting or related qualifications |
| Coverage | Full tuition, accommodation subsidy, prescribed textbooks, laptop, monthly allowance (R3,000-R6,000), SAICA and other professional exam fees |
| Application Deadline | Generally opens April, closes August annually |
| Articles Contract | Three-year training contract upon graduation, fulfilling SAICA requirements for CA(SA) qualification |
| Service Lines | Exposure to audit, consulting, financial advisory, risk advisory, and tax practices |
| Innovation Focus | Increasing emphasis on technology, digital transformation, cybersecurity, and data analytics |
| International Opportunities | Potential secondments to Deloitte offices globally, particularly in Africa and emerging markets |
| Career Diversity | Flexibility to move between service lines and specialize in areas matching interests |
| Website | www.deloitte.com/za (careers section) |
Who Should Apply: Ambitious accounting students seeking CA(SA) qualification with interest in consulting, advisory work, and technology-driven professional services.
Foundation and NGO Bursaries
19. Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Bursary and Fellowship
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus Areas | Business, Commerce, Entrepreneurship, and qualifications leading to value-creation skills (Accounting, Finance, Economics, Engineering, Computer Science) |
| Eligibility | South African citizens demonstrating entrepreneurial potential, leadership qualities, and academic excellence (minimum 70% average). Grade 11 learners and first-year university students can apply |
| Coverage | Comprehensive funding including tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks, laptop, monthly allowance, and participation in leadership and entrepreneurship development programmes |
| Application Period | Opens February/March, closes April/May annually |
| Selection Process | Rigorous multi-stage process including written applications, online assessments, interviews, and assessment centers evaluating entrepreneurial thinking and leadership potential |
| Development Programmes | Annual conferences, mentorship from business leaders, entrepreneurship workshops, and networking with fellow scholars and alumni |
| Post-Study Fellowship | Three-year Fellowship after graduation providing continued mentorship, funding for entrepreneurial ventures, and a stipend while establishing careers or businesses |
| Long-term Impact | Focus on developing entrepreneurial leaders who create economic opportunities and employment in South Africa |
| Alumni Network | Access to successful entrepreneurs, business leaders, and change-makers across various industries |
| Website | www.allangrayorbis.org |
Who Should Apply: Entrepreneurially-minded students with leadership potential who aspire to create businesses, jobs, and economic value rather than solely pursuing employment.
20. Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarships
| Bursary Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Study Level | Postgraduate (Honours, Master’s, MBA) at South African universities |
| Eligibility | Candidates under 30 years old from African countries (with South African citizens forming significant portion) who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, entrepreneurial spirit, and commitment to reconciliation |
| Coverage | Full tuition fees, accommodation, living stipend, books and materials, research costs, conference attendance, and comprehensive leadership development |
| Application Period | Opens May/June, closes July/August annually for following academic year |
| Leadership Development | Intensive programmes including residential workshops, mentorship, public speaking training, ethical leadership seminars, and exposure to thought leaders |
| Selection Criteria | Four core values: Reconciliation, Education, Entrepreneurship, and Leadership. Selection process evaluates embodiment of these principles |
| Scholar Community | Join a network of 700+ scholars and alumni across Africa pursuing social change, business innovation, and leadership |
| Long-term Support | Continued mentorship, alumni gatherings, and support for career development and entrepreneurial ventures after completion |
| Interdisciplinary Focus | Brings together scholars from diverse fields creating cross-pollination of ideas and collaborative opportunities |
| Website | www.mandelarhodes.org |
Who Should Apply: Postgraduate students with established academic excellence and demonstrated commitment to African development, social justice, and ethical leadership.
How These NSFAS Alternative Bursaries Compare
| Bursary Category | Typical Coverage | Academic Requirements | Service Obligation | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Government (Funza Lushaka, ISFAP) | Full cost including living expenses | 60-70% average | Teaching commitment or income-based repayment | Financial need with career commitment |
| SETA Bursaries | Full to substantial coverage | 55-65% average | Sometimes required | Field-specific interest with moderate academics |
| Corporate Engineering | Comprehensive including technology | 65-75% average | Work-back usually required | High achievers wanting industry experience |
| Financial Services | Full cost plus professional exam support | 70-80% average | Articles/work contract | Professional qualification aspirants |
| Mining Companies | Full cost plus generous allowances | 65-70% average | Work-back preferred | Engineering/geoscience in mining |
| Foundations | Full cost plus leadership development | 70%+ average | No formal contract | Leadership and entrepreneurship focus |
How to Apply for Other Bursaries Like NSFAS
Securing alternative funding requires systematic preparation and attention to detail. Follow these steps to maximize your chances:
Research Available Opportunities
Start early—many bursary deadlines fall between July and November for the following academic year. Platforms like zabursaries.co.za aggregate current opportunities across sectors. Create a spreadsheet tracking:
- Bursary names and sponsoring organizations
- Eligibility requirements
- Coverage details
- Application deadlines
- Required documents
- Application methods (online portals, email, postal)
Prepare Essential Documents
Most bursaries require similar documentation. Gather these materials in advance:
- Certified copy of your South African identity document
- Proof of household income (parents’ payslips, bank statements, or sworn affidavits if unemployed)
- Academic records (matric certificate, university transcripts, academic records)
- Proof of university acceptance or current registration
- Proof of residence (utility bill or lease agreement)
- Recent passport-sized photographs
Keep both physical and digital copies organized in clearly labeled folders.
Complete Application Forms Accurately
Online application portals have become standard. When completing forms:
- Read all instructions completely before starting
- Fill in every required field—incomplete applications face automatic rejection
- Double-check spelling, especially for names and contact information
- Save progress frequently if the system allows
- Keep confirmation numbers or screenshots of submitted applications
Write Compelling Motivational Letters
Your motivational letter distinguishes you from other candidates with similar qualifications. An effective letter should:
Address Specific Requirements: Research the bursary’s mission and values. If applying to Funza Lushaka, emphasize your passion for teaching and commitment to public education. For corporate bursaries, demonstrate interest in that specific industry.
Demonstrate Financial Need Clearly: Explain your household’s financial circumstances honestly without exaggeration. Provide context—how many dependents, what challenges your family faces, why current resources cannot cover education costs.
Highlight Academic Achievements: Include specific accomplishments, awards, leadership positions, and extracurricular activities. Quantify achievements where possible (improved grades from 65% to 78%, led a team of 15 students).
Articulate Clear Goals: Explain your career aspirations and how the bursary enables them. Connect your chosen field to community needs or personal experiences that inspired your path.
Show Gratitude and Commitment: Express appreciation for the opportunity and commitment to making the most of the funding. For service-contract bursaries, affirm your willingness to fulfill work obligations.
Keep letters between 300-500 words unless otherwise specified. Proofread multiple times—typos and grammatical errors suggest carelessness.
Submit Applications Strategically
- Apply early: Don’t wait until deadlines approach. Systems may crash from high traffic, or you may discover missing documents
- Apply to multiple bursaries: The average student should submit 5-10 applications to maximize chances
- Keep records: Maintain copies of all submitted materials and confirmation receipts
- Follow up: If you haven’t received acknowledgment within two weeks, contact the bursary provider to confirm receipt
NSFAS Alternatives Frequently Asked Questions
What bursaries are available for students in South Africa besides NSFAS?
Major alternatives include ISFAP for missing-middle students, Funza Lushaka for future teachers, SETA bursaries for sector-specific skills, corporate programmes from companies like Sasol and Standard Bank, university-specific aid, and foundation bursaries like those from the Motsepe Foundation and SANZAF.
Can I apply for multiple bursaries simultaneously?
Yes, applying to several bursaries increases your funding chances and provides backup options. However, check individual bursary rules about accepting multiple awards—some full-cost bursaries prohibit combining funding, while partial bursaries may allow it.
How do I qualify for a bursary like NSFAS?
Eligibility varies significantly. Most bursaries assess financial need, academic performance, and field of study. Some target specific demographics (age limits, provincial residence, orphans). ISFAP requires household income between R350,000-R600,000, while Funza Lushaka requires commitment to teaching careers. Always review specific requirements before applying.
Do I need to submit a motivational letter for bursary applications?
Most bursaries require motivational letters as critical selection components. These letters allow you to explain circumstances, demonstrate passion for your field, and distinguish yourself from other candidates. Invest time crafting strong, personalized letters for each application.
What happens if my bursary application gets rejected?
Rejection from one bursary doesn’t eliminate other possibilities. Continue applying to other programmes—each has different selection criteria and priorities. Many students secure funding after multiple rejections. Request feedback if possible to improve future applications. Also verify whether you can reapply in the next cycle.
Is Funza Lushaka part of NSFAS?
No, Funza Lushaka operates independently as a Department of Basic Education programme, though it functions similarly to NSFAS by providing full-cost funding. Students can apply to both NSFAS and Funza Lushaka simultaneously.
Does NSFAS fund second qualifications?
NSFAS typically funds first undergraduate qualifications only. Students seeking second degrees should explore alternatives like ISFAP, corporate bursaries, or university-specific programmes that may consider postgraduate or second-qualification funding.
Can you have two bursaries simultaneously?
This depends on individual bursary terms and conditions. Full-cost bursaries typically prohibit accepting other full-cost awards to prevent double-funding. However, you might combine a partial tuition bursary with accommodation funding from another source. Always disclose other funding sources on applications and check specific rules.
What is the difference between a bursary and a loan?
Bursaries provide funding that doesn’t require repayment if you meet programme conditions (maintaining grades, fulfilling service contracts). Loans like those from Fundi must be repaid with interest regardless of academic performance. Some programmes like ISFAP use hybrid models where repayment obligations depend on income brackets.
How much is the monthly student allowance from bursaries?
Allowances vary significantly. Funza Lushaka provides stipends for teaching practice and basic living expenses. ISFAP and corporate bursaries typically offer more substantial monthly allowances, often ranging from R2,000 to R5,000 depending on programme and location. Check specific bursary documentation for exact amounts.