What is the income threshold for most undergraduate bursaries in South Africa?

Income thresholds vary by programme. NSFAS uses a combined household income threshold of R350,000 per year. Many corporate bursaries use R250,000 to R400,000 as their upper limit for means-tested funding. Some bursaries — particularly those from professional services firms targeting top academic performers — have no income threshold and assess purely on merit and potential. Always declare your household income accurately and provide supporting documents (latest tax return or payslip) — misrepresentation is grounds for immediate cancellation.

When do 2026 undergraduate bursary applications open and close?

Most major corporate bursaries open applications between March and July 2025 for the 2026 academic year, with closing dates typically falling between August and October 2025. Government departmental bursaries tend to open later — September to November 2025. Some funders, particularly mining companies and large banks, open their applications as early as February. Missing a deadline means waiting a full year. Set calendar reminders now and check each funder's website directly rather than relying solely on third-party listings, as dates can change.

Can I hold more than one bursary at the same time?

It depends on the terms of each bursary. Some funders explicitly prohibit recipients from holding other bursaries simultaneously — particularly corporate bursaries with work-back agreements, where the company expects exclusive commitment. Others allow it provided you declare all funding sources. NSFAS, for example, may reduce your allocation if you receive other funding. Always disclose all bursaries you hold or are applying for — failing to do so is considered fraud and can result in full repayment demands and blacklisting.

What documents do I need for a typical undergraduate bursary application?

Most applications require: a certified copy of your South African ID, your matric certificate or latest school report, proof of university acceptance or current student registration, proof of household income (latest payslip, SARS tax return, or affidavit if unemployed), and a motivational letter. Some also request an academic CV, proof of community involvement, and reference letters. Prepare certified copies of all documents before applications open — many students lose out simply because they are not ready when a good bursary opens.

What should my motivational letter include to stand out?

A strong motivational letter for an undergraduate bursary should do four things: explain your financial situation honestly and specifically (avoid vague statements), describe your academic strengths with examples, connect your chosen field of study to a clear career goal, and reference the specific company or organisation you are applying to — not a generic template. Avoid clichés like 'I want to give back to my community' without specifics. One paragraph about a real experience that shaped your career choice is worth more than three paragraphs of generic ambition.

UndergraduateA collection of 36 posts

Undergraduate bursaries fund your first degree — whether that is a three-year BCom, a four-year BEng, or a six-year MBChB. In South Africa, this is where the majority of available bursary funding is concentrated, because most funders (both corporate and government) want to invest in students at the earliest point in their career pipeline.

Eligibility requirements at undergraduate level typically include a matric certificate with specific subject passes (mathematics and physical science are required for most STEM bursaries), a household income below a defined threshold, and South African citizenship or permanent residency. Academic performance benchmarks vary — corporate bursaries often require a 65–70% matric average, while some government bursaries focus more on financial need than academic results.