The Industrial Development Corporation of South Africa (IDC) is committed to empowering the country through skills development, education, and employment creation. Through its bursary programme, the IDC supports high-achieving students who are passionate about building South Africa’s future in key sectors like engineering, business, agriculture, and technology.
If you are a dedicated student with strong academic performance and financial need, this opportunity could help you unlock your full potential.
About IDC Bursary Programme 2026
The IDC Bursary Programme forms part of the corporation’s broader human capital development initiatives. The goal is to close South Africa’s critical skills gap while nurturing a new generation of industry leaders.
The IDC Bursary Programme 2026 covers full tuition, accommodation, study materials, and a stipend, making it an excellent opportunity for academically strong students who need financial assistance.
Who Should Apply?
Age Criteria
- You must be between 16 and 26 years old.
- You must be a South African citizen.
Matriculants
- Must have a minimum average of 75% in Grade 11 final and/or Matric June results.
Tertiary Students
- Must have a minimum average of 65% in their latest results.
- Must be registered or provisionally accepted at a South African tertiary institution.
Fields of Study Covered
IDC Bursary Programme 2026 supports qualifications in priority sectors linked to South Africa’s industrial development goals:
- Engineering Bursaries
(e.g. Mechanical, Electrical, Civil, Mechatronics) - Business and Economics Bursaries
Focused on business strategy, management, entrepreneurship, and economic analysis. - Agricultural Science Bursaries
Including sustainable farming, agribusiness, and food security. - Computer Science and IT Bursaries
Covering software development, data science, AI, cybersecurity, and more.
How to Apply IDC Bursary Programme 2026
Applications must be submitted online via the official portal:
👉 Apply Here: IDC Bursary Application Portal
⚠️ Make sure to complete the application in full and upload all required supporting documents.
📎 Required Documents
Prepare certified copies (not older than 6 months) of the following:
- Applicant’s ID document
- Grade 11 final and Matric June results (if currently in Matric)
- Matric certificate (if completed)
- Latest academic transcript (if already in tertiary)
- 2025 mid-year results (if currently studying)
- Proof of acceptance or provisional admission at a tertiary institution
- Parents/guardians’ ID documents
- Unabridged birth certificate (if surnames differ)
- Proof of household income, depending on circumstances:
- Payslips (if employed)
- Affidavit + 6 months bank statements (if unemployed)
- 3 months bank statements (if self-employed)
- SASSA letter (if applicable)
- Death or divorce certificate (if applicable)
- Sworn statement (if separated)
Closing Date
🗓️ Closing Date: 30 September 2025
We recommend submitting your application well before the deadline to avoid last-minute issues.
🗂️ Helpful Resources
- Tips for Writing a Bursary Motivational Letter
- NSFAS and Other Financial Aid Options
- More Engineering Bursaries
- University Bursaries
- Undergraduate Bursaries
