- IS THE SAGE BURSARY OPEN FOR 2027?
- WHAT FIELDS OF STUDY DOES THE SAGE BURSARY COVER?
- WHAT ARE THE SAGE BURSARY REQUIREMENTS?
- WHAT DOES THE SAGE BURSARY COVER?
- DOES THE SAGE BURSARY COVER OUTSTANDING FEES?
- HOW MUCH IS THE SAGE BURSARY MONTHLY ALLOWANCE?
- DOES THE SAGE BURSARY COVER POSTGRADUATE STUDIES?
- HOW DO I APPLY FOR THE SAGE BURSARY ONLINE?
- WHAT DOCUMENTS ARE REQUIRED AND WHEN IS THE SAGE BURSARY CLOSING DATE?
- HOW CAN I CONTACT THE SAGE BURSARY PROVIDER?
🟢 OPEN — Sage Bursary applications for the 2027 academic year are currently open and close on 30 September 2026.
Looking for the Sage Bursary 2027, Sage Bursary requirements, online application, monthly allowance or closing date? The Sage External Bursary provides financial support to eligible South African students studying at recognised public universities, with a particular focus on Accounting, Finance, Computer Science, Computer Engineering and Information Technology.
The programme also makes special provision for students with disabilities. Eligible students with disabilities may apply for undergraduate or postgraduate studies in any field of study.
For the 2027 academic year, applications are administered through StudyTrust and are open from 1 June to 30 September 2026. The bursary can cover several study-related expenses, including tuition, accommodation, stationery, books, an allowance and a laptop, subject to the applicable funding cap.
Sage Bursary: At a Glance
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary provider | Sage South Africa |
| Programme | Sage External Bursary |
| Academic year | 2027 |
| Status | Open |
| Opening date | 1 June 2026 |
| Closing date | 30 September 2026 |
| Study level | Undergraduate; postgraduate for students with disabilities |
| Eligible fields | Accounting and Finance, Computer Engineering, Computer Science and Information Technology |
| Students with disabilities | Undergraduate and postgraduate studies in all fields |
| Institution | Recognised and accredited public higher education institution in South Africa |
| Matric academic requirement | 75% or above in Mathematics and Physical Science |
| University academic requirement | 65% or above consistently |
| Household income | R350,000 to R600,000 per year, subject to the programme criteria |
| Application method | Online through StudyTrust |
Is the Sage Bursary Open for 2027?
Yes. The Sage Bursary is currently open for applications for the 2027 academic year.
The Sage External Bursary application season for 2027 opened on 1 June 2026 and the closing date is 30 September 2026.
Applications are administered by StudyTrust, which manages the online application process for the Sage External Bursary. Applicants should therefore use the current StudyTrust application platform rather than relying on an old Sage Bursary application form or previous-year application link.
Current status: 🟢 Open
Academic year: 2027
Closing date: 30 September 2026
Application method: Online
If you intend to apply, it is advisable to submit your application well before the closing date because StudyTrust warns that its application platform can become busy as deadlines approach.
What Fields of Study Does the Sage Bursary Cover?
For the 2027 academic year, the Sage External Bursary supports undergraduate degree studies in selected fields related to technology, computing, accounting and finance.
- Accounting and Finance — including BCom studies specialising in Accounting and Finance
- Computer Engineering
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
Students with disabilities receive broader field-of-study eligibility. They may apply for undergraduate or postgraduate degrees in any field of study, subject to the other applicable requirements.
This distinction is important if you are searching for the Sage Bursary 2027 because a qualification outside Accounting, Finance, Computer Engineering, Computer Science or Information Technology is not automatically eligible under the standard undergraduate route.
Related: Computer Science and IT Bursaries South Africa — explore other bursary opportunities in technology-related fields.
What Are the Sage Bursary Requirements?
Applicants must meet the relevant eligibility criteria before applying. The main Sage Bursary requirements for 2027 include the following:
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You must be a previously disadvantaged individual (PDI).
- You must have applied for and been admitted to a recognised public higher education institution in South Africa.
- You must be studying or intending to study towards an eligible qualification for the 2027 academic year.
- For the standard undergraduate route, your qualification must fall within the fields supported by Sage.
- Your household income must fall within the programme’s stated income range.
- If you are a current Matric learner, you must have achieved at least 75% in Mathematics and Physical Science.
- If you are already at university, you must have consistently achieved an overall average of at least 65%.
- Students with disabilities may qualify for the expanded field-of-study and postgraduate provisions.
The household-income requirement is particularly important. StudyTrust currently states that the applicant’s family income should be between R350,000 and R600,000 per annum. Applicants below this range may also be considered where they have applied for NSFAS but were not awarded a DHET-funded bursary.
Because StudyTrust administers several different bursaries, applicants should make sure that the information entered on the application accurately reflects their own financial, academic and study circumstances.
What Does the Sage Bursary Cover?
The Sage External Bursary provides financial assistance towards several costs associated with tertiary study. The funding is capped, meaning applicants should not assume that every expense will be paid without limit.
- Tuition fees
- Residence accommodation
- Private accommodation
- Stationery
- Books
- An allowance
- A laptop
The funding arrangement can also take account of existing student financial obligations, including current fees and historical study debt, subject to the applicable funding limits and assessment.
This makes the Sage Bursary particularly relevant to students searching for information about Sage Bursary outstanding fees or whether the programme can help students who already have university debt.
Does the Sage Bursary Cover Outstanding Fees?
Yes. The Sage External Bursary can cover current fees and historical study debt, subject to the applicable funding cap and the bursary’s assessment criteria.
This is one of the more useful features of the programme for students who are already at university and have accumulated outstanding study fees.
However, the existence of this provision should not be interpreted as an unlimited promise to settle every amount owed to a university. The Sage Bursary is a capped funding programme, and applicants must still meet the relevant eligibility and selection criteria.
If outstanding fees are preventing you from continuing with your studies, make sure that your application accurately reflects your current academic and financial circumstances and provide the required supporting information.
How Much Is the Sage Bursary Monthly Allowance?
The Sage External Bursary includes an allowance among its possible benefits, but the current StudyTrust information does not publish a universal monthly rand amount for every recipient.
The value of the bursary should therefore be understood as a package of approved study-related costs rather than a guaranteed monthly cash payment of a particular amount.
If Sage or StudyTrust provides a revised allowance amount for a specific 2027 intake, applicants should rely on the latest official information provided during the application or award process.
Does the Sage Bursary Cover Postgraduate Studies?
Postgraduate study is eligible under the Sage Bursary for students with disabilities.
The standard Sage External Bursary is primarily aimed at undergraduate degree studies in Accounting and Finance, Computer Engineering, Computer Science and Information Technology.
Students with disabilities receive a broader opportunity. They may apply for undergraduate and postgraduate degrees in all fields of study, subject to the applicable selection and academic criteria.
Therefore, if you are searching specifically for a Sage Bursary postgraduate opportunity, you should not assume that any postgraduate qualification qualifies simply because it is offered by a public university. The expanded postgraduate provision is specifically linked to students with disabilities.
What Marks Do You Need for the Sage Bursary?
The academic requirement depends on whether you are currently in Matric or already studying at university.
Current Matric Learners
Current Grade 12 learners must have achieved at least:
- 75% for Mathematics
- 75% for Physical Science
The requirement refers to Mathematics and Physical Science, so applicants should not assume that Mathematical Literacy can be substituted for Mathematics unless the current bursary administrator specifically confirms otherwise.
Current University Students
Students already studying at university are required to have consistently achieved an overall average of at least 65%.
Students with disabilities may be assessed under a lower academic threshold, provided the result is not below the expected institutional pass rate.
Does the Sage Bursary Have a Work-Back Obligation?
The current Sage External Bursary information does not state a standard work-back obligation requiring every successful recipient to work for Sage after completing their qualification.
This is important because some South African corporate bursaries are recruitment bursaries that include employment or service obligations. StudyTrust distinguishes between ordinary bursaries and recruitment bursaries, but the current Sage External Bursary information does not identify a compulsory Sage employment period for recipients.
Applicants should nevertheless read any bursary agreement or award documentation supplied to them before accepting funding, because the conditions attached to an individual award are the final authority.
How Do I Apply for the Sage Bursary Online?
The Sage Bursary 2027 online application is completed through the StudyTrust online application platform.
StudyTrust manages the application process for the Sage External Bursary. Applicants should therefore follow the current application route provided on StudyTrust’s bursary application platform.
Official application platform: StudyTrust Bursary Applications
Before beginning your application, prepare your academic, identification and household-income documents. StudyTrust states that applicants cannot submit until the required information has been completed and supporting documents have been uploaded.
The application process also includes essay questions. These responses form part of your personal application profile and may be used when sponsors assess applicants.
What About the Sage Bursary Motivation Form?
If you are searching for a Sage Bursary Motivation Form, be careful when using old application forms found online.
The current application is completed online through StudyTrust, and StudyTrust states that the application includes essay questions that allow applicants to tell their story and provide information about themselves. These responses form part of the applicant’s profile presented to potential sponsors.
StudyTrust also instructs applicants to write their essays themselves. You may use tools to check spelling or grammar, but your answers should represent your own story, experience and reasons for applying.
Therefore, do not rely on an old PDF labelled “Sage Bursary Motivation Form” unless the current application instructions specifically direct you to use it.
What Documents Are Required and When Is the Sage Bursary Closing Date?
Applicants should prepare their supporting documents before starting the online application. The documents required may depend on your personal circumstances, but the current StudyTrust application requirements include the following:
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Full academic record with your most recent results
- Matric/NSC results, if you have completed Grade 12
- Grade 11 final results and your latest Grade 12 report, if you are currently in Matric
- Proof of household income for parents or legal guardians where applicable
- Recent payslips for employed parents or guardians
- Affidavit confirming unemployment or self-employment income, where applicable
- Business financial documents or recent bank statements where a parent or guardian owns a business
- SASSA documentation where applicable
- Death certificate where a parent or guardian is deceased
- Court documentation or an affidavit relating to child support where applicable
- Proof of disability, where applicable
- A recent head-and-shoulders photograph
Not every applicant will need every document listed above. For example, proof of disability only applies to applicants seeking consideration under the disability provision, while documents relating to deceased parents or child support apply only where relevant.
Sage Bursary Closing Date 2027
The Sage Bursary 2027 closing date is 30 September 2026.
The application season opened on 1 June 2026. Applications submitted after the closing date will not be accepted, so eligible students should avoid waiting until the final day.
StudyTrust also advises applicants to apply early because its online platform may become busy as application deadlines approach.
Closing date: 30 September 2026.
How Can I Contact the Sage Bursary Provider?
The Sage External Bursary is administered by StudyTrust. Applicants with questions about the application should therefore contact StudyTrust rather than attempting to use an old Sage Bursary contact number or form.
StudyTrust bursary enquiries:
Telephone: 011 403 1632
Email: apply@studytrust.org.za
StudyTrust also states that its bursaries are never for sale and that applications are managed directly through its own platform. Applicants should be cautious of anyone asking for payment in exchange for a bursary application or claiming to act as an intermediary.
Who Is Sage?
Sage is a global business software company known for accounting, payroll and payment solutions. Its software and services are used by businesses to manage financial and administrative processes.
The Sage External Bursary forms part of the company’s support for skills development and empowerment, with a particular focus on previously disadvantaged youth and young people living with disabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Sage Bursary
Is the Sage Bursary open for 2027?
Yes. The Sage External Bursary is open for the 2027 academic year. Applications opened on 1 June 2026 and close on 30 September 2026.
What is the Sage Bursary closing date?
The Sage Bursary 2027 closing date is 30 September 2026.
What does the Sage Bursary cover?
The bursary can cover capped costs including tuition, residence or private accommodation, stationery, books, an allowance and a laptop. It can also cover current fees and historical study debt, subject to the applicable funding limits.
Does the Sage Bursary cover outstanding student fees?
Yes. The current Sage External Bursary information states that the fund can cover current fees and historical study debt, subject to the applicable funding cap and selection criteria.
How much is the Sage Bursary monthly allowance?
The Sage Bursary includes an allowance, but the current StudyTrust information does not state a universal monthly rand amount. The bursary is also subject to a funding cap.
Can postgraduate students apply for the Sage Bursary?
Yes, but the postgraduate provision applies to students with disabilities. Students with disabilities may apply for undergraduate or postgraduate studies in any field.
What are the Sage Bursary requirements?
Applicants must generally be South African citizens and previously disadvantaged individuals, have applied for and been admitted to a public higher education institution, meet the relevant household-income criteria and satisfy the academic and field-of-study requirements. Current Matric learners need at least 75% in Mathematics and Physical Science, while current university students need a consistent average of at least 65%.
What can I study with the Sage Bursary?
The standard undergraduate programme covers Accounting and Finance, Computer Engineering, Computer Science and Information Technology. Students with disabilities may apply for undergraduate or postgraduate studies in any field.
How do I apply for the Sage Bursary 2027?
Applications are submitted online through the StudyTrust bursary application platform. Applicants must complete the required information and upload the necessary supporting documents before submitting the application.
Is there a Sage Bursary motivation form?
The current StudyTrust application includes essay questions that form part of the applicant’s profile. Applicants should not rely on an old standalone motivation form unless the current application instructions specifically require one.
Does the Sage Bursary require students to work for Sage after graduation?
The current Sage External Bursary information does not state a standard work-back obligation requiring recipients to work for Sage after graduation. Applicants should nevertheless read the terms of any bursary award or agreement they receive.
Apply for the Sage Bursary 2027
The Sage Bursary is currently open for the 2027 academic year.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, prepare your academic, identification and household-income documents and complete the StudyTrust online application before 30 September 2026.
Official application: StudyTrust Bursary Applications
Bursary administrator: StudyTrust
Telephone: 011 403 1632
Email: apply@studytrust.org.za
Always confirm the latest Sage Bursary requirements and application instructions on the current StudyTrust platform before submitting your application.
Related Bursaries on Grads24
- Computer Science and IT Bursaries South Africa — find more funding opportunities for technology-related studies.
- Accounting Bursaries South Africa — explore bursaries for Accounting and Finance students.
- Bursaries Currently Open — see other bursaries with active application windows.
Grads24 monitors bursary opportunities and updates application information as new funding cycles are announced. Always verify the final requirements and application instructions with the bursary provider or bursary administrator.