Are you a Matriculant and you are considering furthering your studies next year? Matric Bursaries make it possible for students doing grade 12 to secure funding for their tertiary studies while in Matric. Start with your application process much earlier to eliminate competition.
Many organisations that offer Matric Bursaries rely on several factors to assess your eligibility for funding. One of those factors is your academic performance. When you submit your funding application, you must provide your medium-term results. These, together with your financial status, are used to decide whether you are a suitable candidate.
Matric Bursaries 2026 – What You Need To Know
If you are still doing Grade 12 or have already completed Matric, your bursary application is assessed based on your academic achievement. Bursary providers tend to lean more towards Matric applicants for various reasons. One of the reasons they do so is that you are starting a new journey towards shaping your career. The second one is that you are still flexible when it comes to the selection of your field of study.
The best time to start browsing through bursaries and other funding options is around May of each year. This is because many bursary providers are starting to publish their bursary programmes for the following academic year.
National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)
The NSFAS is a South African government funding scheme that provides financial aid to academically deserving students who cannot afford tertiary education. It assists students who intend to further their studies at:
- TVET colleges,
- Universities of Technology
- Universities
Studies must be undertaken in any institution of higher learning within the borders of South Africa.
Eligibility Criteria
- Good academic performance
- Proven financial need (based on household income)
You must be a student with good academic results, but with financial need, to qualify for NSFAS. The additional requirement is your combined household annual income margin. Learn how to apply for NSFAS here.
Funza Lushaka Bursary for Matric
If you are in Matric or possess a Matric certificate and you are passionate about becoming a teacher, this bursary is for you. The Funza Lushaka Bursary offers funding for the following:
- Bachelor of Education (BEd)
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE).
In additional to the requirements for the Funza Lushaka bursary, studies must be undertaken in a South African public university. Find out how to apply for the Funza Lushaka Bursary.
Matric Bursaries 2026: Documents Needed To Apply
Always remember to prepare the following documents before you start applying for bursaries:
- A certified copy of your ID (green book or smart card)
- Latest matric reports
- Motivation letter (read our guide on how to write a bursary motivational letter)
- Proof of household income
Conclusion
Securing a bursary to pay for your tertiary education while you are still in Matric can be a challenging exercise. But it is worth the effort because it can open doors to a bright academic future.
Remember to apply early, maintain strong academic performance, and meet the application requirements for each bursary programme you choose.