South Africa students who complete their undergraduate studies have a serious decision to make. Do I continue studying or do I look for employment? This is one of the most difficult decisions to make in a country with a high unemployment rate. Our economy is not growing at a desirable pace and jobs are skill scarce.
It is this reality that leads to many undergraduate students considering a postgraduate qualification. This article provides a list of bursaries and scholarships that fund postgraduate studies.
HONOURS BURSARIES FOR 2025
- Analyze Consulting Bursary
- Aon Bursary
- AWS Skills Development Bursary
- Council for Geoscience Bursary
- CSIR Bursary
- FirstRand Foundation Honours Bursary
- HCI Foundation Bursary
- Inscape Scholarship
- LGSETA Bursary
- Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship
- Mastercard Foundation Scholarship
- Mhlathuze Water Bursary
- MINDS Scholarship
- MiWay Bursary
- Potato Industry Development Trust Bursaries
- Royal Bafokeng Holdings & Liquid Intelligent Technologies Bursary
- SAAFoST Foundation Bursary (for Part-Time Students)
- SAMAC Bursary
- SANRAL Bursary
- Sasol Bursary
- South African Reserve Bank Scholarship
- Sibanye-Stillwater Bursary
- Tomorrow Trust Bursary
- Toyota Tsusho Africa Bursary
- Transport Education Training Authority (TETA) Bursary
The South African landscape boasts a diverse range of bursaries catering to different needs and backgrounds. Here’s a glimpse into some of the most common types:
- Government-funded bursaries: These are awarded by government organizations like the National Research Foundation (NRF) and the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET). They often prioritize specific research areas or disciplines aligned with national development goals.
- Private sector bursaries: Offered by companies and organizations, these bursaries often come with internship or employment opportunities upon graduation. They typically seek candidates who align with their values and contribute to their workforce pipeline.
- University-specific bursaries: Many universities offer their own bursaries to attract and retain talented students. These may be based on academic merit, financial need, or specific research interests.
- Non-profit organization bursaries: Various NGOs and foundations offer bursaries to support students from disadvantaged backgrounds or those pursuing careers in specific fields like social justice or environmental sustainability.
LIST OF POSTGRADUATE BURSARIES FOR 2024
HOW CAN STUDENTS SECURE POSTGRADUATE BURSARIES?
Navigating the bursary application process can seem overwhelming. Here are some helpful tips to guide your journey:
- Start early: Research and identify potential bursaries well in advance, as application deadlines often fall months before the start of your studies.
- Meet the eligibility criteria: Carefully review each bursary’s specific requirements, including academic qualifications, research interests, and financial need.
- Prepare a strong application: Craft a compelling cover letter highlighting your academic achievements, research experience, and future aspirations.
- Secure strong references: Seek reference letters from professors or mentors who can vouch for your academic abilities and potential.
- Showcase your leadership: Demonstrate your commitment to contributing to the development of your community or field through leadership roles or volunteer experiences.
- Network strategically: Build relationships with professionals in your field and attend relevant events to increase your exposure and gain valuable insights.
H3: Beyond the Bursary – Additional Resources to Support Your Journey
H3: A Journey of Transformation – Embrace the Opportunity
A postgraduate bursary can be the key that unlocks your full potential and sets you on a path towards a fulfilling career and impactful contribution to society. By starting your search early, preparing diligently, and utilizing available resources, you can turn your dream of postgraduate studies into a reality. Remember, the journey may be challenging, but the rewards are immeasurable. So, take the first step today, explore the diverse landscape of postgraduate bursaries in South Africa, and embark on a transformative journey of learning and growth.