Science bursaries are sought after by many South African students who want to fund studies in this fields. It is one of the most important fields of study, forming the foundation for innovation, technology, and research across many industries. Bursaries in this field range from medicine and agriculture to engineering and environmental studies, the impact of science is seen in almost every sector of society.
Students who are passionate about a career in science can browse bursaries, scholarships, and funding opportunities discussed in this article. These bursaries are offered by government departments, private companies, universities, NGOs, and industry organisations with the aim of:
- Supporting the development of young scientists
- Addressing critical skills shortages in South Africa
- Ensuring sustainability in industries such as agriculture, mining, energy, healthcare, and technology
- Providing equal opportunities for deserving students, especially those from previously disadvantaged backgrounds
CATEGORIES OF SCIENCE BURSARIES
Below is a detailed list of bursary categories available to South African students pursuing studies in various branches of science. Please note that some bursaries may already be closed for 2025, but will reopen for the 2026 academic year. Always check the closing date and requirements on each bursary’s dedicated page.
- Aviation, Air Traffic and Pilot Training
- Actuarial Science
- Agriculture and Agricultural-related Studies
- Analytical Chemistry and General Chemistry
- Animal Science
- Anthropology and Archaeology
- Biology and Biological Sciences
- Biomedical Sciences
- Botany and Plant Studies
- Earth Science and Earth Observation
- Econometrics
- Environmental Science
- Farming and Agricultural Practices
- Food Science and Food Technology
- Forestry
- Genetics
- General Science
- Geography and Geographic Studies
- Geo-related Studies (Geomatics, Geohydrology, Geochemistry, Geo-informatics)
- Geology
- Grain and Crop Studies
- Horticulture
- Hydrology and Water Resources
- Marine Biology, Oceanography and Maritime Studies
- Mathematics (Applied Mathematics, Business Mathematics, Financial Mathematics, Mathematical Statistics)
- Material Science
- Microbiology
- Natural Sciences
- Physics
- Soil Science
- Statistics and Data Science
- Technology and Applied Sciences
- Veterinary Science and Animal Health
- Water, Waste and Sanitation Management
- Weather, Meteorology and Climate Studies
- Zoology, Entomology and Nematology
AVIATION, AIR TRAFFIC BURSARIES
- ATNS Bursary
- TETA Bursary
ACTUARIAL SCIENCE BURSARIES
- Absa Bursary
- Capitec Bursary