African Scholars Fund High School Bursary 2026 – Aid for Grades 8–12 Learners in the Cape and Eastern Cape

The African Scholars Fund typically opens its annual High School Bursary for learners entering Grades 8 or 9 and closes on 15 September 2025 for the 2026 academic year. 

This programme supports over 2,000 deserving students, and missing the deadline means missing your chance.

About African Scholars Fund

The African Scholars Fund (ASF) is a South African non-profit established during the apartheid era. 

Its mission is to help academically capable, financially disadvantaged learners in the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, and Northern Cape access quality high school education.

ASF also offers mentorship, academic support, and regular progress monitoring.

Fields of Study Funded

ASF Bursaries support high school learners enrolled in Grades 8 through 12 at selected partner schools across the Western, Eastern, and Northern Cape. 

Funding applies to tuition, school fees, uniforms, stationery, and transport.

Benefits for Recipients

Each scholar receives R1,000 per year. These funds are paid to the school, typically in two installments, to cover school fees, uniforms, stationery, and transport. 

ASF monitors scholar progress twice yearly and provides support as needed.

Eligibility Criteria 

You must meet all of the following:

• Be a South African citizen, aged 21 or younger in your matric year
  
• Be enrolled in or entering Grade 8 or Grade 9 in 2026
  
• Attend an ASF-supported high school in Western, Eastern, or Northern Cape
  
• Maintain an average of at least 50% (or 60% in Grade 7 for Grade 8 entry)
  
• Come from a household earning no more than R10,000 per month; school fees must not exceed R4,500 per year
  
• Demonstrate initiative, responsibility, and academic promise
  Students must not receive funding from other bursaries without ASF approval.

How to Apply

1. Download the ASF High School Bursary application form from asf.org.za or collect it from your high school.
   
2. Complete the form in full.
   
3. When asked “Where did you hear about bursaries?”, enter “www.bursariesafrica.co.za.”
   
4. Gather all required documents (see next section).
   
5. Submit your application by post to:

African Scholars Fund  

P.O. Box 18097  

Wynberg  

Cape Town, 7824

South Africa

Submit before 15 September 2025.

Required Documents

Include certified or clear copies of:

• South African ID (or birth certificate if under 18)
  
• Latest school report or academic transcript
  
• Proof of household income (payslips, grant letter, or affidavit)
  
• A handwritten letter by the student describing their background and goals
  
• A stamped addressed envelope for ASF feedback (not sealed)
  Applications missing any item may be disqualified.

Closing Date

The application deadline is 15 September 2025 at 17:00 SAST. Late or incomplete submissions are not accepted.

Contact Details

For all queries and assistance, contact the African Scholars Fund directly:

• Phone: 021 689 9094
• Email: [email protected]