Blind SA Bursary 2026 Requirements & Application Guide

In South Africa, securing a bursary is a significant step towards achieving higher education.

For individuals with visual impairments, finding suitable bursary opportunities can be even more challenging.

Blind SA is a non-profit organization committed to empowering individuals with visual impairments through various services and programs. 

Their mission is to promote the inclusion and well-being of blind and visually impaired people in South African society. 

Blind SA provides a range of support services, including rehabilitation, education, employment, and advocacy.

About Blind SA Bursary

The Blind SA Bursary is a financial aid program aimed at assisting visually impaired students who demonstrate academic excellence and a strong commitment to their studies. 

The bursary covers a portion of the tuition fees and other educational expenses. 

It is open to students pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies at accredited South African universities or colleges.

Fields of Study Funded

Students may apply to pursue full-time or part-time tertiary qualifications at recognized South African universities or colleges, including undergraduate and postgraduate degrees.

Benefits for Recipients

• Provides financial support (e.g., R8 000 for full-time studies; R4 000 for part-time), depending on merit and funding availability.
• Supports students from first year through the postgraduate levels.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet all of the following:

1. Be a South African citizen.
2. Be blind or partially sighted, or a child of a parent with visual impairment, with the parent being a member of a Blind SA-affiliated organisation.
3. Have completed Matric or hold equivalent qualifications.
4. For first-time applicants: minimum 60% Matric average (excluding Life Orientation and second language).
5. For returning bursaries: must have passed the majority of courses in the previous year or semester.
6. Be enrolled or accepted into full-time or part-time tertiary studies at a recognized institution.

How to Apply

1. Download the Bursary Application Form from the Education section of Blind SA’s official site. Braille versions are available on request.
2. Complete the form whether you are a first-time or returning applicant.
3. Submit via:
   • Email: lindre@blindsa.org.za (use subject line “Blind SA Bursary 2026”)
   • Post: Blind SA, Private Bag X9005, Crown Mines, 2026

Required Documents

Attach certified copies of:

• South African ID document.
• Matric certificate or most recent exam results.
• Proof of registration (enrollment letter) or a full academic transcript.
• Eye condition certificate signed by an optometrist or ophthalmologist.

Closing Date

Blind SA bursary applications are typically open twice a year, with past closing dates falling on 1 February (first round) and 1 July (second round).

However, no official closing dates for 2026 have yet been published.

You must monitor Blind SA’s official site closely or contact their office for confirmation once 2026 deadlines are released.

Contact Details

For enquiries regarding the bursary programme:

• Contact Person: Lindre Playandi
• Email: lindre@blindsa.org.za
• Telephone: 011 839 1793 / 011 839 1794
• Postal Address: Blind SA, Private Bag X9005, CROWN MINES, 2026