Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary 2026 Eligibility & How to Apply

Are you a South African student passionate about pursuing a career in Information Technology (IT)?

The Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary program might be the perfect opportunity to turn your dreams into reality.

About the Organisation

The Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa was established in 2021 under Cisco’s global CSR programme. 

It is administered in partnership with StudyTrust, aiming to develop future tech professionals and close the “digital divide” for “missing middle” students.

Fields of Study Funded

The bursary is available for full-time study in the following NQF 7-8 programmes:

• Computer Science
• Software Engineering
• Information Technology
• Computer Engineering

Benefits for Recipients

• Coverage of tuition fees, registration fees, and prescribed learning materials.
• Additional academic-related expenses as determined (possibly including books, accommodation or living allowance depending on need).

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must satisfy all of the following:

1. Be a South African citizen
2. Entering 1st to 4th year in 2026, including BTech (NQF Level 7) or Honours (NQF Level 8) students
3. Be accepted or registered at a public or private institution recognized by the Department of Education
4. Demonstrate strong academic performance
5. Be from a household with combined annual income between R350,000 and R600,000 (i.e. “missing middle”)
6. Preference is given to equity candidates (historically disadvantaged groups)

How to Apply

1. Applications are made online via the StudyTrust platform.
2. The application window is 1 May to 30 September 2025.
3. Upload required documents such as certified ID, Matric certificate or latest results, full academic record (if applicable), proof of registration or acceptance, and proof of household income.

Required Documents

You will need to provide:

1. Certified copy of your South African ID
2. Matric certificate or latest Matric results
3. Full academic record if you are already studying
4. Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognized tertiary institution
5. Proof of household income (e.g. payslips, affidavits, or bank statements)
6. Equity status documentation (if applicable)

Closing Date

All applications must be submitted by 30 September 2025. Late and/or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Contact Details

For enquiries, contact the administrator (StudyTrust):

• Phone: 011 403 1632
• Email: [email protected]