Eastern Cape Department of Health Bursary Requirements and Online Application

The Eastern Cape Department of Health bursary supports students from the Eastern Cape province who wish to pursue tertiary qualifications in health-related fields. 

The programme is intended to strengthen the health workforce in the province and address critical skills shortages in sectors such as nursing, allied health, and medicine.

The bursary is offered by the Eastern Cape Department of Health to assist students who are residents of the Eastern Cape and who plan to study in fields needed by the department. 

It aims to build capacity for healthcare professionals in the province.

Which fields of study are eligible?

Eligible study fields vary each year based on the department’s service delivery needs. 

For past cycles the list has included nursing science, radiography, pharmacy, optometry, speech therapy, dental therapy, dentistry, occupational therapy and other clinical healthcare professions.

Candidates must check the latest advert to confirm the precise list of eligible qualifications for the 2026 intake.

Eastern Cape Department of Health Bursary Eligibility requirements

Typical eligibility criteria for the bursary include:

1. Be a South African citizen permanently residing in the Eastern Cape province.
2. Have passed Matric (National Senior Certificate) and/or be enrolled for full-time study at a recognised tertiary institution.
3. Intend to register or be registered for an eligible health-related qualification at a recognised South African higher education institution.
4. Demonstrate financial need and not already be receiving another full bursary from a similar government scheme.
5. Submit a fully completed application form with certified supporting documents by the closing date set in the bursary advert.

What does the bursary cover?

For the Eastern Cape bursary the following costs have been listed in recent years: tuition fees, registration fees, accommodation, meals, book allowances. 

The exact value and components of the 2026 award will be specified in the official bursary advert.

Eastern Cape Department of Health Bursary application 

Here is the general application process:

1. Obtain the official bursary application form from the Eastern Cape Department of Health website or visit your local district/provincial health office once the 2026 advert is published.
2. Complete the form and gather required supporting documents. These usually include certified copy of your ID, Matric results or certificate, proof of registration/admission at an accredited tertiary institution (if applicable), proof of residence, proof of parents/guardian income or an affidavit if income proof is unavailable.
3. Submit the completed application with all required attachments by the stated closing date. Late or incomplete applications are typically not considered.
4. After submission, monitor your application status as the department will notify successful applicants via contact details provided.

What the selection committee will consider

Selection will be based on:

1. Alignment of the applicant’s chosen field of study with the Department’s current critical skills needs.
2. Academic performance and potential to succeed in the chosen health-related qualification.
3. Proof of residence in the Eastern Cape, and demonstration of financial need.
4. Completeness and correctness of all documentation submitted.
5. Willingness to commit to working in the Eastern Cape health sector after qualification may also be a condition.

Eastern Cape Department of Health Bursary Closing Date

The closing date for Eastern Cape Department of Health bursary applications has previously been the end of October each year.

For the 2026 academic year applicants should check the official Eastern Cape Department of Health website or district offices for the exact closing date once the advert is published.

Applicants should submit early and ensure all documents are certified and included to avoid disqualification.