The For Coloured Girls Bursary Foundation is a non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering female learners from historically under-resourced “coloured” communities in South Africa by providing academic, psychosocial and financial support.

The bursary and development programme covers girls at high-school level (Grade 8-12) and early-tertiary (1st and 2nd year) who are from disadvantaged backgrounds and show academic potential.

Eligibility requirements for the For Coloured Girls Bursary

To be eligible, applicants must satisfy the following criteria:

  1. Must identify as female and live in a “coloured” community in South Africa and come from a disadvantaged or destitute background.
  2. For high-school stream: Learners entering Grade 8 to Grade 12.
  3. For tertiary stream: Learners entering 1st or 2nd year of higher education.
  4. Must have a demonstrated passion for learning and willingness to further studies.
  5. Preference is given to students who:
    • Have achieved a minimum overall average of about 65% or a “6” level in academic ratings.
    • Are interested in studies in Language and STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields.
    • Are preparing for scarce-skills disciplines (as identified by the Department of Higher Education and Training).

Application process for the For Coloured Girls Bursary

  1. Visit the official website of the For Coloured Girls Bursary Foundation and download the application form.
  2. Complete the form and submit required documentation including certified copy of latest academic results, proof of community status, identity documentation and maybe a motivational essay.
  3. Applications for the current (2025) cycle closed on 31 January 2025.
  4. For the 2026 cycle you should monitor the website as the next window opens in the final quarter of the year.

Closing date for the For Coloured Girls Bursary

The publicly published closing date for the 2025 cycle was 31 January 2025.

For the 2026 application period the deadline has not yet been published.

Applicants should check the Foundation’s website in the final quarter of the year for updates.

Contact details for the For Coloured Girls Bursary

FAQs

1
Who is eligible to apply for the For Coloured Girls Bursary?
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Which fields of study are prioritised?
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How do I apply for the bursary?
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What is the closing date?
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Where can I get help or contact the foundation?
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Does the bursary provide mentoring and development as well?
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Is this bursary only for high-school students?
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What are the minimum academic requirements?
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Are students from disadvantaged communities given preference?
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What if I’m already in 3rd year or more at university?

🎓 Download Our Bursary Application Checklist

Download our free Application Checklist to make sure you do not miss any required documents. Submitting a complete application is key to being shortlisted.

📥 Download Checklist (PDF)