GCRA Bursary Requirements, Application and Closing Dates

The Gauteng City-Region Academy (GCRA) bursary is run by the Gauteng Provincial Government through the Gauteng Department of Education. 

Its purpose is to nurture talent in Gauteng through tertiary-study funding, internships, and career guidance.

This bursary supports both undergraduate and postgraduate students and aims to create a pipeline of skilled professionals for the Gauteng City-Region.

GCRA Bursary Eligibility Requirements

To apply for the GCRA Bursary, you generally need to meet the following criteria:

1. Be a South African citizen.
2. Be between 18 and 35 years old.
3. Reside in Gauteng Province.
4. Have completed Matric in Gauteng (or equivalent).
5. Be accepted for, or already registered in, a full-time undergraduate or postgraduate qualification at a recognized institution in South Africa.
6. Provide proof of financial need (household income documentation).

There are different bursary categories:

1. Top Achiever — for top-performing learners.
2. Top 3 Non-Fee Paying Schools — for the top three learners from Gauteng no-fee schools.
3. LSEN — for learners from special education (LSEN) schools.
4. Financial Assistance — if you don’t fall into the above but have financial need.
5. Renewal or Reinstatement — for students who already had GCRA funding and are continuing or want to resume.

What the Bursary Covers

The GCRA bursary is generous and covers:

1. Tuition fees.
2. Registration fees.
3. Accommodation: up to R65,000 for on-campus residence; up to R47,000 for off-campus/private accommodation.
4. Books and study materials.
5. Laptop allowance.
6. Living allowance for students living off-campus.

GCRA Bursary Application Process

Here’s how to apply for the GCRA bursary:

1. Register and create a profile on the GCRA bursary portal.
2. Fill in personal and academic details: upload your ID, Matric certificate, proof of registration or acceptance at a tertiary institution, proof of Gauteng address, and more.
3. Select the bursary category (Top Achiever, Financial Assistance, etc.) in your application.
4. Upload supporting documents: certified ID, academic results, parents/guardians’ income proof, motivation letter, and if applicable, a disability/medical report.
5. Submit your application before the closing date. After submission, you’ll receive a reference number via SMS to confirm.
6. Shortlisting & assessment: Applications are assessed by a panel, and shortlisted candidates may have to interview or complete additional steps.

GCRA Bursary Closing Date

For the 2026 cycle, the closing date for applications is 28 February, 2026.

GCRA Bursary Contact Details

If you have questions or need help, you can reach GCRA at:

• Email (new applications): gdeinfo@gauteng.gov.za
• Renewals / Reinstatements: Bursaries.Gcra@gauteng.gov.za
• Phone: 0800 000 789 or 011 355 0000 

FAQs