High School Bursaries in South Africa 2025: How to Apply, Eligibility, and Top Opportunities

Education opens doors, but for many South African learners, the cost of attending a quality high school is a significant barrier. , this is especially true for students from low-income households or under-resourced communities. Fortunately, numerous bursary programs across South Africa offer financial support to promising high school learners who show academic potential.

This guide explains high school bursaries, who qualifies for them, and how to apply. It also highlights some of the best opportunities available in 2025.

What Is a High School Bursary?

A high school bursary is a form of financial aid provided to learners who cannot afford school fees and other related expenses. Bursaries are typically awarded based on financial need, academic performance, or both. Some programs also prioritize learners with specific subject interests, such as science, mathematics, or technology.

Private companies, government departments, nonprofit foundations, or even schools may offer these bursaries. They can cover various costs, including tuition, uniforms, transport, textbooks, and boarding.

How to Qualify for a High School Bursary

To qualify for a bursary, learners must meet specific criteria, which vary by provider. Generally, you need to demonstrate eligibility in the following areas:

  • Academic Performance: Strong results in core subjects like Mathematics, Science, and English are often required.
  • Financial Need: Most bursaries require proof that your household income falls below a specific threshold.
  • Grade Level: Some bursaries are only available for learners in specific grades—typically between Grade 8 and Grade 12.
  • Background: Preference may be given to learners from rural areas, townships, or historically disadvantaged communities.
  • Career Aspirations: Certain bursaries support learners with clear goals in medicine, engineering, or teaching.

The Application Process

Applying for a bursary usually involves submitting several documents. These commonly include:

  • A completed bursary application form
  • Certified copies of recent school reports
  • A certified copy of your birth certificate or ID
  • Proof of household income (e.g., parent’s payslip or grant letter)
  • A motivational letter explaining your needs and goals
  • Recommendation letters from a teacher, school principal, or community leader

Keep digital copies of these documents in a dedicated folder; This will help you apply for multiple bursaries quickly.

Make Your Application Stand Out

Thousands of learners apply for bursaries yearly, so make sure your application is complete and compelling. In your motivational letter, clearly describe your background, academic ambitions, and how the bursary would help you succeed. Ask a teacher, parent, or friend to proofread your application before submitting it.

How to Apply for High School Bursaries in 2025

Follow these steps to maximize your chances:

  1. Start Early – Begin searching for bursaries by mid-year. Many applications open around July and close before the end of the year.
  2. Do Your Research – Find bursaries that align with your goals and situation. Some are open to new high school entrants, while others support enrolled learners.
  3. Prepare Your Documents – Gather everything beforehand to avoid rushing near the deadline.
  4. Submit Correctly – Follow the instructions on each application carefully. Some must be submitted online, while others require posting or emailing.
  5. Track Your Applications—Keep a list of where and when you applied. If possible, follow up to confirm that your application was received.

Top High School Bursaries in South Africa for 2025

Here are some of the most reputable bursaries available this year:

Merit-Based Bursaries

  • Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Scholarship
  • Offers comprehensive support to learners with strong academic records, leadership potential, and entrepreneurial mindsets.
  • Spirit Education Foundation Scholarship
  • Supports learners from under-resourced backgrounds who demonstrate academic success and strong personal values.
  • Ekapa High School Scholarship
  • Designed for top-performing learners, particularly those interested in science and technology.

Needs-Based Bursaries

  • SAILI High School Scholarship
  • Helps academically capable learners from low-income families gain access to high-performing schools.
  • SANRAL High School Bursary
  • Supports learners who show interest in engineering or related fields. The program places a strong emphasis on financial need.
  • Capitec High School Bursary
  • Provides one year of financial support to deserving Grades 10 through 12 learners.

Subject-Focused Bursaries

  • Kay Mason Foundation Scholarship (KMF)
  • It aims to support aspiring medical professionals through funding, mentorship, and life skills development.
  • Investec High School Bursary
  • Focuses on learners with academic strengths and career interests in finance, mathematics, and technology.
  • AISCT IT Scholarship
  • Supports learners passionate about information technology, coding, and robotics.

International Study Opportunities

  • McMaster University Undergraduate Scholarships (Canada)
  • While not a high school bursary, these scholarships fully support South African learners pursuing undergraduate studies abroad.
  • Agnes Scott College $100K Promise (USA)
  • Offers full tuition to South African girls applying to study in the United States.
  • Queen Elizabeth Commonwealth Scholarships
  • Although targeted at postgraduates, this program is worth noting for long-term academic planning.

Where to Find Bursary Opportunities

  • Visit bursariesafrica.co.za for regular updates and direct application links.
  • Follow Facebook groups and pages that focus on bursary announcements.
  • Ask your school principal or life orientation teacher to alert you when new opportunities arise.
  • Check the websites of major banks, mining companies, and government departments—they often offer high school bursaries.

Don’t delay. Many learners miss opportunities because they start late or submit incomplete applications. Apply to several bursaries to increase your chances of success. And remember: if you don’t get selected this year, try again next year. New opportunities are constantly emerging.

Bursaries offer more than just money—they provide access, support, and a path toward a brighter future. With determination and the proper support, you can attend a top school, reach your full potential, and build the life you envision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Most bursaries require good academic results and proof of financial need. Some focus on learners from rural areas or those interested in specific subjects like science or medicine.

Yes, applying for multiple bursaries increases your chances. Just make sure you meet each bursary’s requirements and submit unique applications for each one.

Yes, some bursaries like the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation support learners entering Grade 8. Always check the specific grade requirements before applying.

Many full bursaries cover school fees, boarding, uniforms, textbooks, and sometimes transport. Partial bursaries may only cover tuition.

Most bursaries open mid-year, around June or July, and close by October or November. Start researching early and mark deadlines on your calendar.

You can visit bursariesafrica.co.za, follow educational Facebook pages, or check websites of banks, government departments, and non-profits that offer bursaries.

Explain your background, challenges you face, your goals, and why the bursary will help you succeed. Be honest and show passion for your education.

No. Most bursaries require school reports or transcripts to assess academic performance. Ask your school for certified copies if you do not have them.

Some bursary programmes include interviews as part of their selection process. If selected, be prepared to speak about your achievements and goals.

Do not give up. Apply again next year or look for other options. There are many bursaries available, and new ones are introduced every year.