WeThinkCode_ NPC

WeThinkCode_ is a South African non-profit coding academy that offers a tuition-free, two-year software development programme to young people with aptitude but no coding background. WeThinkCode_ aims to unlock untapped technology talent, and selects students through an aptitude-based process rather than academic qualifications, according to a provider record checked in August 2026.

Registered name

WeThinkCode_ NPC

Type

Non-profit tech academy (software development)

Fields funded

Two-year software development programme (no degree or coding experience required)

Website

apply.wethinkcode.co.za

Not a bursary in the usual sense

WeThinkCode_ does not pay for study at a university. Instead, WeThinkCode_ is itself the place of study: students attend its campuses in Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban for two years at no cost, receive a monthly stipend of about R2 000 for food and transport, and learn software development through projects and peer learning. For many applicants it is a faster, cheaper route into technology than a degree.

Funded by the companies that hire

WeThinkCode_’s model relies on corporate partners, such as banks, insurers and technology companies, which fund the programme and take students for work placements. Graduates earn an NQF level 5 qualification and complete a paid one-year work placement, and WeThinkCode_ reports that about 91% of graduates are in permanent jobs. South African companies struggle to hire enough developers, so partners gain access to trained talent while students gain experience.

A different kind of selection

WeThinkCode_ does not ask for Matric marks in Mathematics or a university acceptance. Applicants complete an online application and a logical reasoning and aptitude test, then attend a selection bootcamp where they solve problems alone and in teams, and finally an interview. The bootcamp tests persistence, teamwork and the ability to learn quickly, qualities that matter in real software jobs.

Who can apply

Applicants must be aged 17 to 35 and hold a valid South African ID, or a passport with a work permit, or asylum or permanent residence documents covering the full programme. Applicants must be able to study full-time for two years and must not be employed or studying elsewhere. No coding experience or degree is required. Applications for the 2027 intake close on 30 November 2026.

How to research WeThinkCode_

Try free online logic puzzles and beginner programming exercises to prepare for the aptitude test and bootcamp, and speak to current students if you can. Consider whether you can live on the stipend for two years, and whether the campus is within reach.

Students who prefer a degree can see our software engineering bursaries list.