SAMSTIP Teacher Intern Bursary South Africa 2025

The Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa (ISASA) is a non-profit organization representing over 800 schools across South Africa and neighboring countries.

Committed to quality education, ISASA established the Southern African Mathematics and Science Teacher Intern Programme (SAMSTIP) in partnership with Investec Bank and the Department of Basic Education.

SAMSTIP aims to tackle the critical shortage of qualified math and science teachers in South Africa, nurturing a pipeline of passionate educators who will positively impact public schools.

About the SAMSTIP Teacher Intern Bursary

The SAMSTIP Teacher Intern Bursary offers financial support to South African students pursuing a Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) or a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed.) specializing in Mathematics and Science (Physical Science, Life Science, or Natural Science) through the University of South Africa (UNISA).

UNISA’s open distance learning format allows students to pursue their studies flexibly.

Beyond covering your UNISA tuition fees and prescribed textbooks, the SAMSTIP bursary provides a valuable support package:

  1. Monthly stipend: Aids with living expenses while you study.
  2. Transport and accommodation allowance: Helps manage logistical costs.
  3. Training at ISASA member schools: Gain valuable practical experience in a supportive environment.
  4. Teaching and learning resources: Provides the tools you need for effective teaching.
  5. Mentorship from qualified school teachers: Benefit from the guidance of experienced educators.
  6. Academic enrichment program: Strengthens your academic foundation.

After completing your studies, bursary recipients are required to teach at a public school in South Africa for a period equal to the duration of their bursary funding.

SAMSTIP Teacher Intern Bursary Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the SAMSTIP Teacher Intern Bursary, you must meet the following requirements:

  1. Be a South African citizen.
  2. Be under 30 years old.
  3. Aim to specialize in Mathematics and Science (Physical Science, Life Science, or Natural Science) through a PGCE or B.Ed. (Senior and FET phase only) at UNISA.
  4. Plan to study at UNISA through open distance learning in the 2024 academic year (applications typically open in the previous year).
  5. B.Ed. applicants: Currently in Matric or have completed Matric.
  6. PGCE applicants: Hold a relevant undergraduate qualification.
  7. Have passed Mathematics and either Life Science, Physical Science, or Natural Science in your schooling (Mathematical Literacy does not qualify).
  8. Be willing to be placed at a public school (Professional Development Host School) anywhere in South Africa.

SAMSTIP Teacher Intern Bursary Application Requirements

Applications for the SAMSTIP bursary are submitted online through the ISASA website.

You will need to create an account before applying.

The required supporting documents are:

  1. Certified copy of your South African ID document.
  2. Certified copy of your Matric certificate.
  3. Full academic transcript on official tertiary institution letterhead.
  4. Certificate of degree or diploma (if applicable).

How to Apply

When applications open for the 2026 intake, you can follow these steps:

  1. Visit the ISASA website and register for an account.
  2. Locate the SAMSTIP Teacher Intern Bursary application page.
  3. Carefully read through the eligibility criteria and application instructions.
  4. Complete the online application form accurately.
  5. Ensure you upload clear copies of all required supporting documents.
  6. Submit your application electronically before the closing date.

How to Contact

For any inquiries related to the SAMSTIP bursary program, please contact ISASA directly: [email protected].