Sibona Ilanga Trust Bursary 2026: Full Funding for Your Studies
The Sibona Ilanga Trust is now accepting bursary applications for the 2026 academic year. If you live within 50 kilometres of the De Aar Solar Power Plant in the Northern Cape and dream of pursuing higher education, this opportunity could fully fund your journey.
The Trust is a community-based initiative that holds shares in the De Aar Solar Power Plant. Its goal is to empower local residents by helping them access quality education and training. To date, it has invested over R12.1 million in education, supporting 126 bursary recipients and committing another R2.5 million for the 2025/2026 year.
This bursary is managed by StudyTrust.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to those who are studying or plan to study at any recognised South African tertiary education or training institution. This includes:
- Public and private TVET colleges
- Universities of technology
- Academic universities
- Technical and skills training programmes (e.g., boilermaker, plumbing, fitter and turner)
Even if you have completed your NSC or NTC but are not currently studying, you are encouraged to apply.
Bursary Benefits
The bursary can include full coverage for:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Living expenses
- Study materials
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Sibona Ilanga Trust Bursary, you must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be under 35 years of age
- Live within a 50km radius of the De Aar Solar Power Plant
- Have a Matric certificate (NSC or NTC)
- Be accepted into a recognised tertiary education or training institution
Note: Matriculation is not required for skills training applicants.
Required Documents
Make sure to include the following in your application:
- Copy of your ID
- Proof of household income
- Proof of acceptance at a tertiary institution
- Proof of residence
How to Apply
You can scan the QR code on the flyer or visit any of the following websites:
For questions, contact: [email protected]
Important Deadline
Final Closing Date: 31 October 2025
No late submissions will be accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Sibona Ilanga Trust Bursary?
South African citizens under the age of 35 who live within a 50km radius of the De Aar Solar Plant and are accepted to a recognised public or private tertiary institution may apply.
What costs does the bursary cover?
The bursary can include full tuition fees, accommodation, study materials, and a living allowance, depending on the applicant’s need and budget availability.
Is there an age limit for applicants?
Yes, applicants must be younger than 35 years old at the time of application.
Can I apply if I’m not currently studying?
Yes. If you’ve completed your NSC or NTC and plan to study in 2026, you are eligible to apply as long as you meet all the other criteria.
Which institutions are accepted?
All recognised South African public and private universities, universities of technology, and TVET colleges are accepted.
How do I apply for the bursary?
Applications can be submitted through StudyTrust.org.za or sibonailangatrust.co.za. Ensure all supporting documents are uploaded before the closing date.
When is the closing date?
The final deadline for applications is 31 October 2025. No late applications will be accepted.
Can the bursary be renewed annually?
Yes, but students must reapply and show continued academic performance and financial need.
What if I already have another bursary?
You must disclose all other bursaries or financial aid in your application. Each case will be reviewed individually.
Where can I get help with the application?
You can contact StudyTrust via email at [email protected] for application assistance.
Bursaries Updates
🎓 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)