Top Bursaries Transforming Lives in South Africa
Education is the key to a brighter future, but for many South African students, financial limitations put a pause on their academic dreams.
But thankfully, South Africa is filled with a lot of charitable organizations that offer bursaries to support some of the country’s most intelligent but needy students.
Although universities are the most commonly funded levels, there are bursaries for students of all academic levels.
This article will provide you with a list of some of the top bursary providers who are changing lives year after year with their financial support.
Top Bursaries Transforming Lives in South Africa
There are many institutions that offer bursaries to deserving students. Here is a list of some of the most impactful ones.
- Ithuba Bursary Fund: This bursary, funded by the National Lottery operator ITHUBA, takes care of disadvantaged students from rocky backgrounds to pursue tertiary education in various fields. With a strong focus on STEM subjects, it prepares future leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
- Sasol Inzalo Foundation Bursary Programme: Sasol, a leading energy and chemicals company, invests in South Africa’s future through this bursary program. Supporting students in STEM fields related to Sasol’s operations, it trains them to be innovative and skilled professionals for the company’s continued success.
- National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS): This government-funded scheme provides financial support to academically deserving students by covering their tuition fees and living allowances.
- ABSA Bursary Programme: ABSA is an established financial institution that recognizes the importance of nurturing future leaders in the banking sector. Their bursary program supports students pursuing degrees in finance, accounting, and related fields.
- Mandela Rhodes Scholarship: This scholarship was established in honor of Nelson Mandela. It supports exceptional students from across Africa to pursue postgraduate studies at Oxford University. With a focus on social justice and leadership, it trains future changemakers to contribute meaningfully to the continent’s development.
Are there bursaries for foreigners in South Africa?
Bursaries mostly focus on supporting South African students, however, some opportunities also extend to international students.
Certain organizations, such as the Mandela Rhodes Scholarship mentioned above, cater to students from across Africa.
Some universities also offer bursaries or scholarships open to international applicants.
Which bursaries fund foreigners in South Africa?
My advice to foreign students looking for bursaries to apply for in South Africa is to keep researching.
Universities often have their own international scholarships or bursary programs, designed for specific regions or fields of study.
Organizations like the South African Commonwealth Scholarship and Fellowship Plan and the EducationUSA Fulbright Program also offer funding opportunities for international students to study in South Africa.