Education is a powerful tool for personal and national where to study development, and bursaries play a crucial role in making education accessible to all. In South Africa, numerous organizations offer bursaries to support students in their pursuit of higher education. Here, we highlight some of the top bursaries available in 2024, aimed at unlocking the future for many young South Africans.

1. National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)

The NSFAS is one of the largest bursary providers in South Africa, aimed at helping students from disadvantaged backgrounds. It covers tuition fees, accommodation, transport, and study materials. The scheme targets undergraduate students at public universities and TVET colleges. To qualify, students must come from households with an income below a certain threshold and demonstrate academic potential.

2. Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship

The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation offers a prestigious fellowship to students with entrepreneurial potential. This bursary covers full tuition, accommodation, meals, books, and a monthly stipend. Beyond financial support, it includes mentorship and development programs to nurture leadership and entrepreneurial skills. The fellowship is open to first-year students at selected South African universities.

3. Funza Lushaka Bursary

For students aspiring to become teachers, the Funza Lushaka Bursary is an excellent opportunity. This bursary covers all aspects of tuition, accommodation, and living expenses for students pursuing a teaching degree. Recipients are required to teach at a public school for the same number of years they received the bursary, thus contributing to the education sector in South Africa.

4. Sasol Bursary Scheme

Sasol, a leading energy and chemical company, offers bursaries to students in engineering, science, and commerce fields. The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, meals, and a monthly allowance. Sasol also provides vacation work opportunities and potential employment after graduation. This scheme is ideal for students who are academically strong and have a keen interest in the specified fields.

5. Investec Bursary

Investec offers bursaries to students studying towards degrees in commerce, engineering, and information technology. The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks, and a stipend. In addition to financial support, Investec provides bursars with opportunities for mentorship, leadership development, and work experience within the company.

6. Shoprite Bursary

Shoprite, Africa’s largest food retailer, provides bursaries to students in various fields, including pharmacy, retail management, supply chain management, logistics, and information technology. The bursary covers tuition fees and, in some cases, offers work experience and employment opportunities within the Shoprite Group.

7. Old Mutual Education Trust Bursary

This bursary is available to dependents of Old Mutual employees. It covers tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks, and a stipend. The bursary aims to support students in various fields of study, ensuring they have the financial means to complete their education and pursue their career goals.

8. ABSA Bursary

ABSA offers bursaries to students in fields such as commerce, science, engineering, and technology. The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks, and a monthly stipend. ABSA also provides bursars with mentorship, leadership training, and the possibility of employment within the company upon graduation.

9. Nedbank Bursary

Nedbank provides bursaries to students pursuing degrees in commerce, science, engineering, and technology. The bursary covers full tuition, accommodation, meals, textbooks, and a monthly allowance. Nedbank offers bursars vacation work and potential employment opportunities, along with mentorship and personal development programs.

10. Anglo American Bursary

Anglo American offers bursaries to students in the fields of engineering, geology, and environmental sciences. The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, meals, and a stipend. Bursars also receive practical work experience, mentorship, and the potential for employment within the company.

How to Apply for Bursaries

Applying for bursaries involves a few key steps:

1. Research: Identify bursaries that align with your field of study and career goals.
2. Meet Eligibility Criteria: Ensure you meet the academic and financial criteria for each bursary.
3. Prepare Documentation: Gather necessary documents such as academic transcripts, proof of income, and personal statements.
4. Submit Applications: Complete and submit applications before the specified deadlines.
5. Follow Up: Keep track of your applications and follow up if necessary.

Conclusion

Bursaries are a gateway to higher education and a brighter future. By taking advantage of these opportunities, students can alleviate financial burdens and focus on their studies. For 2024, South Africa offers a diverse range of bursaries to support students across various fields, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder academic and professional aspirations. Unlock your future by exploring these bursary opportunities and taking the first step towards achieving your dreams.