4 Bursaries that will benefit your future

A bursary constitutes a financial award or grant extended to students to assist them in meeting the expenses associated with their education. Unlike loans, bursaries are not subject to repayment. These awards are typically allocated based on considerations of financial need, academic merit, or a combination of both criteria.

They encompass a range of costs, including tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and other study-related expenses. Bursaries may be sourced from government agencies, educational institutions, private organizations, corporations, or individual benefactors, and are instrumental in enhancing access to education for students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.

Here are some of the top bursaries in South Africa along with examples of their benefits:

The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship

The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship is a distinguished program in South Africa that aims to provide comprehensive support to high school and university students. The Fellowship offers full coverage of tuition and residence fees, thereby alleviating financial barriers to academic pursuits. In addition, fellows receive a monthly stipend to cover living expenses and incidental costs, facilitating their undivided focus on their studies.

Furthermore, fellows benefit from mentorship by seasoned professionals, receiving guidance and support throughout their academic journey. They also engage in leadership development initiatives tailored to cultivate their potential as future leaders. The Fellowship also facilitates access to networking events, enabling fellows to establish connections with like-minded individuals, alumni, and professionals from diverse sectors, broadening their perspectives and opening doors to future opportunities.

Overall, the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship is designed not only to provide financial support but also to nurture personal and professional growth, equipping fellows with the necessary skills and resources to excel academically and effect positive change within their communities.

South African Reserve Bank Bursary Scheme

The South African Reserve Bank Bursary Scheme presents an exceptional opportunity for academically proficient and financially disadvantaged individuals to pursue advanced education in fields vital to the nation’s economic and financial sectors. Through the provision of comprehensive financial aid and the facilitation of professional development, the SARB Bursary Scheme not only supports individual students but also contributes to the overarching objective of economic growth and stability in South Africa. Prospective candidates are advised to meticulously assess their eligibility against the specified criteria, meticulously prepare a robust application, and be willing to adhere to the conditions of the bursary in order to fully capitalize on this invaluable opportunity.

Nedbank Bursary Programme

The Nedbank Bursary Programme represents an initiative led by the esteemed Nedbank Group, a prominent financial institution in South Africa. The primary objective of this program is to uplift academically gifted yet financially disadvantaged students by offering comprehensive financial support. The bursary aims to facilitate students in their pursuit of higher education and the acquisition of skills in vital areas of study.

Old Mutual Education Trust Bursary

The Old Mutual Education Trust Bursary presents a significant opportunity for academically proficient and financially disadvantaged students to pursue higher education in South Africa. Providing comprehensive financial assistance and fostering personal and academic growth, the bursary empowers students to realize their educational aspirations and prepare for prosperous careers. Prospective candidates are advised to ensure compliance with the eligibility criteria, meticulously prepare a compelling application, and demonstrate readiness to adhere to the bursary’s conditions in order to fully leverage this invaluable opportunity.

Bursaries serve as a fundamental tool in facilitating access to education, fostering academic excellence, and driving economic development. They effectively diminish financial barriers, encourage diversity and inclusivity, bolster specific areas of study, and cultivate future leaders. Moreover, bursaries offer tangible benefits to educational institutions and yield positive social impacts by contributing to social equity and community development. Consequently, they represent a critical investment in the future, equipping individuals and propelling societal advancement. Through the endorsement of bursary programs, governments, institutions, and private organizations can substantially contribute to the establishment of a more educated, skilled, and equitable society.