A bursary is a financial award or grant provided to students to help them cover the costs of their education. Unlike loans, bursaries typically do not need to be repaid. Bursaries are often awarded based on financial need, academic merit, or a combination of both. They can cover various expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and other study-related costs. Bursaries can be offered by government agencies, educational institutions, private organizations, corporations, or individual donors, and they play a vital role in making education more accessible to students from diverse socio-economic backgrounds.

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

1. Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship:

The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship is a prestigious program in South Africa that offers comprehensive support to high school students and university students. Here are some of the benefits of the Fellowship:

1. Full tuition and residence fees: The Fellowship covers the costs of tuition and accommodation, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder academic pursuit.
2. Monthly stipend: Fellows receive a monthly stipend to cover living expenses and other incidental costs, allowing them to focus on their studies without financial worries.
3. Mentorship and leadership development opportunities: Fellows are paired with experienced mentors who provide guidance and support throughout their academic journey. Additionally, they participate in leadership development programs aimed at nurturing their potential as future leaders.
4. Access to networking events: Fellows have the opportunity to network with other like-minded individuals, alumni, and professionals in various fields, expanding their horizons and opening doors to future opportunities.

Overall, the Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship not only provides financial assistance but also fosters personal and professional growth, equipping Fellows with the skills and resources they need to succeed academically and make a positive impact in their communities.

2. South African Reserve Bank Bursary Scheme:

The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) Bursary Scheme is a prestigious program designed to support talented South African students pursuing studies in fields relevant to the banking sector. Here are some of the benefits of the SARB Bursary Scheme:

1. Full tuition and accommodation fees: The bursary covers the costs of tuition at accredited South African universities as well as accommodation expenses, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder academic pursuit.
2. Annual allowance for books and study materials: Bursary recipients receive an annual allowance to purchase books, study materials, and other resources necessary for their academic success.
3. Vacation work opportunities at the Reserve Bank: Bursary recipients have the opportunity to gain valuable work experience through vacation work placements at the South African Reserve Bank, allowing them to apply their academic knowledge in a real-world setting and build professional skills.
4. Mentorship and networking opportunities: Bursary recipients may have access to mentorship programs and networking events organized by the Reserve Bank, providing guidance and support as they progress through their studies and transition into the workforce.

Overall, the SARB Bursary Scheme not only provides financial assistance but also offers valuable opportunities for professional development and networking within the banking sector, preparing students for successful careers in finance and economics.

3. Nedbank Bursary Programme:

The Nedbank Bursary Programme is a comprehensive initiative aimed at supporting academically talented South African students in their pursuit of higher education. Here are some of the benefits of the Nedbank Bursary Programme:

1. Full tuition fees: The bursary covers the costs of tuition at accredited South African universities, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder academic achievement.
2. Accommodation allowance: Bursary recipients receive an allowance to assist with accommodation expenses, helping to alleviate the financial burden of living away from home during their studies.
3. Laptop and textbook allowance: Recipients may receive financial assistance to purchase essential study materials, including laptops and textbooks, facilitating their academic progress.
4. Vacation work opportunities at Nedbank: Bursary recipients have the opportunity to gain practical work experience through vacation work placements at Nedbank, allowing them to apply their academic knowledge in a professional setting and develop valuable skills for their future careers.
5. Mentorship and career development support: Bursary recipients may have access to mentorship programs and career development workshops, providing guidance and support as they navigate their academic and professional journeys.

Overall, the Nedbank Bursary Programme not only provides financial assistance but also offers valuable opportunities for practical experience, mentorship, and career development, empowering students to succeed academically and pursue rewarding careers in the banking and finance industry.

• Investec Bursary Programme:

The Investec Bursary Programme is an esteemed initiative aimed at empowering South African students to achieve their academic and career aspirations. Here are some key benefits of the Investec Bursary Programme:

1. Full tuition fees: The bursary covers the entirety of tuition fees at accredited South African universities, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder academic pursuits.
2. Accommodation and living expenses: Bursary recipients receive financial support to cover accommodation and living expenses, alleviating the burden of day-to-day costs associated with pursuing higher education.
3. Laptop and textbooks: Recipients may receive assistance in acquiring essential study materials such as laptops and textbooks, enabling them to fully engage in their academic studies.
4. Mentorship and networking opportunities: Bursary recipients are often paired with mentors who provide guidance and support throughout their academic journey. Additionally, they gain access to networking events and workshops, facilitating connections with professionals in their field of study.
5. Career development opportunities: Investec bursary recipients may have access to internships, vacation work placements, and other career development initiatives within the Investec Group, providing valuable hands-on experience and exposure to the corporate world.

Overall, the Investec Bursary Programme not only provides financial assistance but also offers a range of opportunities for personal, academic, and professional development, empowering students to excel in their chosen fields and make meaningful contributions to society.

5. Old Mutual Education Trust Bursary:

The Old Mutual Education Trust Bursary is a significant initiative aimed at supporting South African students in their pursuit of higher education. Here are some of the key benefits of the Old Mutual Education Trust Bursary:

1. Full tuition fees: The bursary covers the cost of tuition fees at accredited South African universities, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder academic success.
2. Accommodation and meals: Bursary recipients receive financial support to cover accommodation expenses and meal allowances, alleviating the burden of living away from home during their studies.
3. Textbook allowance: Recipients may receive financial assistance to purchase essential textbooks and study materials, enabling them to fully engage with their academic coursework.
4. Access to career development workshops and seminars: Bursary recipients have the opportunity to participate in career development workshops and seminars, gaining valuable insights and skills to enhance their employability upon graduation.
5. Networking opportunities: The Old Mutual Education Trust Bursary often provides networking opportunities with professionals within the Old Mutual Group and beyond, allowing students to expand their professional networks and explore potential career paths.

Overall, the Old Mutual Education Trust Bursary not only provides financial assistance but also offers valuable support and resources to help students succeed academically and prepare for their future careers.

6. NSFAS

The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) is a government-funded program in South Africa aimed at providing financial assistance to eligible students who are unable to afford the cost of tertiary education. Here are some key points about NSFAS:

1. Bursaries and loans: NSFAS offers a combination of bursaries and loans to eligible students, covering tuition fees, accommodation, and other study-related expenses.
2. Eligibility criteria: Eligibility for NSFAS funding is based on various factors, including household income, academic performance, and citizenship status. Students from low-income households are prioritized for assistance.
3. Application process: Students must apply for NSFAS funding through the online application portal, providing relevant financial and academic information. The application period usually opens well in advance of the academic year to allow for timely processing.
4. Repayment: While NSFAS provides funding as a bursary for some students, others receive it as a loan. Loan recipients are required to repay the loan amount under favorable terms after completing their studies and securing employment.
5. Support services: NSFAS also offers support services to students, including counseling, academic support, and career guidance, to ensure their holistic well-being and success in their studies.

Overall, NSFAS plays a crucial role in expanding access to higher education for students from disadvantaged backgrounds in South Africa, helping to create opportunities for socio-economic empowerment and development.