Monday, 14 July 2025

 

Top Bursaries Still Open in 2025 for South African Students (No Matter Where You Live)

Didn’t get a bursary at the beginning of the year? You’re not alone, and you’re not out of options. Many South African bursaries re-open mid-year, and others accept late or rolling applications.

Whether you're in matric, upgrading your results, or already at varsity and struggling with fees these 2025 bursaries could be your second chance.

This guide is built for students in townships, rural areas, and anyone who feels like they’ve been left behind. Let’s level up.

 

 Why These Bursaries Matter

Too many talented youth in townships like Orange Farm, Vaal, and Khayelitsha miss out on funding just because they didn’t have the right info at the right time. This blog exists to change that.

Each bursary below is:

·        Still open (as of July 2025)

·        Covers tuition, some cover books & living costs

·        Open to Grade 12 learners, TVET students, and university students

·        Accepts applicants from anywhere in SA not just big cities

1. NSFAS (Late Appeals & Applications for 2025)

·         Status: Appeals and TVET rolling intake still open

·         Covers: Tuition, transport, accommodation, meals, books

·        Tip: If you’ve been rejected or had issues, appeal ASAP using the NSFAS portal

·        Apply or appeal here

 

 2. FUNZA LUSHAKA (Teaching Bursary)

·         Status: Open for late applications for 2025–2026

·         Field: Teaching (especially subjects like Maths, Science, Languages, Tech)

·        Covers: Full tuition, accommodation, food, books + a living allowance

·        Apply here

 

3. Thuthuka Bursary (SAICA – Accounting & Finance Students)

·        Status: Late intake available for 2025 for select universities

·        Field: Chartered Accountancy

·        Prioritises: African/Coloured students from rural or township schools

·         More info

 

 4. Sasol Foundation Bursary

·         Status: Open until August 31, 2025

·         Fields: Engineering, Science, Technology, Accounting

·        Targeted at: High-performing learners from disadvantaged backgrounds

·         Apply here

 

 5. Vodacom Bursary Programme

·         Status: Applications close September 2025

·         Field: Computer Science, IT, Engineering, Data Science

·         Ideal for: Matriculants with strong Maths & Science marks

·         Apply here

 

 6. Shoprite Bursary (Retail, Accounting, Logistics)

·        Status: Open all year – rolling intake

·         Fields: Retail Management, Supply Chain, Finance, Pharmacy

·         Covers: Full tuition + job opportunities after graduation

·         Apply here

 

7. Old Mutual Accounting & Actuarial Bursary

·        Status: Late intake for 2025 depending on institution

·        Fields: Accounting, Actuarial Science

·         Requirements: 70%+ in Maths and English

·         Apply here

 

How to Boost Your Chances?

 Write a strong motivational letter speak your truth
 Include certified results (latest report if you’re in matric)
 Check spelling and upload documents clearly
 Don’t wait for closing dates apply today
 If you're unsure, email them and ask (it shows initiative)

 

 Bonus Tip: Use These Tools

·         GoStudy.co.za – updated SA bursary listings

·        WhatsApp groups & Facebook pages often share hidden bursary gems

·        Draft your cover letter once, then tweak it per bursary

·        Save PDF copies of your documents on your phone or flash drive


Final Word

Don’t let deadlines or doubt steal your dream. These bursaries are not just for top schools or suburbs. They are for you, too.

Someone from a shack in Soweto, a one-room in Vaal, or a rural school in Limpopo can and should apply and win.

You’ve got talent. Now you’ve got the info. Apply.

 

Questions or Need Help?

Drop a comment or email, and I’ll help where I can. Kasi students deserve the same access as anyone else.

 

 

 

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