The Motsepe Foundation has announced its bursary programme for the 2027 academic year, aimed at supporting South African learners preparing for tertiary education. This bursary provides full financial assistance to students pursuing targeted fields including Science, Technology, Engineering, Accounting, Mathematics, Music, and the LLB degree within Humanities.
About the Motsepe Foundation Bursary Programme
This bursary programme is designed to assist academically strong students who demonstrate financial need, allowing them to continue their studies without the burden of tuition and related expenses. It covers a comprehensive range of costs including registration, tuition fees, university-approved accommodation, books, stationery, a laptop, meal allowances, tutoring, and mental wellness support.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must be South African students intending to start tertiary education in 2027. Key eligibility criteria include:
- Academic Performance: An average above 70% calculated without including Life Orientation and Home Language results.
- Financial Need: Evidence of household financial status through income documentation is mandatory.
- Field of Study: Only certain academic disciplines are supported, specifically in Science, Technology, Engineering, Accounting, Mathematics, Music, and LLB (Law).
- Geographical Eligibility: Applicants must come from supported districts and municipalities across South Africa, including areas in Limpopo, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga, North West, Gauteng, Western Cape, and Northern Cape.
Main Requirements
Applicants need to prepare the following documents for submission:
- Certified copies of their own ID and those of their parents or legal guardians
- Certified copy of the latest academic results or transcript
- Proof of household income for parents or guardians
- A testimonial letter from a school principal, religious leader, or traditional leader
It’s important to ensure that all documents are clear and certified, and that the testimonial letter honestly represents the applicant’s circumstances.
What Does the Bursary Cover?
- Registration and full tuition fees
- University-accredited accommodation fees
- Books and stationery supplies
- A laptop to assist with studies
- Meal allowance
- Tutor allowance to support academic progress
- Mental wellness support services
Location and Fields of Study
The bursary targets students from specific regions within South Africa and supports a select group of academic fields:
- Science: Including disciplines like chemistry, physics, and biological sciences.
- Technology: Areas covering ICT and related technology fields.
- Engineering: Various branches such as civil, mechanical, electrical, chemical, industrial, mining, electronic, and computer engineering.
- Accounting: Finance-related fields including auditing, taxation, and management accounting.
- Mathematics: Work linked to statistics, actuarial science, data analysis, and quantitative research.
- Humanities: Specifically Music and LLB law degrees, with a note that LLB is the supported law qualification.
Closing Date
The deadline for submitting bursary applications is 16 October 2026. Applicants should start preparing documentation well in advance to avoid missing this date.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official Motsepe Foundation bursary portal. Applicants are advised to thoroughly review the application criteria and gather required documents before starting the application process.
Access the application platform here: Apply through the official Motsepe Foundation Bursary page
Important Notes Before Applying
- Ensure your chosen qualification is supported by the bursary before applying.
- The bursary offers extensive support beyond tuition fees, including accommodation and wellness resources.
- Applying for this bursary does not replace the need to apply separately for university admission.
- Applicants should also consider other funding options such as NSFAS or relevant SETA bursaries as part of their education funding plan.
