If you’re still looking for funding to kick‑start your studies in 2026, this is the last chance you’ll have this year. A handful of top South African bursaries will close before 28 February 2026, and missing the deadline could mean another year of waiting. Thapelo madibeng Bursary offers a quick, reliable way to start planning your applications now.
Why Bursaries Matter Right Now
With tuition costs rising and competition for places high, a bursary can change the whole shape of your academic journey. Full fee coverage, accommodation and book allowances, and monthly stipends free you to focus on learning rather than on a part‑time job.
Who Should Apply?
All of the bursaries below target bright South African students from various fields. Each has its own eligibility rules, so check them carefully. The common thread is that they are all open to eligible applicants for the 2026 academic year and many of them focus on skills gaps in engineering, science, finance, and research.
Top Bursaries to Submit Before 28 February 2026
1. Armscor Bursaries 2026
The Armaments Corporation of South Africa (Armscor) partners with the defence industry to award bursaries. If you’re a student with a strong science or engineering background and a passion for defence technology, this is the right programme for you.
2. SAAFoST Aubrey Parsons Study Grant 2026
The South African Association for Food Science and Technology (SAAFoST) invites postgraduate students to apply for the Aubrey Parsons Study Grant, supporting research and study in food science.
3. Poliomyelitis Research Foundation (PRF) Bursaries 2026
The Poliomyelitis Research Foundation (PRF) offers bursaries to students who wish to pursue research in public health, with a focus on poliomyelitis and related diseases.
4. Two Rivers Platinum Mine Bursaries 2026
Two Rivers Platinum Mine (TRP) invites South African students enrolled at DHET‑accredited institutions to apply. These bursaries support STEM and mining‑related fields.
5. Gauteng City Region Academy (GCRA) Bursaries 2026
The Gauteng City Region Academy (GCRA) offers financial assistance to eligible youth across the region, especially in high‑impact sectors such as engineering and ICT.
6. FASSET Matric Top Achiever Bursaries 2026
The Finance and Accounting Services Sector Education and Training Authority (FASSET) invites top‑performing learners from the matric class of 2025 to apply for bursaries that cover finance and accounting studies.
7. ATNS Bursaries 2026
The Air Traffic and Navigation Services (ATNS) offers a bursary programme for unemployed South African youth. It focuses on aviation, air traffic control and related technologies.
What You Gain
- Full tuition coverage
- Accommodation and book allowances
- Monthly stipends to cover living expenses
- Opportunities to work in high‑skill, high‑demand fields
- Access to industry mentors and networking events
How to Apply
- Visit the official bursary website or the link provided for each programme.
- Download the application form and read the eligibility checklist carefully.
- Gather the required documents: certified ID, academic results, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
- Fill out the online application or submit the paper form by post.
- Ensure you sign and date the application before the deadline.
- Keep a copy of the completed application for your records.
Practical Tips to Boost Your Chances
- Prepare certified copies of your ID and results early.
- Verify minimum entry requirements for each bursary before you start.
- Apply to multiple bursaries if you meet the criteria; the more you apply, the higher your chances.
- Submit your application well before the deadline—don’t wait until the last day.
- Ask a mentor or a teacher to review your personal statement and documents.
Final Reminder
If you are serious about funding your 2026 studies, you must submit your applications before 28 February 2026. Missing this deadline could delay your academic journey by an entire year. Take the time to research each programme, gather your documents, and apply early. Your future starts with the first step you take today.
