GrandWest is looking for bright students in the Western Cape who want a break from tuition costs for 2026. If you’re still studying full‑time at a university in the province, you could get a free scholarship that covers registration, tuition and a small book allowance. The application closes on 15 January 2026, so if you’re ready to take the next step in your education, read on to see if you qualify and how to apply.
What is the GrandWest Bursary Programme?
GrandWest, a big name in Cape Town’s entertainment and hospitality scene, is part of Sun International. The company has a strong history of helping people in the Western Cape through community projects and learning support. Their bursary programme is a way to give young people the money they need to pursue a first university degree. The program is meant to build a future that works for both the student and the community, and it is open only to South African citizens who live in the province.
Which subjects can you study?
The bursary is designed for full‑time undergraduate students only. It will cover the following areas of study:
– Agriculture
– Electrical Engineering
– Entrepreneurship
– Finance
– Human Resources
– Information Technology
– Marketing
– Mechanical Engineering
– Tourism and Hospitality
You cannot use the bursary for postgraduate or part‑time courses. The aim is to help people start their first degree and finish it with confidence.
What does the bursary cover?
You will get money for:
– Your registration fees
– Your tuition fees
– An allowance of R5 000 for textbooks
Anything else – like a place to live, school supplies or other living costs – is not included. Also, any debts you might have from a previous academic year will not be covered. The scholarship applies only to the current academic year and you must re‑apply each year if you keep doing well in your studies. There is no repayment needed. However, you should join community projects and send a short report about your volunteer work. This keeps the partnership strong and lets GrandWest see the impact of its support.
Who can apply?
To be eligible you must meet all of these points:
– Be a South African citizen.
– Be younger than 27 years old.
– Live in the Western Cape Province.
– Have finished Matric in South Africa.
– Be studying full‑time toward a first bachelor’s degree.
– Be registered at one of the public institutions below:
– University of Cape Town (UCT)
– University of the Western Cape (UWC)
– Stellenbosch University (SU)
– Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
– Not have subjects carried over from a previous academic year.
– Have a good academic record.
– Not be working full‑time.
– Students with disabilities or impairments are encouraged to apply.
If you tick all these boxes, you can move on to the next step.
How to apply
The first step is to ask for the application form. Send an e‑mail to studywithgrandwest@suninternational.com. In the subject line write “GrandWest Bursary 2026”. Once you receive the form, fill it in carefully and include the link www.zabursaries.co.za in the section that asks where you heard about the bursary.
What paperwork do you need?
You will need clear, certified copies of the following items. If you forget any, your application may be rejected:
– South African ID (certified and issued within the last 3 months)
– Matric certificate (certified)
– Proof that you are registered at one of the listed universities (an official letter on university stationery)
– Your full academic record so far (if you are already studying)
– A letter of acceptance if you already have one
– A detailed fee statement or a quotation from your university
– A course outline on official university stationery
– Proof of income for your parents or guardians – this can be a recent payslip if they work, or an affidavit if they do not.
– Information about any other bursaries or financial help you’re receiving.
All documents must be clear copies. The process is simple but requires honesty and organization.
Why is this important?
The scholarship lets students focus on learning rather than worrying about money. It also helps GrandWest give back to the community by encouraging students to volunteer. It’s a win‑win: students get to build a career, and the community benefits from fresh ideas and skilled people.
Final thoughts
If you’re a student in the Western Cape, under 27 and ready to start a university degree, consider applying for the GrandWest Bursary 2026. The deadline is 15 January, so don’t wait. Gather your documents, email the application request, and submit a strong, clear application. This could be a chance to lighten your financial load and step closer to your future. Good luck!
