Compensation Fund Bursaries 2026 – Secure Your Scholarship Now

Compensation Fund 2026 Bursary: A Chance to Get a Free Education

If you or someone close to you has had a job accident or a work‑related disease, the Compensation Fund has a new program for the 2026 school year. It is a bursary—essentially a scholarship—that covers most of the costs of studying at a recognised South African college or university. The deadline to apply is March 31, 2026. The program is aimed at people who are out of work because of a permanent disability from a workplace injury or disease, their dependants, and families of workers who were killed in a job accident.

The bursary is not just money. It gives people a second chance to learn new skills, improve their chances of finding a job, and rebuild confidence and dignity after a tough situation.

Who Can Apply?

The bursary is open to three main groups:

1. Unemployed COID beneficiaries who have a permanent disability and are within the working‑age range.
2. Dependants of COID beneficiaries who also have a permanent disability.
3. Dependants of workers who died on the job (ages 17 to 35).

Applicants must have been accepted to one of these schools:

• TVET Colleges
• CET Colleges
• Public Higher Education Institutions (universities and universities of technology)

What Does the Bursary Pay For?

The bursary covers all of the following costs while you are studying:

• Tuition fees
• Required textbooks and study material
• A monthly stipend to help with living expenses
• Accommodation if you need to stay near the school

The support can be renewed each year, as long as there is money available and you keep good grades.

What Subjects Can You Study?

You can choose any programme that will help you return to work or start your own business. This could be a trade skill, a technical course, or a traditional university degree. The application form lists some recommended qualifications, but you are not restricted to those. The only rule is that the study must help you overcome any disability or educational barrier.

How to Check If You Qualify

You must meet all of these requirements:

• Fill out the whole application form correctly
• Provide a valid COID Pension Number or Claim Number
• Attach certified copies of your South African ID and, if you are a dependant, your parent’s or guardian’s ID or death certificate
• Show a written acceptance from a recognised school
• Be registered as a full‑time student (students with disabilities may apply for part‑time study under special conditions)
• Submit a medical report that proves you have a permanent disability (from a health professional or from a Disability Support Office/ WCL form)

Incomplete applications will not be accepted.

How to Apply

Step 1 – Get the Application Form
Click here to download the 2026 application PDF: Download the Compensation Fund External Bursary Application Form 2026.

Step 2 – Send Your Application

If you do not hear back within two months, your application is probably not successful.

Why This Bursary Is Important

The bursary goes beyond a simple financial hand‑out. It is a tool for recovery and growth. It helps injured workers rebuild their lives, gives families of deceased workers a chance to study, and lets people with disabilities gain skills that help them earn an income.

South Africa has very few programmes that combine education, disability support, and long‑term job prospects. This one is among the most impactful.

Need Help or Have Questions?

You can reach out for more information or support:

• Phone – (012) 319 9264 / (012) 319 5774 / (012) 319 9124
• Toll‑free Customer Care – 0800 321 222 / 0860 10 5350
• SMS – 44967

Take the first step toward a brighter future. The bursary deadline is March 31, 2026, so apply early. Good luck!