If you are a Grade 6 learner in Cape Town who wants a full scholarship to a top high school, the deadline is fast approaching. Students For A Better Future is accepting applications for its 2028 High School Scholarship Programme, and the final cut‑off is 12 August 2026 at 17:00.
What the scholarship offers
SBF will award 60 scholarships to learners who will start Grade 8 in 2028. Successful scholars are placed at one of the organisation’s partner schools in the Cape Town Metro and receive support from Grade 8 right through to Matric.
Who can apply
You may apply if you meet all of the following:
- Living in Cape Town, within 30 km of the SBF Newlands office.
- In Grade 6 during 2026 and will be in Grade 8 in 2028.
- Achieving at least 65 % overall in Grade 5 Term 4 and Grade 6 Term 2.
- Scoring at least 60 % in Mathematics and 65 % in English for the same periods.
- Coming from a household that meets the income limits (R18 000 for one child, R21 000 for two children, R24 000 for three or more – confirm whether this is monthly or yearly on the official form).
- Demonstrating self‑management, growth mindset, critical thinking, goal‑orientation and resilience.
Benefits you will receive
Each scholarship covers:
- School fees and uniform.
- Textbooks, sports kit and meal allowance.
- Travel costs and participation in camps and workshops.
- Access to additional development programmes that build confidence, teamwork, problem‑solving and other future‑focused skills.
How to apply – step‑by‑step
- Open the official SBF application form: Apply for the SBF High School Scholarship 2028.
- Enter the learner’s personal details accurately.
- Provide household information and parent/guardian identification.
- Record the Grade 5 and Grade 6 academic results.
- Upload the Grade 5 final report and Grade 6 Term 2 report.
- Upload copies of the learner’s birth certificate (and study visa if you are not a South African citizen).
- Upload proof of household income (salary slips and bank statements, or the appropriate affidavit).
- Upload a recent head‑and‑shoulders photograph of the learner.
- Write and attach a 350‑word essay on “A time in your life that has shaped who you are”.
- Review every field to ensure all required documents are attached.
- Submit the form before 17:00 on 12 August 2026.
Tips to improve your chances
- Check that all marks are entered correctly; a typo can cost you points.
- Use the exact wording for the essay prompt and keep the word count close to 350.
- Attach clear, colour‑filled PDFs of all documents – blurry files are often rejected.
- If you are self‑employed or receive a SASSA grant, include the specific statements the form asks for.
- Ask a teacher or mentor to proofread your essay and check the completeness of your paperwork before you submit.
- Submit early; technical issues are less likely when traffic is lower.
Next steps after you apply
If your application passes the initial screening (feedback sent in September 2026), you will be invited to:
- Complete online psychosocial and academic tests (September 2026).
- Take an entrance examination in English and Mathematics (October 2026).
- Participate in a family interview with a social worker (November‑December 2026).
- Join a practical selection experience that assesses creativity, teamwork and resilience (January 2027).
- Receive a scholarship offer around February 2027 if you are successful.
Selected scholars will then enrol in a seven‑month Grade 7 preparatory programme to build relationships, boost confidence and get ready for high school life.
Final reminder
Make sure you meet every eligibility point, attach all required documents, and submit before the deadline. Meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee a place, but a complete and careful application gives you the best possible chance.
