If you want to start a health career and need financial support, the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is offering a bursary that closes soon – the deadline is 30 September 2026. This could be the first step toward a stable, rewarding job in the public‑health sector.
What the bursary is
The Health Bursary Programme 2027 funds South African students who study full‑time health‑related qualifications. It targets unemployed learners who live in the Western Cape and have already completed Matric. In exchange for the funding, you will sign a work‑back agreement with the Department after you graduate.
Who can apply
- South African citizen
- Resident of the Western Cape
- Unemployed at the time of application
- Matric completed (Grade 12 certificate required)
- Planning to study full‑time at an accredited higher‑education institution
- Enrolled, accepted, or awaiting acceptance in one of the eligible health programmes
- Willing to complete any required clinical hours
- Ready to sign a full‑time bursary contract and accept the work‑back obligation
- No criminal record
What you gain
The bursary may cover registration, tuition, and examination fees for the following qualifications (subject to change based on service needs):
- Emergency Care Assistant – Higher Certificate
- Emergency Medical Care – National Diploma
- Medicine – MBChB
- Nursing (Higher Certificate, Diploma, Bachelor’s degree)
- Occupational Therapy
- Pharmacy
- Physiotherapy
- Speech Therapy
Accommodation costs are not included, so you will need to arrange your own housing.
How to apply – step by step
- Visit the official application portal: Western Cape Health Bursary 2027.
- Create an account using your 13‑digit South African ID number.
- Complete the online application form. Select the qualification you intend to study.
- Upload the required supporting documents (all must be certified):
- ID document
- Matric certificate
- Latest academic results
- Proof of Western Cape residence
- If applicable, proof of disability
- Parents/guardians’ proof of income (latest payslips, SASSA letter, or SARS tax certificate)
- Motivational letter
- Review the bursary agreement, especially the work‑back clause, and submit your application before 30 September 2026.
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that all documents are clear, legible, and certified.
- Write a concise motivational letter (½‑1 page) that explains why you chose a health career, your commitment to public health, and how the bursary will help you achieve your goals.
- Make sure your chosen programme is listed as eligible on the Department’s site.
- Submit the application well before the deadline to avoid last‑minute technical issues.
- Keep a screenshot or PDF of the confirmation email as proof of submission.
Next steps
The Department aims to announce selected candidates between January and February 2027. If you are successful, you will sign the bursary contract and begin your studies, with the first year of community service counting toward the required work‑back period.
Take action today – gather your documents, write your letter, and apply before the 30 September 2026 deadline. This bursary could open the door to a lifelong career in South Africa’s health sector.
