Time is running out – the SIOC Community Development Trust is offering a bursary that could fund your 2027 university studies, and the deadline is only weeks away.
What is the SIOC‑CDT Bursary Programme?
The SIOC‑CDT Bursary Programme supports learners and students from specific communities who want to study at a public higher‑education institution in South Africa. The bursary is for the 2027 academic year.
Location of the bursary: Gamagara, Ga‑Segonyana, Joe Morolong, Tsantsabane and Thabazimbi.
Application closing date: Monday, 30 November 2026 at 12:00 midday.
Who can apply?
- You must live in or come from one of the five beneficiary communities listed above.
- You must be 35 years old or younger on the closing date.
- You need an acceptance or provisional acceptance from a recognised public university or TVET college for 2027.
- You must show financial need for undergraduate or postgraduate study.
- Your household’s combined gross annual income must not exceed R600 000.
- You need an NSC average of at least 65 %.
- People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
What the bursary covers
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Prescribed study material
- A one‑off laptop
- A monthly stipend
- Assistive devices for students with disabilities
Priority fields of study
Agriculture
- Veterinary
- Livestock Product Analyst
- Environmental Officer
- Agricultural Economist
- Agricultural Engineer
- Food Technologists
- Food Technicians
Health and Clinical‑Related Sciences
- MBChB
- Pharmacy
- Dentistry
- Advanced EMS
- Nursing
- Chemical Sciences
- Biological Sciences
- Medical Laboratory Sciences
- Biochemistry
Education
- FET Mathematics
- BEd FET Physical Science
- BEd Natural Sciences
- Economic and Management Science
- BEd Foundation Phase
- BEd Language
- BEd Special Needs
Law
The priority qualification is a law degree (LLB).
Tourism
- Hospitality Management
- Arts and Culture Heritage
- Eco‑Tourism Management
Business Management and Economics
- Accounting
- Economics
- Auditing and Tax
- Actuarial Science
- Statistics and Mathematics
- Project Management
Engineering and Sciences
- Quantity Surveying
- Civil Engineering
- Architecture
- Geology
- Electrical Engineering
- Town Planning
- Environmental Health
Information Technology
- Computer Sciences and Communication
- Software Development
- Data Science / Analytics
- Web Design and Development
How to apply – step by step
- Gather all required documents (see list below).
- Choose your application method:
- Online: Complete the official form and upload your documents. Click here to apply for the SIOC‑CDT Bursary Programme 2027.
- Manual: Fill out a paper form and deliver it to one of the following offices:
- Kathu office: SIOC‑CDT Office Park, Block A Ground Floor, Corner Hendrick Van Eck and Ian Flemming Road, Kathu, 8446.
- Thabazimbi office: SIOC‑CDT Thabazimbi Business Hub, 11 Jourdain Street, Mollies Building, Thabazimbi, 0380.
- Submit your application before the closing date.
Required documents
- Certified copy of South African ID.
- Certified copy of latest Matric results (or final NSC results if completed before 2026).
- Mid‑year Grade 12 results, if applicable.
- University results for students applying from second year onward.
- Proof of acceptance or provisional acceptance.
- Proof of application to a recognised public institution (if applicable).
- Recent proof of residence (no older than three months).
- Proof of household income (parents/guardians), recent payslips, or sworn affidavit if unemployed.
- SASSA grant certificate (if applicable).
- Three months’ bank statements.
- Medical certificate confirming disability (if applicable).
Start gathering these early – some certificates can take time to obtain.
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that every document is certified and up to date.
- Make sure your NSC average is correctly recorded; a score below 65 % will lead to automatic disqualification.
- Write a clear, honest personal statement that explains your financial need and career goals.
- If you have a disability, attach the medical certificate and mention any assistive devices you may need.
- Submit your application well before the deadline to avoid last‑minute technical issues.
- Follow up with the office (by email or phone) to confirm receipt of a manual submission.
Final thoughts and next steps
This bursary can remove a major financial barrier to your higher education. Review the eligibility criteria, collect the documents, and submit your application before 12:00 midday on 30 November 2026. Good luck, and take the first step toward achieving your study goals today.
