Why You Need to Know About This Bursary Today
Imagine a scholarship that can cover your tuition, books, living costs and give you a monthly stipend while you study – all aimed at helping you or a loved one return to work or start a business. The Compensation Fund Bursary Programme 2026 is exactly that, and it’s open to South African students right now. Don’t miss the chance to unlock your future before the deadline on 31 March 2026.
What the Compensation Fund Bursary Is All About
The Compensation Fund is a government body that pays out to workers who are injured, disabled or contract diseases at work, and to their families if a worker passes away. The 2026 bursary programme is a way for the Fund to give back by funding education and training for COID (Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases) beneficiaries and their dependants.
Who Can Apply
Group 1 – COID Beneficiaries with Permanent Disablement (PWD)
- South African citizen, currently unemployed and of working age
- A COID beneficiary with a permanent disability caused by an occupational injury or disease
- Accepted into a recognised TVET, CET college or higher‑education institution
- Planning to study a field that will help you re‑enter the workplace or start your own business
Group 2 – Dependants of COID Beneficiaries
- South African citizen, aged 17–35
- Dependent of a COID beneficiary with permanent disablement or a fatally injured employee
- Accepted or enrolled in a recognised TVET, CET college or university
- Studying in one of the listed fields (or another relevant qualification may be considered)
Both groups must meet all stated requirements; missing one condition means disqualification.
What You’ll Gain
The bursary covers:
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed study materials
- Accommodation
- A monthly stipend
It is awarded for a single academic year and may be renewed each year if you keep good grades and funds are still available.
How to Apply – Step by Step
- Download the Compensation Fund Bursary Application Form 2026 and fill it out.
- Gather the required documents for your group (see list below).
- Submit the completed form and all documents via email or hand delivery:
Email Submission
Send to: CFexternalbursaries@labour.gov.za
Subject line: “COID Bursary 2026”
Hand Delivery
Compensation House, Cnr. Hamilton and Soutpansberg Road, Prinshof, Pretoria
Applications after 31 March 2026 will not be considered. Apply early to avoid delays.
Documents You’ll Need
Group 1
- Certified copy of ID
- COID pension number or claim number
- Latest academic transcript (if studying)
- Proof of acceptance from your institution
- Quotation for tuition fees
- Quotation for prescribed learning resources (if available)
- Proof of residence
- Proof of disability (verified by a Health Care Professional or Disability Support Office)
Group 2
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copy of ID or unabridged birth certificate showing COID beneficiary details
- Certified copies of parents/guardians’ ID or death certificates
- COID pension number or claim number
- Matric June results (if still in matric)
- Latest academic transcript (if studying)
- Proof of acceptance from your institution
- Quotation for tuition fees
- Quotation for prescribed learning resources (if available)
- Proof of residence
- Proof of disability (if applicable)
- Pre‑entry assessment (for apprenticeship applicants)
- Proof of income (e.g., payslip, affidavit, SASSA proof, pension statement, or other income proof)
All documents are mandatory. Missing any could lead to disqualification.
Practical Tips to Boost Your Chances
Many applicants struggle with missing paperwork or unclear eligibility. From experience, the most successful candidates:
- Check every requirement against their own situation before starting.
- Ask an adviser or the bursary office for clarification on any document that feels confusing.
- Prepare a neat, organized file (physical or PDF) to avoid losing anything.
- Submit well before the deadline – give yourself at least a week to correct any issues.
- Keep a copy of the email or receipt of hand delivery as proof of submission.
What to Expect Next
Once you submit, you may receive a call or email within 2 months. If you haven’t heard anything by then, your application was likely not shortlisted. Keep your inbox and voicemail checked and be ready to provide any additional information if asked.
Remember, this bursary is a real opportunity to fund your studies, support your future career, or help a loved one do the same. Take the first step by downloading the application form, gathering your documents, and sending them in before 31 March 2026.
