The Gauteng City Region Academy (GCRA) is looking for bright South African students to apply for the GCRA Bursary Programme 2026.
If you’re a student in Gauteng who wants to study at a university or college but needs help with tuition, this bursary might be exactly what you need. It offers full payment of your fees for both undergraduate and postgraduate courses, so you won’t have to worry about money while you study.
Why this bursary matters
The GCRA Bursary Programme is a project started by the Gauteng Provincial Government. It covers the entire cost of your studies, but only for students who meet certain criteria. It’s one of the most open and wide‑ranging funding options in South Africa because it works for any field of study – whether you want to become an engineer, a teacher, a lawyer, or study science, art, or business.
Who can apply?
You can apply if you meet at least one of the following:
- You finished high school (Matric) and live in Gauteng. You’ll need to show proof of where you live – a utility bill or a letter from your local ward councillor will work.
- You’ve already been accepted or are registered at an accredited South African university or college and plan to take an undergraduate program.
- You’re accepted to a postgraduate program at a recognized university.
In addition to these categories, some students qualify automatically once they submit the online application. These include:
- Students who were top performers at their Gauteng schools.
- Students who were top learners at schools that do not charge tuition in Gauteng.
- The top three learners from LSEN schools in Gauteng.
Even if you qualify automatically, you still need to finish the full online application.
Basic eligibility rules
- You must be a South African citizen by birth.
- You must be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Preference will go to students who live in Gauteng.
- You must be studying or planning to study at a South African institution that is officially recognized.
What you need to send in
The bursary office asks for a set of documents. Make sure each one is certified and up‑to‑date. These include:
- A copy of your South African ID.
- Proof that you live in Gauteng – a recent electricity or water bill, or a council letter.
- Your Matric certificate or the latest academic results.
- Proof of your parents’ or guardians’ income, such as a payslip or a formal statement.
- A motivation letter – no more than two pages – where you explain why you want the bursary and what you plan to do after graduation.
- A letter confirming your registration or acceptance to the chosen university or college.
- If you have a disability or medical condition that needs special attention, send a medical report.
Missing any of these documents can mean your application is automatically dropped, so double‑check before you hit “submit.”
How to apply
- Create an account – Click here to register: Register at GCRA.
- Log in – Use this link to log in: Login page.
- Fill out the application – Enter your personal details, education background, and the name of the institution you’ll attend. Upload all the required documents.
When to finish
The last day to submit your application is 28 February 2026. After that date, no more applications will be accepted, even if you’re still on the waiting list. It’s smart to apply early – this way you can fix any errors before the deadline.
Things to keep in mind
- The bursary will pay the full tuition cost, but it is subject to the terms of the contract.
- Even though the program is open to all fields, it still gives priority to students who live in Gauteng.
- Anyone who is shortlisted may be asked to provide additional verification.
Why this could be your next step
If you’re a young South African ready to study anything you love at a reputable institution but lack the financial resources, the GCRA Bursary Programme 2026 can give you the support you need. Don’t let money stop you from reaching your dreams.
Take advantage of this chance – apply before 28 February 2026 and start building the future you want.
For more info about this opportunity, visit the main page here.