Looking for a way to pay for school in 2026?
If you’re a student in South Africa and you’re planning to study Accounting, Engineering, IT, Energy, or other industrial subjects, you’ll want to know about the biggest money‑help programmes that are closing soon. In February, a lot of bursaries (scholarships that cover tuition and living expenses) go out the door. Missing a deadline could mean you’ll have to pay a lot of your own money for the next academic year. Below, we break down the four top bursaries you should apply for before 13 February 2026, the exact dates, what you need to qualify, and how to get started. Back to home.
1. PG Group Bursaries 2026 – For African Women
Deadline: 10 February 2026
Who can apply? Female students from Africa who are doing or want to do a degree in Accounting, Engineering, or IT at a South African university. You should have good grades and need some financial help.
Why it matters: This bursary is a big chance for women in fields that usually have more men. It not only gives you money but also shows you that your country supports women in tech and business.
How to apply: Click here to apply for PG Group Bursaries 2026. (Replace # with the real link.)
2. National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) Bursaries 2026
Deadline: 12 February 2026
Who can apply? South African citizens who have been accepted or are about to start a postgraduate (master’s or PhD) program. You need a solid academic record and an interest in energy, law, economics, engineering or finance.
Why it matters: These bursaries are perfect if you want a future in energy policy or a job in a government body that makes rules about electricity and gas.
How to apply: Click here to apply for NERSA Bursaries 2026.
3. South African Petroleum Refinery (SAPREF) Bursaries 2026
Deadline: 12 February 2026
Who can apply? South African students who are studying or want to study in Chemical, Mechanical, or Electrical Engineering, Finance, or environmental subjects.
Why it matters: SAPREF focuses on the oil and gas industry. If you’re fascinated by refineries, power plants, or heavy industry, this bursary gives you a foot‑in‑the‑door and a chance to learn the skills that companies need.
How to apply: Click here to apply for SAPREF Bursaries 2026.
4. Idwala Industrial Holdings Community Bursaries 2026
Deadline: 13 February 2026
Who can apply? South African students living near Idwala’s mining and industrial sites, especially those studying engineering or science. You need good grades and need money to finish your degree.
Why it matters: These bursaries support people in communities that rely on mining and industry, giving them a stable path to a long‑term career.
How to apply: Click here to apply for Idwala Industrial Holdings Bursaries 2026.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
A lot of students miss out because they think they can’t qualify, they wait until the last minute, or they forget how many people are also applying. By acting early you:
- Avoid technical problems when you fill out the form.
- Give yourself more time to write a good statement of purpose.
- Show the committee you’re serious about your studies.
Even if you’re not sure you meet every single requirement, it’s worth applying. Sometimes a small gap in your profile can be filled with a strong recommendation letter or a clear explanation of why you’re a good fit.
Final Reminder
All these bursaries close between 10 and 13 February 2026. After the deadline, you cannot submit your application. If you think you qualify for any of these programmes, don’t wait. Start your application today and secure the funding that could cover your tuition, books, and living costs for the next academic year.
Good luck, and remember: the sooner you apply, the better your chances of getting the support you need to focus on your studies and future career.