If you need financial help to study in 2027, act now – many bursary applications close between 18 and 26 October 2026. Click here for an overview of the deadlines and start preparing your files today.
Companies, municipalities, government agencies and trusts are funding students in fields such as engineering, accounting, IT, science, finance and logistics. Below you will find the main details for each programme, who can apply, what you will receive and how to submit your application.
KN Inzuzo Trust Bursaries 2027
What the bursary offers
The Kuehne+Nagel Inzuzo Trust supports Black female South African students studying accounting, financial management, information systems, logistics, logistics management or transport economics.
Eligibility
- South African citizen, Black female
- Entering 2nd year, 3rd year or postgraduate study in 2027
- At least 60 % overall average in the most recent year
- Demonstrated leadership and financial need
- First‑year students are not eligible
Benefits
- Tuition, textbooks and accommodation allowance
- Monthly stipend (amount varies)
- Mentoring and work‑readiness support
How to apply
- Gather your latest results, ID copy and proof of need.
- Email the completed PDF to info.kninzuzotrust@kuehne-nagel.com.
- Alternatively, hand‑deliver the application to:
Busi Mabena, The Kuehne+Nagel Inzuzo Trust, 9 Nguni Drive, Longmeadow West Business Park, Edenvale.
Tips to improve your chances
- Write a clear motivation letter that links your career goals to the bursary fields.
- Proof‑read all documents – errors reduce credibility.
- Submit before the 18 October deadline.
Tiger Brands Graduate Bursary 2027
What the bursary offers
The programme funds students whose studies match Tiger Brands’ needs, including engineering, food science, supply‑chain, finance, accounting, data science and IT.
Eligibility
- South African university student in the first year, moving to second year in 2027
- At least 65 % overall in Matric and first‑semester university results
- Financial need
Benefits
- Tuition, accommodation, prescribed textbooks
- Monthly living allowance
- Possibility of vacation work placements
How to apply
- Prepare your academic transcripts, ID and a cover letter.
- Email all files to graduatebursaries@tigerbrands.com with the subject “Tiger Brands Graduate Bursary”.
Tips to improve your chances
- Highlight any work‑experience or projects related to the listed study areas.
- Show genuine interest in the food and consumer goods sector.
- Send your email well before the 22 October deadline.
Rio Tinto / Richards Bay Minerals (RBM) Bursary 2027
What the bursary offers
RBM funds first‑year university students in a wide range of disciplines, from engineering and mining to health sciences, law and media.
Eligibility
- South African citizen completing Matric in 2026
- Intended enrolment in a recognised university for 2027
- Minimum overall average of 65 %
- Financial need
Benefits
- Full tuition coverage for the first year
- Allowance for textbooks and study materials
- Potential future employment with Rio Tinto/RBM
How to apply
- Visit the RBM online portal and choose either the core or non‑core discipline link.
- Upload your transcripts, ID, proof of residence and a motivation letter.
- Send any questions to RTgraduaterecruitmentsupport@riotinto.com or recruitment.support@riotinto.com.
Tips to improve your chances
- Match your chosen field exactly with the list provided by RBM.
- Explain how the bursary will help you contribute to the mining and resources sector.
- Apply no later than 24 October.
Astron Energy Bursary 2027
What the bursary offers
Astron Energy supports studies in data analytics, engineering, IT, finance, commerce, internal audit, marketing and risk management.
Eligibility
- South African citizen under 35 years
- Minimum 70 % average in the most recent full academic year
- Meet the specific programme criteria (see online form)
Benefits
- Tuition, textbooks, accommodation, meals
- Monthly allowance
- Mentorship, academic support and work‑readiness training
- Work‑back: one year of work for each year funded
How to apply
- Collect your latest transcript, ID, proof of income and a concise motivation letter.
- Upload everything via the official portal: Astron Energy Bursary Application Portal.
- If you have questions, email support@auraams.app before the 26 October deadline (midday).
Tips to improve your chances
- Focus your letter on how you will apply the chosen field within the energy sector.
- Double‑check that all documents are legible and correctly named.
- Submit early to avoid last‑minute technical issues.
Magalies Water External Bursary 2027 (14 positions)
What the bursary offers
Magalies Water funds studies in engineering, water care, chemistry, biotechnology, and ICT. Four bursaries are available in each discipline.
Eligibility
- South African citizen, aged 18–35
- At least 65 % average in Grade 12
- Enrolment in N4–N6, Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in the listed fields
Benefits
- Financial assistance for tuition, books and related fees
- Potential work experience with Magalies Water after graduation
How to apply
- Download the official application form from the Magalies Water website.
- Complete the form and attach your academic results, ID and proof of need.
- Email the package to bursaries@magalieswater.co.za or call 014 597 4636 for help.
Tips to improve your chances
- Clearly state which of the 14 openings you are applying for.
- Show any extracurricular activities related to water management or engineering.
- Send your application before the 23 October deadline.
Applying for a bursary can feel overwhelming, but breaking the process into small steps makes it manageable. Start by checking the eligibility for each programme, then gather the required documents and write a focused motivation letter. Submit well before the closing dates and keep copies of everything you send. Good luck – your next step toward a funded 2027 academic year begins today.
