Your Future in Blood Transfusion – The 2026 SANBS Bursary
If you want a job that literally saves lives, the SANBS Bursary 2026 could be the perfect start. It gives a South African student a chance to study a specialty called Immunohematology – the science that makes sure people get the right blood for their body. The blood you donate or work with can mean the difference between a successful surgery and a crisis, so this isn’t just a career, it’s a life‑saving mission.
What the Bursary Covers
The scholarship isn’t just a little stipend. It covers:
- R40,000 for university tuition
- R8,000 for books, lab tools and study supplies
- R2,200 a month for housing
- R3,500 a month as a living allowance
With all that help you can focus on your studies and the hands‑on work that will turn you into a real expert in blood safety.
Who Can Apply?
- South African citizens only
- Students who are 3rd‑year in a Bachelor of Health Sciences program
- Those taking Immunohematology as an elective
- Under 30 years old is preferred
- Must have at least a 65% average from the last school year
If you fit these boxes and want to help keep South Africa’s hospitals stocked with safe blood, you’re ready to apply.
Why This Job Matters
A career in Immunohematology puts you in a niche field that every hospital needs. You’ll work in labs that test blood, help doctors pick the right matches, and make sure transfusions go smoothly. Because not many people have this skill, the job offers good pay, job security, and the chance to be part of a team that touches thousands of lives.
How to Get Your Application Ready
- Download the form from the SANBS website:
Get the Application Form - Fill it out carefully – every question matters.
- Collect the paperwork:
- A copy of your South African ID
- Your latest academic transcript (showing a 65% or higher)
- Proof that you’re a 3rd‑year student (enrollment letter or similar)
- Send it to the email:
Bursaries@sanbs.org.za
Use a clear subject line like “SANBS Bursary Application 2026 – [Your Name]”. - Apply before 19 December 2025 – after that the forms won’t be looked at.
Make sure everything is neat, legible and in the right order. Keep a copy of everything you send.
Quick Checklist
- [ ] South African citizen
- [ ] Under 30 years old
- [ ] 3rd‑year Bachelor of Health Sciences, Immunohematology elective
- [ ] 65%+ average last year
- [ ] All required documents ready and certified
- [ ] Motivational note about why you want to specialise
A short note is a good way to tell the selection team why you’re passionate about this work. It doesn’t have to be long – just a few sentences about your interest and goals.
About SANBS
The South African National Blood Service is the backbone of the country’s blood supply. It collects, tests, and ships safe blood to hospitals and clinics. The work is critical for emergencies, surgeries, childbirth, cancer treatments and for people with chronic blood conditions like sickle cell disease. The organization needs skilled people who understand blood groups and how to match them safely, and that’s why the bursary exists.
Wrap‑Up
A job in blood transfusion science lets you be a real hero in a lab or a hospital. It offers good pay and a chance to work in a field that will always be in demand. With this bursary, you get financial help to cover fees, supplies and living costs so you can focus on learning and practising your skills.
If you’re ready to step into a future where you can help save lives every day, the SANBS Bursary 2026 is the step you need. Apply before 19 December 2025 and start your journey to becoming a key player in South Africa’s healthcare system.