Need a health‑science degree but worry about tuition costs? The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is offering a bursary that could cover most of your fees – and the deadline is fast approaching.
What the bursary is
The Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness is launching the Health Science Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year. It supports unemployed South African citizens living in the Western Cape who want to study full‑time in selected health‑science fields.
Who can apply (eligibility)
- South African citizen
- Resident of the Western Cape province
- Unemployed at the time of application
- Matriculated (Matric certificate completed)
- Accepted, awaiting acceptance, or intending to study full‑time in one of the listed qualifications at an accredited higher‑education institution
- Willing to complete any required clinical hours
- No criminal record
What you will gain
- Financial help with registration, tuition and examination fees (accommodation not covered)
- The chance to study programmes such as Emergency Care Assistant, Emergency Medical Care, Medicine, Nursing (various levels), Occupational Therapy, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy and Speech Therapy
- After graduation you will be employed by the Western Cape Department of Health, gaining valuable public‑sector experience
How to apply – step by step
- Register an account on the official bursary platform: Register here.
- Log in to the platform: Login here.
- Complete the online application form with your personal details.
- Upload clear, certified copies of all required documents (see list below).
Required documents
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate
- Certified copy of your most recent qualification or academic results
- Proof of residence (certified)
- Proof of parents/guardians’ income (latest payslips, SASSA letter or SARS tax certificate – certified)
- Proof of disability, if applicable (certified)
- Motivational letter explaining why you want the bursary
Missing or unclear documents may lead to disqualification, so double‑check before you submit.
Tips to improve your chances
- Read the FAQ and Help sections on the bursary platform before you start.
- Make sure every uploaded file is legible and properly certified.
- Write a concise, honest motivational letter that shows your commitment to the health sector.
- Submit the application well before the 30 September 2026 deadline to avoid last‑minute technical issues.
- Keep a copy of all documents and confirmation emails for your records.
Bursary obligations
- You must sign a full‑time bursary contract with the Department.
- After graduation you will work for the Western Cape Department of Health for the contracted period.
- If required, your community‑service year counts as the first year of the work‑back obligation.
- Internships do not count toward the work‑back period.
- Failure to complete the required service may result in having to repay all bursary expenses.
Contact information
If you have questions, you can reach out to the following people (check the FAQ first):
- Monray Strydom – Project Coordinator
Tel: 021 483 6610
Email: Monray.Strydom@westerncape.gov.za - Sisipho Folose – First Line Support
Tel: 021 483 6597
Email: Sisipho.Folose@westerncape.gov.za - Nathan Kantwe
Tel: 021 483 7038
Email: Nathan.Kantwe@westerncape.gov.za
Key dates
Application deadline: 30 September 2026. Applications received after this date will not be accepted.
Notification of successful applicants is expected between January and February 2027.
Final thoughts and next steps
This bursary is a solid way to start a career in health science without the weight of tuition fees. If you meet the eligibility criteria, gather your documents, and submit your application before the deadline, you could be on your way to studying medicine, nursing, pharmacy or another vital health profession in the Western Cape.
