Want a bursary based on what you want to study? Whether you are into engineering, teaching, medicine, or art, there is a bursary.

We have listed the most popular fields of study in South Africa and what you should know when applying for bursaries in each one.

Bursaries by Field of Study

1. Engineering Bursaries

Engineering is one of the most funded study fields in South Africa. Many companies and government departments offer bursaries because of the high demand for skilled engineers.

Top sponsors include:

  • Eskom
  • Sasol
  • Transnet
  • Department of Public Works

These bursaries often cover full tuition, accommodation, and practical training (internships).

2. Teaching Bursaries

If you want to become a teacher, many bursaries are available – especially in subjects like Maths, Science, and Technology.

The Funza Lushaka Bursary is the most well-known. The government funds it and covers everything from fees to food. It also guarantees a job placement after graduation.

3. Health & Medicine Bursaries

South Africa needs more doctors, nurses, and health workers. Because of this, bursaries in the health field are widely available from:

  • Provincial Health Departments
  • Netcare and Mediclinic
  • The National Department of Health

Some bursaries require you to work in public hospitals after graduation as part of a service contract.

4. Accounting & Finance Bursaries

Aspiring accountants, auditors, and financial managers can get bursaries from top firms like:

  • PwC
  • Deloitte
  • Nedbank
  • SAICA (Thuthuka Bursary Fund)

These bursaries often include mentorship and vacation work opportunities.

5. Information Technology (IT) Bursaries

The tech industry is growing fast, and so is the need for developers, network specialists, and data analysts.

Top funders include:

  • MTN
  • Telkom
  • Amazon Web Services (AWS)
  • Department of Communications and Digital Technologies

Most IT bursaries support computer science, software development, or data science students.

6. Agriculture Bursaries

South Africa’s farming sector supports students through bursaries in crop production, animal science, and agricultural economics.

Funders include:

  • Department of Agriculture
  • AgriSETA
  • Grain SA
  • Provincial departments and private farms

These bursaries often include hands-on farm experience.

7. Law Bursaries

Law students can get funding from law firms, municipalities, and government bursary programs.

Major sponsors:

  • LegalWise
  • Department of Justice
  • Private law firms
  • Municipalities like eThekwini and Johannesburg

Some bursaries may require you to work at the sponsoring firm after graduation.

8. Art, Design & Media Bursaries

If you’re creative, you’re not left out! There are bursaries for performing arts, graphic design, photography, and film students.

Funders include:

  • National Arts Council
  • City of Cape Town (Arts & Culture)
  • Private design schools and media houses

Some bursaries also support short courses and workshops.

9. Social Work & Community Development Bursaries

Social workers play a key role in South Africa’s development. That’s why the Department of Social Development offers full bursaries every year.

These bursaries are perfect for students who want to uplift communities, support vulnerable groups, and make a social impact.

How to Use This Page

Click on your preferred field to explore available bursaries. Each section links to bursaries that match your career path, updated regularly.

We’ve grouped bursaries to make your search faster and easier.

We will add more fields to this page; if you have bursary opportunities in a field we have not covered here, contact us using the Contact Us page.

Finally, always make sure you follow the below instructions to increase your chances of getting funded by bursary

  • Apply to bursaries that match your passion and skill.
  • Many bursaries have strict deadlines – don’t wait until the last minute!
  • Prepare the correct documents: motivation letter, academic results, and ID.

Find the right bursary based on your dream career – and take the next step today.

You can apply for multiple bursaries – follow each one’s instructions.