Getting access to higher education in South Africa is often limited by financial difficulties.

Many students in the North West province are talented and hardworking but cannot afford to pay for tuition, accommodation, books, and other academic costs.

Bursaries are financial awards given to such students based on specific conditions like academic performance, field of study, or financial need.

In 2026, several bursary opportunities are available for students who reside in the North West province or who wish to study there.

This article provides information about available bursaries in the North West, who can apply, how to apply, and what to consider before applying.

It uses simple language to help everyone understand, especially high school learners and parents looking for funding opportunities.

Bursaries Available for Students in North West in 2026

Many government departments, municipalities, private companies, and institutions in the North West offer bursaries. 

These bursaries help students study at universities, universities of technology, or TVET colleges in South Africa.

Some of the bursaries available for 2026 include:

  1. North West Provincial Government Bursary
    • Open to students from the North West.
    • Covers fields such as Engineering, Health Sciences, Education, Agriculture, and Accounting.
    • Includes tuition, accommodation, meals, and study materials.
  2. Rustenburg Local Municipality Bursary
    • Open to residents of Rustenburg.
    • Focuses on scarce skills like Engineering, Town Planning, and Finance.
    • Only for students who show financial need and academic excellence.
  3. Sibanye-Stillwater Bursary
    • For students interested in the mining sector.
    • Includes Engineering, Geology, Metallurgy, and Mining Survey.
    • Preference is given to learners from areas around Sibanye-Stillwater operations in North West.
  4. Royal Bafokeng Institute Bursary
    • Open to Bafokeng nation members and nearby communities.
    • Covers a range of study fields.
    • Usually linked to the community development programs.
  5. Department of Health North West Bursary
    • For students who want to study Nursing, Medicine, Radiography, or Pharmacy.
    • Must commit to working for the Department after graduating.
  6. NWU (North-West University) Internal Bursaries
    • For registered students at NWU.
    • Based on academic performance and financial need.
  7. Fermel (Pty) Ltd Bursary
    • Focuses on Engineering students.
    • Applicants must be from North West and show interest in the mining and machinery industry.

What is a bursary and how does it work?

A bursary is money given to a student to help pay for their studies. The money does not need to be paid back, but most bursaries have conditions.

Some may ask students to work for the company or government department after completing their degree.

Others may ask students to pass all their subjects every year.

Bursaries usually cover tuition, accommodation, books, and sometimes food and transport. Each bursary has its own rules about what it pays for and who can apply.

Who qualifies for bursaries in North West?

Most bursaries are meant for students who:

  1. Live in the North West province.
  2. Are South African citizens.
  3. Have been accepted to study at a registered tertiary institution.
  4. Have good academic results.
  5. Come from families who cannot afford to pay for university or college.

Some bursaries are only for students who want to study certain subjects like Engineering or Education.

How can I apply for a bursary in North West?

To apply, you usually need to:

  1. Fill in a bursary application form.
  2. Attach a certified copy of your ID.
  3. Provide your Grade 12 results or latest academic record.
  4. Attach proof of acceptance from a tertiary institution.
  5. Submit proof of household income.
  6. Write a motivation letter explaining why you need the bursary.

Each bursary may have its own list of documents needed, so it is important to follow the instructions carefully.

Where can I find bursary application forms?

Application forms can be found in several places:

  1. On the websites of government departments and municipalities.
  2. At municipal offices and libraries in your local area.
  3. On the websites of universities and colleges.
  4. Through school principals or career guidance teachers.
  5. On trusted bursary websites that post daily updates.

It is helpful to start looking early in the year, as most bursaries open between August and November for the next academic year.

When is the best time to apply for a 2026 bursary?

Most bursary applications for 2026 will open in the second half of 2025. Many close around October or November.

It is important to apply as early as possible and to submit all required documents. Late applications are usually not considered.

What happens after I apply for a bursary?

After submitting your application:

  1. You may receive an email or SMS confirming your application.
  2. Some bursars will invite you for an interview or selection test.
  3. If you are successful, you will receive an offer letter or contract to sign.
  4. If you are not selected, you might not hear back, so it is good to apply for more than one bursary.

Can I apply for more than one bursary?

Yes, applying for several bursaries is allowed. This increases your chances of getting funding.

If you get more than one bursary offer, you must choose the one that suits your needs best.

Some bursaries will not allow you to accept other funding at the same time, so read the rules carefully.

In 2026, bursaries will continue to play a big role in helping students from the North West study further.

With the right preparation and early applications, many students can secure the support they need to reach their educational goals.