The South African Department of Health continues to offer bursaries every year to help young students afford their studies in the health sector.

These bursaries are meant to support students who want to study towards qualifications that are needed in the country’s public health system.

For the year 2026, learners who want to become nurses, doctors, pharmacists, or other health professionals can apply for financial support through the Department of Health.

These bursaries are offered by provincial departments as well, which means that each province may have its own application process and list of available study fields.

Students who are interested must understand how these bursaries work, who qualifies, and what they need to do once they are awarded the funding.

What does the Department of Health bursary cover?

The Department of Health bursary is designed to support students who cannot afford to pay for their own studies.

In most cases, the bursary covers the full cost of studying at a registered public university in South Africa. This may include:

  1. Tuition fees
  2. Accommodation (residence or private, depending on the agreement)
  3. Meals or a food allowance
  4. Prescribed textbooks
  5. A monthly living allowance (in some provinces)

Applicants should note that what is covered can differ depending on the province where the bursary is offered.

For example, Gauteng may offer more allowances than a smaller province like the Northern Cape.

Who qualifies for the Department of Health bursaries?

To qualify, applicants must meet certain requirements set by the provincial health department offering the bursary.

  1. The applicant must be a South African citizen.
  2. They must have a strong academic record, especially in Mathematics, Physical Science, and Life Science.
  3. They must be accepted or already studying at a public university in South Africa.
  4. Financial need must be proven with supporting documents such as proof of income from parents or guardians.
  5. The student must intend to work in the public health sector after completing their studies.

In some provinces, preference is given to students from disadvantaged backgrounds or rural areas.

Which fields of study are funded by the Department of Health?

The bursaries support fields that are in high demand in the South African health sector.

Some of the common study areas include:

  1. Medicine (MBChB)
  2. Nursing (Diploma or Degree)
  3. Pharmacy
  4. Radiography
  5. Dentistry
  6. Physiotherapy
  7. Occupational Therapy
  8. Environmental Health
  9. Dietetics and Nutrition

Applicants should check with their local Department of Health to see which courses are being funded for 2026.

How can I apply for a Department of Health bursary in 2026?

To apply, students need to follow the application process set by their province.

Most provinces advertise their bursaries on official government websites, in local newspapers, and at clinics or hospitals.

The application usually includes the following steps:

  1. Download or collect an application form from the provincial Department of Health.
  2. Complete the form with personal details and academic background.
  3. Attach all supporting documents, such as ID, proof of residence, academic results, and proof of income.
  4. Submit the application before the closing date.

Applications that are incomplete or submitted after the closing date are not considered.

Where can I get the application forms?

Each province has its own method of sharing application forms.

Some provinces, like Limpopo or KwaZulu-Natal, upload the forms to their official government websites.

Other provinces may require students to collect the forms at local hospitals or department offices.

Applicants should contact their provincial Department of Health or check their official websites to get the most accurate information.

Do I need to work for the government after completing my studies?

Yes, all students who are awarded bursaries are required to work in the public health sector once they finish their studies.

This is called a work-back agreement. The student signs a contract to work for the Department of Health for the same number of years that the bursary was received.

For example, if a student receives the bursary for four years, they must work for four years in a government hospital or clinic.

What documents must I submit with the bursary application?

Applicants must submit a set of important documents. These documents help the Department of Health decide who qualifies for the bursary.

Here is a list of the most common required documents:

  1. Certified copy of South African ID
  2. Certified copy of the latest academic results or matric certificate
  3. Proof of acceptance or registration at a university
  4. Proof of parents’ or guardians’ income (or affidavit if unemployed)
  5. Proof of residence (such as a municipal bill or letter from a tribal office)
  6. A signed application form

Make sure all copies are certified and clear.

Can I apply if I am already studying?

Yes, students who are already enrolled in a university can apply, especially if they are in their first or second year of study.

However, students must have passed all their previous subjects and must not be receiving another bursary from a government department.

When is the closing date for 2026 applications?

Each province sets its closing date. Most bursary applications for the following year open between June and September and close around October or November.

This year, it applications were closed on 14 March 2025.

It is important to apply early and to confirm the exact dates with your provincial Department of Health.