A career in medicine or health sciences in South Africa can be financially demanding so support students, various bursaries are available to ease the financial burden.
These bursaries not only provide financial assistance but often come with obligations, such as service commitments after graduation.
This article outlines the available bursaries for 2026, their eligibility criteria, and application details.
Available Medicine and Health Bursaries for 2026
1. Western Cape Department of Health Bursary
This bursary is intended for students residing in the Western Cape who are pursuing studies in health sciences. Fields covered include Nursing, Medicine (MBChB), Pharmacy, Radiography, and Emergency Medical Care. The bursary covers registration, tuition, and examination fees, but not accommodation. Recipients are required to work for the Western Cape Department of Health after graduation, with the community service year counting towards this obligation. The application process involves registering on the department’s bursary platform, completing the online form, and uploading necessary documents. The closing date for applications in 2024 was 30 September, which may be similar for 2025 applications.
2. Gauteng Department of Health Bursary
This bursary targets students permanently residing in Gauteng and studying in various health-related fields, including Pharmacy, Dentistry, Clinical Psychology, Medicine, Occupational Therapy, Physiotherapy, and more. Applicants must have a minimum “C” symbol average in Matric and come from disadvantaged backgrounds. Application forms can be obtained from specified hospitals and must be submitted with certified documents. The closing date for applications in 2024 was 16 May, which may be similar for 2025 applications.
3. South African Medical Association (SAMA) Bursary
SAMA offers bursaries to support medical students (MBChB or MB BCh) entering their 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year of study. The bursary provides R20,000 per annum, paid directly to the university, and does not cover accommodation or books. Applicants must be South African citizens with a strong academic record and financial need. Preference is given to SAMA members. Applications can be submitted via email or post, with the closing date in 2024 being 15 November.
4. Mediclinic External Bursary
Mediclinic offers bursaries for students enrolling or studying in Nursing, Pharmacy, or Emergency Medical Care. Applicants must provide academic results, proof of acceptance or registration, and financial information. Preference is given to candidates qualifying under Employment Equity guidelines. The closing date for applications in 2024 was 31 July, which may be similar for 2025 applications.
5. Provincial Department of Health Bursaries
Each province in South Africa may offer bursaries through their respective Departments of Health. Application processes and closing dates vary:
- KwaZulu-Natal: Applications open from 1 May to 31 August.
- Eastern Cape: Closing date is the end of October.
- Northern Cape: Closing date is the end of November.
- Limpopo: Closing date is the end of October.
- Mpumalanga: Closing date is the end of September.
Applicants are advised to collect application forms from their local government hospitals and submit completed forms with required certified documentation.
6. SAMA Research Masters and PhD Supplementary Scholarships
SAMA offers supplementary scholarships to encourage postgraduate research in the medical field. The Research Masters Scholarship provides R50,000 over two years, while the PhD Scholarship offers R100,000 plus tuition fees. Applicants must be South African citizens, medical graduates, and have started their respective postgraduate studies one year prior to application. Preference is given to SAMA members, and selection is based on the academic quality of the research proposal.
How Do I Apply for a Nursing Bursary in South Africa?
Nursing bursaries are offered by the Department of Health, provincial health departments, and private institutions.
To apply, you must meet the minimum requirements, which usually include a National Senior Certificate (NSC) with good marks in Life Sciences and Mathematics. Some bursaries require applicants to come from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The application process involves filling out forms, submitting certified copies of your ID and academic records, and sometimes attending an interview.
Most nursing bursaries cover tuition fees, accommodation, and a monthly allowance.
What Are the Requirements for a Medicine Bursary?
Most medicine bursaries require applicants to have excellent academic results, especially in subjects like Mathematics, Physical Sciences, and Life Sciences.
Financial need is also considered, and some bursaries prioritize students from rural or underprivileged areas. Applicants must be South African citizens and may need to provide proof of household income.
Some bursaries require students to sign a contract agreeing to work in public health facilities for a certain number of years after graduation.
What Should I Include in My Bursary Application?
A strong bursary application should have the following documents:
- A certified copy of your ID.
- Your latest academic results.
- Proof of household income.
- A motivational letter explaining why you deserve the bursary.
- Reference letters from teachers or community leaders.
- Proof of admission or application to a recognized institution.
Missing documents can lead to disqualification, so double-check the requirements before submitting.