South African students and Grade 12 learners looking for financial assistance to study in 2027 still have an opportunity to apply for several bursary programmes before 16 October 2026.
Various organisations, including the Motsepe Foundation and Etion Create, are offering bursaries to qualifying students who want to pursue qualifications in engineering, science, technology, accounting and other fields.
With application deadlines approaching, eligible students are encouraged to prepare their supporting documents and submit applications as soon as possible.
Below is a list of bursaries with closing dates between 11 and 16 October 2026, including application requirements and links to further information.
1. Motsepe Foundation Bursaries 2027
The Motsepe Foundation invites academically deserving South African students who demonstrate financial need to apply for the Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year.
Bursary Application Closing Date: 16 October 2026
Bursary Location: Selected communities across all nine provinces of South Africa.
The bursary supports qualifying students pursuing studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, Accounting, Mathematics and selected Humanities fields, including Law and Music.
Applicants generally need an academic average above 70%, excluding Life Orientation and Home Language, and must meet the Foundation’s geographical eligibility requirements.
The bursary may cover tuition, accommodation, study materials, meals and other approved educational expenses.
How to Apply
Click here to apply for Motsepe Foundation Bursaries 2027
2. Etion Create Bursaries 2027
Etion Create invites qualifying South African university students to apply for the Etion Create Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year.
Bursary Application Closing Date: 16 October 2026
Bursary Location: South Africa
Number of Bursaries: 2
Reference Number: ECBUR2026
The bursary is aimed at university students studying towards the following qualifications:
- BEng Electronics
- BEng Computer Engineering
Applicants must be South African citizens who have completed their second or third year of study in a relevant qualification. Matric Mathematics and Science are also required.
The bursary covers registration, tuition, textbooks, accommodation and meal vouchers. Successful recipients will be required to participate in vacation work during 2027.
How to Apply
Click here to apply for Etion Create Bursaries 2027
Enquiries Email: careers@etioncreate.co.za
Applications must be submitted online using reference number ECBUR2026.
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3. Other Bursaries Closing Between 13 and 16 October 2026
In addition to the bursaries listed above, students can explore the following funding opportunities. These deadlines have been reported by South African bursary directories; applicants should confirm that applications are still being accepted on the relevant official platforms.
zabursaries.co.za
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| Bursary Programme | Closing Date |
|---|---|
| And 310 Group Bursary 2027 | 13 October 2026 |
| Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) Bursary 2027 | 15 October 2026 |
| KwaZulu-Natal Department of Human Settlements Bursary 2027 | 15 October 2026 |
| Northern Cape Provincial Government Bursary 2027 | 15 October 2026 |
| AWS Skills Development Bursary 2027 | 16 October 2026 |
| SAIBPP Bursary Fund 2027 | 16 October 2026 |
Applicants can find application details and eligibility requirements in the October 2026 bursary closing-date directory.
Documents Needed When Applying for Bursaries
Although requirements differ between bursary providers, students should prepare the following documents:
- Certified copy of South African ID.
- Certified copy of Matric certificate or latest Grade 12 results.
- Latest academic transcript, if already studying.
- Proof of acceptance or registration at a recognised institution.
- Proof of household income or relevant financial-support documents.
- Updated CV, where required.
- Motivational letter, where required.
- Proof of residence, particularly for community-based bursaries.
Important Tips Before Applying
Students should read the eligibility criteria carefully before submitting an application. Some bursaries are restricted to specific provinces, municipalities, fields of study or academic levels.
Applications should be submitted before the advertised closing date. Incomplete applications, missing supporting documents and incorrect contact details may affect eligibility.
Applicants are also encouraged to use official application platforms, retain their application reference numbers and regularly check their emails for communication from bursary providers.
Find More Bursaries for 2027
Students who do not qualify for the opportunities listed above can explore additional funding programmes with later closing dates.
Click here to view more bursaries still open for 2027 on StudentRoom.
Conclusion
Several bursary opportunities remain available to South African students, with important deadlines falling between 13 and 16 October 2026.
Whether you are completing Matric or continuing your university studies, applying early and submitting the correct documents can improve your chances of being considered for funding.
Students are encouraged to share these opportunities with friends, classmates and family members who may need financial assistance for the 2027 academic year.