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 Limpopo, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga, North West, Gauteng, Western Cape and Northern Cape, South Africa
About the Motsepe Foundation Bursary Programme 2027
The Motsepe Foundation Bursary Programme provides financial assistance to qualifying students who demonstrate strong academic performance and financial need.
Funding is available for selected fields of study in Science, Technology, Engineering, Accounting, Mathematics and Humanities, including Music and LLB programmes.
The bursary provides comprehensive support that goes beyond tuition fees, with assistance for accommodation, learning materials, meals and other student needs.
Bursary Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Achieve an average academic pass mark of more than 70%.
- Life Orientation and Home Language are excluded when calculating the required average.
- Demonstrate financial need.
- Intend to pursue studies within one of the supported fields.
- Meet the Foundation’s geographical eligibility requirements.
Applicants should ensure that their latest academic results demonstrate the required academic performance before applying.
Fields of Study Supported
The Motsepe Foundation Bursary supports studies within the following broad areas:
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Accounting
- Mathematics
- Humanities
- Music
- LLB / Law
Students should ensure that their intended qualification falls within one of the supported study areas.
What Does the Motsepe Foundation Bursary Cover?
The bursary provides extensive financial and student support, which may include:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- University-accredited accommodation
- Books
- Stationery
- Laptop
- Meal allowance
- Tutor allowance
- Mental wellness support
This makes the programme particularly valuable for financially needy students who may require assistance with both academic and day-to-day study expenses.
Documents Required
Applicants should prepare the following documents:
- Certified copy of the applicant’s ID.
- Certified ID copies of parents or legal guardians.
- Certified copy of the latest academic transcript or academic results.
- Proof of income for both parents or legal guardians.
- Testimonial letter from one of the following:
- School principal
- Religious leader
- Traditional leader
Applicants should ensure that all documents are clear, current and properly certified where required.
Supported Areas in Limpopo
Applicants from the following areas in Limpopo may apply:
- Sekhukhune
- Capricorn
- Vhembe
- Mopani
Supported Areas in Free State
The supported areas include:
- Thabo Mofutsanyana
- Mangaung
Supported Areas in KwaZulu-Natal
Applicants from the following areas may apply:
- uMgungundlovu
- eThekwini
- King Cetshwayo
Supported Areas in Eastern Cape
The supported areas include:
- OR Tambo
- Nelson Mandela Bay
- Buffalo City
Supported Areas in Mpumalanga
Applicants from the following areas may apply:
- Bushbuckridge
- Mbombela
- KwaMhlanga
Supported Areas in North West
Supported areas include:
- Mmakau
- Madibeng
- Bojanala
Supported Areas in Gauteng
Applicants from the following areas may apply:
- Tshwane
- Ekurhuleni
- Johannesburg
- Sedibeng
Supported Areas in Western Cape
The Foundation lists the following areas:
- Khayelitsha
- Mitchells Plain
Supported Areas in Northern Cape
Supported areas include:
- John Taolo Gaetsewe area
- Frances Baard
Applicants should confirm their geographical eligibility on the official application platform before submitting an application.
How to Apply
Applications for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary Programme 2027 should be completed through the Foundation’s official bursary platform.
Click here to apply for Motsepe Foundation Bursary Programme 2027
Applicants should review the bursary criteria carefully, prepare all required supporting documents and complete the application before the deadline.
Closing Date: 16 October 2026
Late applications may not be considered.
Tips Before Applying
Before submitting your application:
- Calculate your academic average excluding Life Orientation and Home Language.
- Confirm that your average is above 70%.
- Ensure that your course falls within a supported field of study.
- Confirm that your home area is included among the supported locations.
- Prepare certified copies of all required identity documents.
- Obtain proof of household income.
- Request your testimonial letter early.
- Make sure your academic results or transcript are clear and complete.