Thousands of South African students miss out on bursary opportunities every year simply because they apply too late. If you are planning to study in 2026, now is the time to secure funding.
Several major bursaries are currently open but close before or on 15 March 2026. These opportunities cover fields such as engineering, tourism, agriculture, finance and other critical skills needed in South Africa.
Below are four bursaries you should apply for immediately before the deadline passes.
1. AfriSam Engineering Bursary 2026
AfriSam South Africa is offering an exciting bursary opportunity for students pursuing careers in engineering.
This bursary supports students who want to gain experience in the mining, cement and construction materials industry while studying.
Bursary Details
- Organisation: AfriSam South Africa
- Bursary Location: Zeekoewater Quarry, Mpumalanga
- Fields Covered: Mechanical Engineering and Electrical Engineering
- Number of Positions: 1 bursary available
- Closing Date: 13 March 2026
AfriSam is one of South Africa’s leading suppliers of cement, aggregate and construction materials, making this bursary ideal for students interested in industrial engineering environments.
Click here to apply for AfriSam Engineering Bursary 2026
2. Sasria Bursaries 2026
The Sasria SOC Limited Bursary Programme is designed to support talented South African students who want to pursue higher education.
Sasria is a state-owned company that provides special risk insurance, and the bursary programme helps students build careers in key professional fields.
Bursary Details
- Organisation: Sasria SOC Limited
- Eligible Applicants: South African matriculants and students
- Closing Date: 13 March 2026
The bursary covers studies in selected fields aligned with Sasria’s operational needs and provides valuable support for students entering university.
Click here to apply for Sasria Bursaries 2026
3. Department of Tourism Bursaries 2026
The Department of Tourism is offering the External Bursary Programme for 2026 to support students pursuing studies related to tourism and hospitality.
The tourism sector plays a crucial role in South Africa’s economy and offers many career opportunities for graduates.
Bursary Details
- Organisation: Department of Tourism
- Programme: External Bursaries Programme
- Fields Covered: Tourism and related qualifications
- Closing Date: 13 March 2026
This bursary aims to help develop skills needed to grow the tourism industry and strengthen the country’s economic development.
Click here to apply for Department of Tourism Bursaries 2026
4. South African Society of Crop Production (SASCP) Bursaries 2026
The South African Society of Crop Production (SASCP) bursary supports students studying Crop Science and Agronomy, which are essential fields for improving agricultural productivity and food security.
The bursary encourages research and innovation in crop production and sustainable agriculture.
Bursary Details
- Organisation: South African Society of Crop Production (SASCP)
- Fields Covered: Crop Science and Agronomy
- Undergraduate Bursary Value: R15 000
- MSc Bursary Value: R20 000
- PhD Bursary Value: R25 000
- Closing Date: 15 March 2026
Click here to apply for South African Society of Crop Production (SASCP) Bursaries 2026
Final Advice for Students
If you want to study in 2026, bursaries like these can make a huge difference in covering tuition fees and study costs.
Before applying, make sure you:
- Prepare certified copies of your ID and academic records
- Write a strong motivational letter
- Submit your application before the deadline
Remember, most bursaries receive thousands of applications, so applying early increases your chances of being considered.