UNISA Bursaries & Scholarships 2026
UNISA Bursaries & Scholarships 2026
Funding your UNISA education does not have to be a barrier. Beyond NSFAS, there are numerous bursary and scholarship opportunities available to UNISA students. External bursaries are offered by private companies, government departments, NGOs, and industry bodies. Popular options include: Funza Lushaka (teaching), Department of Agriculture bursaries, mining company bursaries (for engineering and environmental sciences), and various corporate bursaries from companies like Sasol, Transnet, Eskom, and Standard Bank.
SETAs (Sector Education and Training Authorities) offer bursaries for qualifications aligned to their industry sectors. Check the SETA relevant to your field of study. Employer sponsorship is common for working students — many employers offer tuition reimbursement or bursaries for employees studying relevant qualifications. Check with your HR department.
UNISA's own scholarship programme offers merit-based awards for academically excellent students. These are typically advertised on the UNISA website. Private student loans from providers like Eduloan and Fundi offer financing with interest. Compare terms carefully before committing.
Tips for successful bursary applications: apply early, meet all requirements, submit complete documentation, write a compelling motivation letter, and apply for multiple bursaries simultaneously..
Detailed Bursary Options
Government Bursaries
Several government departments offer bursaries for students studying in fields relevant to their mandate. These include the Department of Agriculture, Department of Water and Sanitation, Department of Health, and Department of Public Works. Government bursaries typically require a service obligation — you must work for the department for a specified period after graduation.
Corporate Bursaries
Large South African corporations offer bursaries as part of their corporate social responsibility and talent pipeline development. Popular corporate bursary providers include:
- Sasol: Engineering, science, and IT qualifications
- Eskom: Engineering, IT, and finance
- Transnet: Engineering, logistics, and supply chain management
- Standard Bank, FNB, Nedbank, ABSA: Commerce, accounting, and IT
- MTN, Vodacom, Telkom: IT, engineering, and business
- Anglo American, De Beers: Mining engineering, environmental science
SETA Bursaries
Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) administer skills development funds collected from employer levies. Each SETA funds qualifications relevant to its sector. Examples include BANKSETA (banking), FASSET (finance and accounting), MICT SETA (media and ICT), HWSETA (health and welfare), and ETDP SETA (education and training). Contact the SETA relevant to your field of study for bursary availability.
Writing a Strong Bursary Motivation Letter
- Open with your personal background and why you need financial assistance
- Explain what you are studying and why (your career goals)
- Describe your academic achievements and potential
- Mention any community involvement or leadership experience
- Explain how the bursary will make a difference in your life
- Close with gratitude and a commitment to academic excellence
How to Apply for Multiple Bursaries
Applying for multiple bursaries simultaneously maximises your chances of securing funding. Here is a systematic approach to managing multiple bursary applications:
Create a Bursary Tracker
Use a spreadsheet or notebook to track every bursary you apply for. Record the bursary name, provider, closing date, required documents, submission method, and application status. This prevents missed deadlines and ensures you submit complete applications.
Prepare a Master Application Pack
Most bursaries require similar documents. Prepare multiple certified copies of your ID, matric certificate, academic record, and proof of income. Write a template motivation letter that you can customise for each application. Having these ready saves time and ensures consistency across applications.
Application Timeline
- August-September: Research available bursaries. Create your tracker spreadsheet. Start gathering documents.
- October-November: Most bursary applications open. Submit as early as possible — some bursaries are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.
- December-January: Follow up on submitted applications. Check your email regularly for interview invitations or requests for additional information.
- February-March: Bursary outcomes are usually communicated. Accept or decline offers. Arrange alternative funding if unsuccessful.
Remember that accepting a bursary creates obligations. Read the terms and conditions carefully — some bursaries require maintaining a minimum academic average, completing your qualification within a specified timeframe, or working for the sponsor after graduation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Options include NSFAS, Funza Lushaka (teaching), SETA bursaries, corporate bursaries (Sasol, Eskom, Standard Bank, etc.), government department bursaries, and UNISA merit scholarships.
Most bursary applications open August-October of the year before study. Apply as early as possible — many bursaries are competitive with limited funding. Apply for multiple bursaries simultaneously.
Yes, many employers offer tuition reimbursement or study bursaries. SETAs also fund employed students studying qualifications aligned to their industry sector.
Coverage varies: some cover tuition only, others include books, accommodation, and living allowances. NSFAS and Funza Lushaka are among the most comprehensive, covering all study costs.
Scholarships and grants do not need repayment. Some bursaries have service obligations (e.g., Funza Lushaka requires teaching in public schools). NSFAS has a loan/bursary component depending on your results.
Related UNISA Guides
- UNISA Status Checker — check your application status
- UNISA Courses List — browse all qualifications
- Fees Calculator — estimate costs
- How to Apply to UNISA — application guide
- Registration Guide — step-by-step registration
Frequently Asked Questions
Options include NSFAS, Funza Lushaka (teaching), SETA bursaries, corporate bursaries (Sasol, Eskom, Standard Bank, etc.), government department bursaries, and UNISA merit scholarships.
Most bursary applications open August-October of the year before study. Apply as early as possible — many bursaries are competitive with limited funding. Apply for multiple bursaries simultaneously.
Yes, many employers offer tuition reimbursement or study bursaries. SETAs also fund employed students studying qualifications aligned to their industry sector.
Coverage varies: some cover tuition only, others include books, accommodation, and living allowances. NSFAS and Funza Lushaka are among the most comprehensive, covering all study costs.
Scholarships and grants do not need repayment. Some bursaries have service obligations (e.g., Funza Lushaka requires teaching in public schools). NSFAS has a loan/bursary component depending on your results.