New Bursaries – In a bold and uplifting move for South African youth, the provincial governments of Limpopo, Eastern Cape (EC), and Northern Cape have officially launched new bursary programs starting October 2025. These bursaries come as a game-changer for students from disadvantaged backgrounds, offering not only full tuition coverage but also free laptops and monthly allowances to ensure academic stability. The bursary schemes are targeted at matriculants and current students pursuing qualifications in key sectors such as health sciences, education, engineering, IT, and agriculture. With application windows now open, eligible students are being urged to apply quickly before deadlines close. Authorities from all three provinces confirmed that this initiative is part of the broader national goal to enhance youth empowerment, skills development, and employment. Amid rising costs of education and increasing dropout rates due to financial stress, these bursary programs arrive at a critical time. By covering the full tuition fees, residence costs, study material, a new laptop, and offering monthly stipends of up to R3,500 — the provinces hope to eliminate the financial burden that prevents many talented students from completing their studies. Below is a complete breakdown of the bursary benefits, eligibility criteria, priority courses, required documentation, and how to apply for each province.
Key Highlights of Limpopo, EC, and N Cape New Bursaries
These new bursary programs are tailored to empower students across poor and rural communities.
- Available in Limpopo, Eastern Cape, and Northern Cape
- Covers 100% of tuition fees at accredited institutions
- Provides a free laptop upon acceptance
- Monthly allowance/stipend of R2,500 to R3,500
- Free accommodation or accommodation allowance
- Open to Matric 2024 learners and current university/TVET students
- Priority for students in scarce-skill sectors
Who Can Apply for New Bursaries? Eligibility Criteria for 2025
Each province has outlined strict but inclusive eligibility rules to ensure that the bursaries reach the truly deserving.
- Must be a South African citizen with a valid ID
- Permanent resident of Limpopo, EC, or Northern Cape
- Matriculated in 2024 or currently studying in university/TVET
- Must have passed all subjects (Minimum Bachelor Pass for university)
- Combined household income should not exceed R350,000 per annum
- Preference given to students from rural, disadvantaged backgrounds
Courses Covered Under These Bursaries
The bursaries prioritize fields where South Africa has a skills shortage. Below is a list of approved fields of study:
List of Priority Courses
- Nursing and Health Sciences
- Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, etc.)
- Information Technology & Computer Science
- Agriculture and Environmental Studies
- Education (Maths, Science & Foundation Phase)
- Finance and Accounting
- Social Work and Psychology
- Law and Public Administration
Sector-Wise Funding Coverage
| Sector | Covered Expenses | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Health Sciences | Tuition, Laptop, Monthly Stipend | Must agree to work in province post-grad |
| Engineering | Tuition, Laptop, Stipend | Preference to rural students |
| IT & Computer Science | Tuition, Device, Data Allowance | Remote study support also available |
| Agriculture | Full Tuition, Study Material | Includes tools for practical learning |
| Education | All costs covered + teaching kit | Internship support during studies |
| Finance & Accounting | Tuition, Laptop, Transport Allowance | Mentorship with finance dept. |
| Social Work/Psychology | Fees, Accommodation, Travel | For students aiming at govt clinics |
| Law & Public Admin | Tuition, Device, Books | Practical exposure in courts/government |
How to Apply – Step-by-Step Process for Each Province
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to apply for each provincial bursary. Make sure you apply before the application closing dates.
Limpopo Bursary Application
- Visit: www.limpopobursary.gov.za
- Download the application form or apply online
- Submit copies of:
- Certified ID
- Matric results or academic transcript
- Proof of residence
- Parent/guardian income proof
- Motivation letter (250 words)
- Closing Date: 31 October 2025
- Contact: 015 287 6000 | Email: [email protected]
Eastern Cape Bursary Application
- Visit: www.ecdoe.gov.za/bursaries
- Complete online form or collect from Department offices
- Required documents:
- SA ID copy
- Matric/academic results
- Residential proof (ward councilor letter)
- Income affidavit
- CV and motivational letter
- Closing Date: 30 October 2025
- Contact: 040 608 4000 | Email: [email protected]
Northern Cape Bursary Application
- Website: www.northerncape.gov.za/bursary
- Apply online or via postal submission
- Required attachments:
- Certified ID
- Matric certificate
- Tertiary acceptance letter (if applicable)
- Household income documents
- Closing Date: 28 October 2025
- Contact: 053 838 2500 | Email: [email protected]
Required Documents Checklist
To avoid disqualification, ensure the following documents are submitted:
- Certified copy of South African ID (not older than 3 months)
- Certified copy of Matric certificate or latest academic results
- Proof of residence from local authority
- Parent or guardian income proof (salary slip/SASSA card)
- Motivational letter explaining why you need the bursary
- Proof of registration or provisional acceptance (if applicable)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Impact | How to Avoid |
|---|---|---|
| Submitting late application | Automatic disqualification | Apply at least 1 week early |
| Missing documents | Application marked incomplete | Use a checklist before submission |
| Submitting unclear ID copies | Delayed verification | Scan or re-certify ID copy |
| Not signing forms | Application invalid | Check signature on all pages |
| Using fake income documents | Blacklisting from future schemes | Always submit verified info |
| No motivation letter | Low chance of shortlisting | Write short but genuine story |
| Wrong email or postal address | No communication from department | Double-check contact info before submitting |
Departmental Contacts for Clarification
If you need assistance with your application, you can reach out to the bursary offices of each province:
Limpopo Department of Education
- Address: 113 Biccard Street, Polokwane
- Phone: 015 287 6000
- Email: [email protected]
Eastern Cape Department of Education
- Address: Steve Vukile Tshwete Complex, Zwelitsha
- Phone: 040 608 4000
- Email: [email protected]
Northern Cape Department of Education
- Address: 156 Du Toitspan Road, Kimberley
- Phone: 053 838 2500
- Email: [email protected]
What Happens After You Get Selected?
Once shortlisted, students will go through a verification and interview process. After final confirmation:
- You’ll receive an official bursary award letter
- A laptop will be issued within 3–4 weeks
- Monthly allowance payments will start with registration proof
- You must sign a bursary agreement to serve your province post-graduation (in some fields)
Post-Selection Timeline
| Activity | Timeframe | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Shortlisting | Within 2–3 weeks | Based on academic + income criteria |
| Interview | Early November 2025 | May be physical or virtual |
| Final Approval | Mid-November 2025 | Confirmation via email/SMS |
| Laptop Distribution | End November 2025 | Collected from regional offices |
| Allowance First Payment | January 2026 | On proof of registration |
| Monitoring & Evaluation | Every 6 months | Academic progress check |
| Bursary Contract Period | Duration of studies | Renewable each year |
| Post-Study Service Obligation | 1–3 years (varies) | Only for critical skill bursaries |
These bursary opportunities could change your future—don’t miss out. Apply on time, submit the correct documents, and take the first step toward a debt-free education.
FAQs – Bursary Program 2025
Q1. Can I apply for more than one provincial bursary?
No. You can only apply for the province where you permanently reside.
Q2. Do I need university acceptance before applying?
It is recommended but not mandatory. However, having a provisional acceptance helps.
Q3. Will this bursary cover private college fees?
No. Only public universities and TVET colleges are eligible.
Q4. Can I get a bursary if I’m already in second year?
Yes, continuing students are also eligible if they meet the income and academic requirements.
Q5. Will NSFAS funding affect my bursary eligibility?
Yes. You cannot receive both NSFAS and this bursary at the same time.