Funding Your Studies in South Africa: NSFAS, Bursaries and Other Options
Students may fund studies through different routes. Government guidance points to NSFAS, government bursaries, universities, private providers and other funding sources depending on eligibility and need.
Last reviewed: 2026-09-20Source-led guide
Main funding routes
- NSFAS for eligible students at public universities and TVET colleges.
- Government department bursaries.
- Municipal bursaries.
- Company and professional-sector bursaries.
- University financial-aid and scholarship programmes.
- Education loans where appropriate.
Do not rely on one application
Where you qualify, apply to multiple legitimate funding programmes and keep a deadline tracker. Each provider has its own rules and application period.
Frequently asked questions
Does one bursary application cover all providers?
No. Most bursaries have their own application and selection process.
Sources and verification
Dates, eligibility, funding and application rules can change. Re-check the provider or government source before applying.