Free State Bursary 2026 – A Chance to Study for Free
The Free State Provincial Government invites eligible young people to apply for the 2026 Full‑Time Bursary Programme. The closing date for applications is 16 January 2026 at 16:00.
Why You Should Read This
If you live in the Free State, have big dreams of going to university or a TVET college, and feel worried about money, this bursary could be the answer. It pays for your whole course, from registration to books, so you can focus on studying instead of bills.
Quick Facts About the Bursary
| What You Need to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Who can apply? | South African citizens, residents of the Free State, unemployed youth aged 18–35. |
| What fields are covered? | 30+ critical skills – from Nursing and Engineering to IT, Data Science, Agriculture and more. |
| What is paid for? | Registration fees, tuition, accommodation, meals, books, study materials and special equipment. |
| Household income limit | Less than R600 000 per year. |
| Closing date | 16 January 2026, 16:00. |
| How to submit? | Drop your documents at 124 Nelson Mandela Drive (Brahman Building) or any Thusong Centre. |
| Contact email | bursariesfs@fspremier.gov.za |
What the Bursary Aims To Do
The Office of the Premier started this programme to:
- Fill skill gaps in the province – jobs that are in short supply.
- Help students who need money and are top performers.
- Support those who have no other sponsorship.
Because the province decides how many bursaries it can give each year, applying early gives you a better chance.
Eligibility Checklist
- South African citizen – you must have a valid ID.
- Free State resident – show a municipal account or affidavit.
- Age 18–35 – only unemployed youth in this range.
- Family income under R600 000 – prove this with salary advice, SARS forms, or SASSA proof.
- No other bursaries – you cannot have an NSFAS or another sponsorship.
- Accepted or studying at an accredited university or TVET college – attach your acceptance letter.
- Academic proof – Grade 12 results for students, recent transcripts for university students.
- Disabled applicants welcome – bring a letter from your school’s disability office if you need extra help.
Missing any of these will mean your application is not considered.
Study Areas Covered (33 Priority Fields)
Health & Medical Sciences
- Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Radiography, Nuclear Medicine, Dietetics, Orthotics, Emergency Care
Engineering & Built Environment
- Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical, Mining, Nuclear, Architectural Engineering, Mechatronics, Construction Management, GIS, Disaster Management, Occupational Safety
Information Technology & Digital Skills
- Cyber Security, Software Development, Network Systems, AI, Robotics, Data Science, Business Analytics
Human & Social Sciences
- Social Work, Psychology, Community Development, Marketing, General Arts
Education
- Maths, Natural Sciences, Accounting, Early Childhood Development
Commerce & Finance
- Actuarial Science, Economics, Development Studies, Finance, Supply Chain, Audit, Risk Management, Investment
Agriculture
- Agriculture, Veterinary Science, Soil Science, Pasture Science
These are the most in‑demand jobs in the province right now.
What the Money Covers
- Registration fees
- Tuition
- On‑campus or approved accommodation
- Meals
- Books and study supplies
- Special equipment for your course (e.g., lab gear, software licenses)
- Assistive devices for disabled students, if needed
You can study without worrying about money.
Documents You Must Send
| Document | What it proves | Where to get it |
|---|---|---|
| ID (certified) | Who you are | Government office |
| Matric results / transcript | Your grades | School/University |
| Acceptance letter | You’re in a course | College/University |
| Proof of residence | You live in the Free State | Municipality or affidavit |
| Proof of income (salary, SARS, SASSA) | Family income < R600 000 | Employer or tax office |
| Bank statements (3 months) | Current finances | Bank |
| Affidavits | Unemployment, single parenthood, guardianship | Notary |
| Death certificates (if orphaned) | Family situation | Registrar |
| CIPC and tax for self‑employed parents | Parent’s business income | CIPC office |
| Curriculum plan | Course details | University |
| Bank confirmation of parent account | Parent’s financial status | Bank |
| NSFAS status (if applicable) | Existing sponsorship | NSFAS |
| Signed declaration | Agreement to terms | Application form |
All documents must be certified. An incomplete application is automatically rejected.
How to Apply – Step‑by‑Step
Get the application form
- Pick it up from the Office of the Premier, Thusong Centres, or the Free State Government Facebook page.
- You can also download it online from the official site.
Prepare your paperwork
- Make sure every page is certified and up to date.
Submit in person
- Deliver the completed form and all documents to:
124 Nelson Mandela Drive, Westdene, Bloemfontein (Brahman Building)
or at any Thusong Centre.
- Deliver the completed form and all documents to:
Wait for a decision
- If you haven’t heard back within 4 months, consider the application unsuccessful.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Apply early – Bursaries fill up fast as the deadline approaches.
- Certify everything – Uncertified or expired paperwork will get you disqualified.
- Choose a field that suits you – Pick a skill you already enjoy or are good at.
- Write a strong motivation letter – Explain why you chose the course, your financial need, long‑term goals, and how you will help your community.
- Keep copies – Store copies of all documents for future reference.
- Use online tools – Tools like a scholarship letter generator or a career personality test can help you prepare better.
What Happens After You Get the Bursary
With funding secured, you’ll have a clear path to a high‑demand career:
- Medical Doctor, Nurse, Pharmacist, Radiographer
- Civil/Mechanical/Electrical Engineer
- Data Scientist, Cyber Security Specialist, AI Engineer
- Teacher in Maths, Science, Accounting, or Early Childhood Development
- Town Planner, GIS Specialist, Quantity Surveyor
- Actuary, Economist, Auditor, Investment Analyst
- Agricultural Scientist or Veterinarian
Because the bursary targets scarce skills, graduates often get jobs quickly, and some may even land internships in provincial departments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply while already studying?
Yes, if you are full‑time and meet all other requirements.Do I need to stop NSFAS if I already have it?
No – you cannot have another sponsor.Do documents need to be certified?
Yes, every required document must be a certified copy.What if my parents are unemployed?
Submit an affidavit, a 6‑month bank statement, and a SARS ITR12 form.Is off‑campus housing covered?
Only if recommended by your HEI and approved by the bursary office.Can I switch courses after receiving the bursary?
Only if the new course shares major modules and you get approval.When will I hear back?
Up to 4 months after the closing date.Can I work during my studies?
No – full‑time work is not allowed while you’re a bursary student.Are disabled students supported?
Yes, assistive devices may be funded on a case‑by‑case basis.Is the bursary renewable?
Yes, as long as you pass your courses and meet all contractual conditions.
Closing Date Reminder
Applications close on 16 January 2026 at 16:00.
Act now – this could be your chance to study for free and build a bright future.
Important Notice
This guide is based on the official bursary document from the Office of the Premier. The information may change, so always double‑check with the Free State Bursary Office or email bursariesfs@fspremier.gov.za for the latest details. All responsibility for submitting a correct and on‑time application lies with the applicant.
