The Free State Provincial Government invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their 2026 Full‑Time Bursary Program. The closing date for applications is 16 January 2026.
If you’re a young person in the Free State dreaming of university or TVET college but worried about money, this is your chance to make that dream real.
Quick Facts About the Bursary
| What You Need to Know | Details |
|---|---|
| Who can apply? | South African citizens, Free State residents, unemployed people aged 18‑35 |
| Study areas covered | Over 30 essential and high‑demand fields – from nursing and engineering to data science and agriculture |
| What the money will pay for | Registration, tuition, accommodation, meals, books, study tools, and special gear |
| Income limit | Household earnings below R600,000 a year |
| Application deadline | 16 January 2026 at 16:00 |
| How to submit | Bring your papers to 124 Nelson Mandela Drive (Brahman Building) or any Thusong Centre |
| Contact | bursariesfs@fspremier.gov.za |
What the Bursary Is All About
The Free State Provincial Government’s bursary program is a big effort to help young people study full time at a recognised university or TVET college. It focuses on skills that the province needs most right now, like healthcare, engineering, IT, and farming. By paying for education, the bursary aims to grow the local economy, improve public services, and give you good job prospects.
Who’s the target?
- Students who need money.
- High‑performing learners who could do great things.
- Anyone who hasn’t found another scholarship or sponsorship.
The number of bursaries each year depends on the budget, so apply as early as possible.
Who Should Apply? (Eligibility Checklist)
- South African citizen – only South Africans can use this bursary.
- Live in the Free State – you must prove it with a municipal statement or an affidavit.
- Age 18‑35 – the program is for unemployed youth in this age range.
- Household income below R600,000 per year – show proof with pay slips, tax returns, or a SASSA statement.
- No other bursary – you can’t have a different funding source.
- Accepted or enrolled at an accredited HEI – attach your acceptance letter or registration proof.
- Academic record –
- Grade 12 learners: September results.
- University students: a recent transcript.
- Strong academics and financial need get priority.
- Persons with disabilities – you can still apply; the program may provide extra support if needed.
Fields of Study You Can Get Money For
The bursary covers 33 priority subjects. Below are some of the most important ones:
| Health & Medical | Engineering & Built Environment | IT & Digital |
|---|---|---|
| Medicine (MBChB) | Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical | Cyber Security |
| Nursing | Mining, Nuclear, Architectural | Software Development |
| Pharmacy | Mechatronics | Data Science, AI |
| Physiotherapy | Structural, Quantity Surveying | Robotics |
| Human & Social Sciences | Education | Commerce & Finance | Agriculture |
|---|---|---|---|
| Social Work | Maths | Actuarial Science | Agriculture |
| Psychology | Natural Sciences | Economics | Veterinary Science |
| Community Development | Accounting | Finance | Soil Science |
| Publicity & Marketing | Early Childhood Development | Supply Chain | Pasture Science |
This list is one of the most complete provincial bursaries in South Africa.
What the Money Covers
The bursary is a full financial package that includes:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- On‑campus or approved housing
- Meals
- Books and study supplies
- Special equipment for your course
- Extra gear for disabled students (if needed)
You’ll be able to focus on learning without worrying about money.
Documents You Must Submit
Make sure every file is certified and current.
- Certified ID copy
- Certified Grade 12 results or university transcript
- Acceptance letter from the university/TVET college
- Proof of residence (e.g., municipal bill)
- Income proof (salary slip, tax return, or SASSA statement)
- Three‑month bank statements
- Proof of disability (if applicable)
- Affidavits for unemployment, single parenting, or guardianship
- Death certificates if you’re an orphan
- CIPC documents and tax certificates for self‑employed parents
- Study plan or curriculum outline
- Bank confirmation of parental account status
- Proof of NSFAS status (if you have one)
- Signed declaration
Tip: If any document is missing or not certified, your application will be rejected.
How to Apply
Get the application form – pick it up from:
- Office of the Premier (FSTDI & OR Tambo Building)
- Thusong Centres
- Free State Government Facebook page
- University of the Free State / Central University of Technology
Prepare all documents – double‑check that they’re certified.
Hand‑deliver your application to 124 Nelson Mandela Drive (Brahman Building) or any Thusong Centre.
Wait for a reply – if you haven’t heard in 4 months, you may need to start a new application.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Apply early – the deadline is tight, and many people will finish at the last minute.
- Make every document certified – otherwise you’ll be automatically rejected.
- Choose a skill you love – pick a subject that matches your interests and strengths, not just the ones that are funded.
- Write a strong motivation letter – explain why you want this course, your financial need, future goals, and how you’ll help your community.
- Keep copies of everything – you might need them later.
- Use tools to prepare – for example, a scholarship letter template, a career personality test, or a TVET college eligibility checker.
After You Get the Bursary
A bursary can open doors to high‑demand jobs like:
- Doctor, nurse, pharmacist, radiographer
- Civil, mechanical, electrical engineer
- Data scientist, cyber‑security specialist, AI engineer
- Teacher (maths, science, accounting, early childhood)
- Town planner, GIS specialist, quantity surveyor
- Actuary, economist, auditor, investment analyst
- Agricultural scientist or veterinarian
Because the bursary focuses on scarce skills, you’re more likely to find a job quickly, and you might even get an internship with a provincial department.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I’m already studying?
Yes, as long as you’re a full‑time student and meet all other conditions.Do I need to have NSFAS to apply?
No – having another sponsor like NSFAS disqualifies you automatically.Must documents be certified?
Yes, every required document must be certified.What if my parents are unemployed?
Submit an affidavit, a 6‑month bank statement, and a SARS ITR12.Does the bursary pay for off‑campus accommodation?
Only if the HEI recommends it and the bursary office approves.Can I change my course after receiving funding?
Only if the new course shares major modules and the bursary office approves.How long until I hear back?
Up to 4 months after the closing date.Can I work while studying?
No – full‑time work is not allowed during studies.Are disabled applicants supported?
Yes – you may receive special equipment or assistance.Is the bursary renewable each year?
Yes, if you pass your courses and keep up with all obligations.
Closing Date: 16 January 2026
Need the latest details?
Check the official bursary website or email bursariesfs@fspremier.gov.za. All information here is taken directly from the government’s official documents. Details may change, so always verify with the official source before you submit your application.
