Vodacom External Bursary Programme is opening its doors for 2027. With tuition costs soaring, this bursary can remove the biggest financial barrier for high‑performing South African students who want to study in technology, engineering, science, business or innovation.
What the bursary is
The Vodacom External Bursary Programme 2027 funds full‑time undergraduate learners. It pays tuition, accommodation, textbooks and a meal allowance. In addition, bursars receive a laptop, a cellphone, wellness support and structured work‑experience opportunities. Applications close on 31 August 2026.
Who can apply
To be eligible you must meet all of the following:
- Citizenship: South African citizen by birth.
- Study level: Grade 12 learners (with university exemption) or first‑, second‑ or third‑year undergraduate students.
- Academic results:
- Grade 12: average of 70 % or higher.
- University students: minimum average of 65 %.
- Study mode: Full‑time at a recognised South African university.
- Fields of study: STEM (computer science, IT, data science, AI, engineering, mathematics, physics, etc.) and business/commercial subjects such as accounting, finance, economics, management, marketing and supply‑chain.
What you gain
Successful applicants receive:
- Full registration and tuition fees.
- University accommodation or a capped private‑housing allowance.
- Funding for prescribed textbooks and learning materials.
- A monthly meal allowance.
- A laptop and a cellphone for academic work.
- Orientation workshop to introduce program expectations and support services.
- Paid vacation work placements with Vodacom for real‑world experience.
- Work‑readiness training in the final year (interview skills, professional branding, workplace etiquette).
- Access to a wellness programme via Lyra Wellbeing Services (mental health resources, counselling, personal wellbeing tools).
How to apply – step by step
- Check your eligibility. Make sure you satisfy the citizenship, study‑level and academic‑performance criteria.
- Gather supporting documents. You will need:
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Grade 11/12 results or latest university transcript.
- Proof of university acceptance or registration (if you have it).
- Proof of residence.
- Any additional documents requested in the online form.
- Complete the online application. Use a desktop, laptop or tablet with Google Chrome for the best experience. Upload all required files, especially your latest transcript.
- Submit and wait for assessment. You will receive a confirmation email. The bursary team will review your file and contact you with feedback.
Tips to improve your chances
- Maintain or improve your academic average.
- Ensure every document is certified, clear and legible.
- Use a professional email address (e.g., your name).
- Fill out every section of the form – missing information can lead to disqualification.
- Apply well before the 31 August deadline.
- Double‑check all details and attachments before submission.
Final thoughts
The Vodacom External Bursary Programme is more than money; it offers tools, mentorship and work experience that can launch a successful career. If you meet the eligibility requirements, gather your documents early and submit a complete application before the deadline. Take this step now – it could shape your future in STEM or business.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When does the bursary close? 31 August 2026.
- Can Grade 12 learners apply? Yes, with university exemption and at least a 70 % average.
- Can university students apply? Yes, if they are full‑time undergraduates with a minimum 65 % average.
- Is accommodation covered? Yes, through university housing or a capped private‑housing allowance.
- Will I receive a laptop? Yes, every successful bursar gets a laptop.
- Is work experience included? Yes, via Vodacom’s vacation work programme.
- Is the bursary only for engineers? No, it also supports business and commercial degrees.
- Do I have to be a South African citizen? Yes, by birth.
Disclaimer
Edupstairs shares educational, bursary, internship, learnership and employment opportunities for informational purposes only. We are not the recruiting organisation and do not influence the selection process. Applicants should verify all information on the official Vodacom bursary application platform before applying.
EDUPSTAIRS IS A REGISTERED NON‑PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. EDUPSTAIRS DOES NOT, IN ANY WAY OR FORM, SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. PLEASE BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. USE THE EDUPSTAIRS SCAM DETECTOR TOOL TO SPOT A SCAM BEFORE YOU APPLY
