Students from specific Northern Cape communities have a time‑limited chance to fund their 2027 post‑matric studies. The deadline is only a few weeks away, so act now.
What the opportunity is
The SIOC Community Development Trust (SIOC‑CDT) Bursary Programme for 2027 supports learners who want to study at a public higher‑education institution in South Africa. The bursary pays for most expenses that students normally have to cover themselves.
Who can apply (eligibility)
To qualify, you must meet all of the following conditions:
- Live in, or be originally from, one of these beneficiary communities: Gamagara, Ga‑Segonyana, Joe Morolong, Tsantsabane or Thabazimbi.
- Be 35 years old or younger on the closing date (30 November 2026).
- Have been accepted or provisionally accepted for a 2027 programme at a recognised public university or TVET college.
- Show a household income of R600 000 or less per year.
- Have achieved at least a 65 % average in the National Senior Certificate.
- People with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
What you will receive
The bursary covers the following items (where applicable):
- Registration and tuition fees.
- Student accommodation.
- Prescribed study material.
- A one‑off laptop.
- A monthly stipend (amount will be set in the bursary agreement).
- Assistive devices for students with disabilities.
How to apply – step by step
- Gather the required documents (see the list below).
- Choose your preferred application method:
- Online: complete the form at the official portal – Apply online for the SIOC‑CDT Bursary 2027.
- Manual: download the application form, fill it in, and hand‑deliver it to one of the offices listed below.
- Submit the completed form together with all supporting paperwork before 12:00 midday on 30 November 2026.
Documents you need
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Certified copy of your latest Matric results (or year‑two university results if you are applying for a later year).
- Proof of acceptance or provisional acceptance at a public university or TVET college.
- Recent proof of residence (no older than three months).
- Proof of household income (pay‑slips, affidavit of unemployment, or SASSA grant certificate where applicable).
- Three months of recent bank statements.
- Medical certificate confirming any disability (if applicable).
Manual application addresses
- Kathu office: SIOC‑CDT Office Park, Block A, Ground Floor, Corner Hendrick Van Eck and Ian Fleming Road, Kathu, 8446.
- Thabazimbi office: SIOC‑CDT Thabazimbi Business Hub, 11 Jourdain Street, Mollies Building, Thabazimbi, 0380.
Tips to improve your chances
- Start collecting documents now – waiting until the deadline can cause delays.
- Verify that your chosen programme meets the university’s admission requirements (subject scores, APS, etc.) as well as the bursary’s criteria.
- Use the SETA SA Career & Qualification Explorer to match your career interests with SAQA‑registered qualifications.
- Check the SETA SA University Explorer and TVET College Explorer for programme details, entry requirements and application dates.
- Consider applying for other funding sources (other bursaries, learnerships, apprenticeships) because receiving this bursary is not guaranteed.
Next steps
If you belong to one of the listed communities and meet the age, academic and income thresholds, begin preparing your documents today. Research the exact qualification you want, compare universities or TVET colleges, and then submit your application before the 30 November deadline.
Frequently asked questions
- Who can apply? Anyone from Gamagara, Ga‑Segonyana, Joe Morolong, Tsantsabane or Thabazimbi who meets the other criteria.
- What is the age limit? You must be 35 years or younger on 30 November 2026.
- What academic result is required? A minimum of 65 % average in the NSC.
- What is the household income ceiling? R600 000 per year.
- Can postgraduate students apply? Yes, if they need financial help and meet all other requirements.
- What does the bursary cover? Tuition, accommodation, study material, a laptop, a monthly stipend and assistive devices for disabilities.
- Are people with disabilities eligible? Yes, they are strongly encouraged to apply.
- When is the deadline? 12:00 midday, Monday 30 November 2026.
- Where can I apply online? Use the official online form linked above.
Disclaimer
This article is an informational guide based on the official SIOC‑CDT Bursary Programme 2027 advertisement. The information is provided for guidance only. Applicants must rely on the official SIOC‑CDT documents and website for the final application requirements. Never pay anyone who claims to guarantee a bursary or university placement.
