Right now, thousands of young people in the Free State are looking for a way to fund their studies for 2027. The Free State Provincial Government Full Time Bursary Programme could be the answer, but you must act before the deadline.
What is the bursary?
The Free State Office of the Premier is offering a full‑time bursary for the 2027 academic year. It is aimed at unemployed youth who want to study for a diploma or degree at a recognised university or university of technology.
Who can apply?
- South African citizen, living in the Free State.
- Age between 18 and 35 years.
- Unemployed at the time of application.
- Currently in Grade 12 or already accepted/enrolled at a recognised higher‑education institution.
- Studying towards a diploma or degree in one of the priority fields (see below).
- Not receiving any other form of government funding.
- Preference may be given to previously disadvantaged applicants.
What does the bursary cover?
- Tuition fees.
- Accommodation (where applicable).
- Prescribed textbooks and learning devices (where applicable).
- Meals.
- Transport (where applicable).
- A monthly living allowance (where applicable).
“Where applicable” means the exact amount you receive will be decided when your award is issued.
Priority fields of study
The bursary focuses on areas where the province has skills shortages:
- STEM – science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
- Commerce‑related studies (business management, marketing, supply‑chain, etc.).
- Finance, economics and accounting.
- Psychology.
- Social sciences.
- Aviation – including technical and management roles.
- Bachelor of Administration, public governance and developmental studies.
How to apply – step by step
- Confirm that your chosen career matches one of the priority fields.
- Make sure your chosen institution is a recognised university or university of technology in South Africa.
- Gather all required documents (ID, proof of residence, academic certificates, proof of unemployment, etc.).
- Visit the official application portal and create an account.
- Fill in the online form carefully and upload every document.
- Review all entries, then submit before 13 November 2026 at 16:00.
- Save the confirmation number or screenshot as proof of submission.
Apply here: Free State Provincial Government online bursary application
Tips to improve your chances
- Read the official advertisement thoroughly – the bursary will not accept incomplete applications.
- Double‑check that all scans are clear and information matches across documents.
- Write a brief personal statement that explains why you chose the priority field and how you will contribute to the Free State.
- Do not wait for the bursary decision before submitting your university application.
- Apply for other funding sources (such as NSFAS) if you meet the criteria, but be honest about any existing government funding.
Next steps after you apply
If you are selected, you will receive an award letter that outlines the exact amounts you will receive for tuition, accommodation, allowances, etc. The province also offers a Student Liaison and Support Unit to help with academic and personal challenges during your studies.
Contact details
Email: bursariesfs@fspremier.gov.za
Phone: 065 742 5935 / 060 533 4702
Frequently asked questions
- Is the bursary open for 2027? Yes, applications are being accepted now.
- Who may apply? Unemployed South African youth, 18‑35, resident in the Free State, meeting the study and eligibility criteria.
- Can Grade 12 learners apply? Yes, current Grade 12 students are included.
- Can students already enrolled at university apply? Yes, provided they meet all other conditions.
- Which qualifications are funded? Any recognised diploma or degree in the listed priority fields.
- Is accommodation covered? It may be covered, depending on individual assessment.
- Is there a monthly allowance? A living allowance may be provided where applicable.
- Can I receive this bursary together with NSFAS? No – the bursary requires that you are not receiving any other government funding.
- When does the application close? 13 November 2026 at 16:00.
- Where do I submit my application? Use the official online portal linked above.
- Who can I contact for more information? The email and phone numbers listed in the “Contact details” section.
Final thought
Don’t let the deadline slip by. Start today by checking your eligibility, gathering documents, and submitting a complete application. Even if you don’t receive this bursary, the process will give you valuable experience for future funding opportunities.
