Dreaming of a Computer Science degree but worried about money? The Mezzanine Bursary Programme 2026 can turn that dream into reality. It’s a merit‑based scholarship that covers tuition and university accommodation for first‑year CS students in the Western Cape who can’t afford to study.
What the Mezzanine Bursary Offers
The bursary is designed for students who want to study Computer Science at an accredited university in the Western Cape. It pays for tuition fees and university accommodation. In addition, it gives you:
- Job shadowing with Mezzanine staff
- Networking events with tech professionals
- Hands‑on exposure to real technology projects
- Career development guidance
These extras help boost your employability once you graduate.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify you must meet all of the following:
- South African citizen by birth
- Live in the Western Cape
- Be unemployed
- Have a Grade 12 average of at least 65 %
- Be enrolled as a first‑year undergraduate student
- Be studying Computer Science
- Be registered at a recognised and accredited university in the Western Cape
- Not receive another bursary for the same academic year
- Have no criminal record
- Have a clear credit record
Missing even one requirement means your application will not be considered.
What You Gain
Beyond the financial help, you’ll:
- Build a strong network in the tech industry
- Learn about real projects that tech companies are working on
- Receive mentorship that can guide you into a high‑growth career such as software development, data science, cybersecurity, AI, cloud computing, and more
- Open doors to future internships, job shadowing, and potential job offers
These opportunities make a Computer Science degree one of the most future‑proof choices you can make.
How to Apply
- Confirm you meet every eligibility criterion. If you’re unsure, ask a guidance counsellor or contact a university adviser.
- Start your application. Click the “Apply to Position” button on the official portal: Apply for the Mezzanine Bursary Programme 2026 here.
- Upload the required documents:
- Updated CV
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate
- Motivational letter explaining why you deserve the bursary
- Proof of university registration or acceptance
- Latest university fee statement or quotation
- Proof of household income: either the last three months’ payslips of parent(s)/guardian(s) or an affidavit confirming unemployment
- Wait for feedback. After the closing date (31 March 2026), applications will be reviewed. Shortlisted candidates may be asked for more information. If you don’t hear back within 30 days after the deadline, your application was likely unsuccessful.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
Many applicants struggle with a weak motivational letter. From experience, the best ones:
- Explain why you want to study Computer Science.
- Describe your long‑term career goals.
- Show a clear picture of your financial situation.
- Explain how the bursary will change your life.
Show your passion for tech by listing:
- Personal coding projects
- Online programming courses you’ve completed
- Participation in competitions or hackathons
- Membership in coding clubs or tech communities
And remember: apply to multiple bursaries to improve your odds.
Next Steps
If you meet the criteria, don’t wait. Submit your application before 31 March 2026 and include all documents. This bursary could be the key to a bright tech career in South Africa and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who can apply? South African citizens studying Computer Science at a recognised Western Cape university, meeting the academic and financial requirements.
- Can second‑year students apply? No. Only first‑year students are eligible.
- Can students outside the Western Cape apply? No. Applicants must be located in the Western Cape.
- Does the bursary cover living expenses? It covers tuition and university accommodation.
- Can I apply if I already have another bursary? No, you must not be receiving another bursary for the same academic year.
- What happens after applying? Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for additional information or verification.
Closing date: 31 March 2026. Apply early to avoid technical hiccups or incomplete submissions.
