If you need financial help to start university this year, the Motsepe Foundation Bursary Programme for 2027 could be the answer you’ve been waiting for.
What the opportunity is
The Motsepe Foundation offers bursaries to South African students who have strong academic records but lack the funds for tertiary education. The programme supports a wide range of study areas, including Agriculture, Commerce, Computer Science & IT, Engineering, Humanities, Media and Arts.
Who can apply (eligibility)
- Citizenship: South African
- Academic performance: Minimum 70 % average in Matric (Life Orientation excluded)
- Financial need: Must be demonstrated with supporting documents
- Study level: Tertiary (undergraduate) programmes in the approved fields
- Fields of study: Agriculture, Commerce, Computer Science & IT, Engineering, Humanities, Media & Arts (also related areas such as Business Studies, Mathematics, Science, Medical Studies)
What you gain
- Full tuition fees (and possibly accommodation and books) for the duration of the approved programme.
- Opportunity to study at a recognised South African university without financial burden.
- Support from a foundation that values education, community development and the African principle of ubuntu.
- Networking possibilities with other bursary recipients and alumni.
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Visit the Motsepe Foundation website and download the current 2027 bursary application form.
- Complete every section of the form accurately. Double‑check personal details, ID number and contact information.
- Gather the required supporting documents (see list below).
- Email the completed form and all attachments to bursaries@motsepefoundation.org. Follow any additional instructions on the form regarding subject line or file naming.
- Keep a copy of everything you send for your records.
Documents you will need
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Certified copies of your parent(s) or guardian(s) ID(s).
- Certified copy of Matric results (mid‑year results if you are still in Grade 12, otherwise the final Matric certificate).
- University acceptance letter (or offer letter) for the chosen programme.
- If you are already studying: certified full academic record from your current institution.
- Proof of household income – recent payslips, employment letters, SASSA grant letters, affidavits for informal income, death certificates where applicable, or any other evidence requested on the application form.
- Any additional documentation noted on the official form for special household circumstances.
Tips to improve your chances (SETSA SA guidance)
- Start collecting financial documents early – some may need certification or an affidavit.
- Make sure every document is legible and clearly labelled.
- Do not rely on the bursary as your only source of funding; continue applying for NSFAS and other legitimate bursaries.
- Check that your chosen programme matches exactly the fields listed on the 2027 form.
- Proofread the entire application package before emailing; a single missing item can lead to rejection.
- Keep a backup folder (digital or physical) with all your IDs, results, income proofs and university correspondence.
Final thoughts and next steps
The Motsepe Foundation Bursary Programme 2027 is a valuable chance for students who meet the 70 % Matric benchmark and can prove genuine financial need. Begin gathering your documents now, fill out the official form carefully, and submit it before the deadline stated on the form.
Remember, university admission does not guarantee a bursary, and meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee funding. Apply to several funding sources to maximise your chances of securing the support you need.
Frequently asked questions
Who can apply?
South African citizens who meet the academic, financial‑need and field‑of‑study requirements.
What Matric average is required?
A minimum of 70 % in Matric, excluding Life Orientation.
Can Grade 12 learners apply?
Yes. They must submit mid‑year Matric results and meet all other criteria.
Can current university students apply?
Yes, provided they submit a full academic record and meet the field‑of‑study requirements.
Which courses are funded?
Agriculture, Commerce, Computer Science & IT, Engineering, Humanities, Media & Arts, plus related disciplines such as Business Studies, Mathematics, Science and Medical Studies.
Do I need to prove financial need?
Yes – include income evidence as outlined above.
Do I need a university acceptance letter?
Yes, it is a required supporting document.
Where do I send my application?
To bursaries@motsepefoundation.org, after confirming the address on the 2027 form.
Does meeting the criteria guarantee a bursary?
No. It only makes you eligible to apply.
Should I still apply for NSFAS?
Absolutely – apply for all legitimate funding options that you qualify for.
What happens if my application is incomplete?
The bursary committee may reject it. Double‑check every requirement before sending.
What if my course isn’t listed?
Contact the Motsepe Foundation directly or check the latest application form for clarification.
Disclaimer
This article is based on information provided by the Motsepe Foundation. Application requirements, deadlines and funding details may change. Always verify the latest 2027 application form, closing date and submission instructions directly with the Motsepe Foundation before sending any personal documents.
SETA SA does not award this bursary and cannot guarantee selection or funding.
