If you need financial help to start university in 2027, the Motsepe Foundation Bursary Programme could be the answer – but the deadline is fast approaching.
What is the Motsepe Foundation Bursary Programme 2027?
The Motsepe Foundation will fund eligible South African students who have good grades and can show financial need. The bursary covers selected fields in Science, Technology, Engineering, Accounting, Mathematics and Humanities (specifically Music and LLB). It is a full‑time tertiary‑education bursary for the 2027 academic year.
Who can apply?
- Academic result: You must have an average above 70 % when Life Orientation and Home Language are excluded.
- Financial need: You must provide proof of household income for your parents or legal guardians.
- Supported study fields: Science, Technology, Engineering, Accounting, Mathematics, Music or LLB.
- Geographical areas: Applicants must live in one of the following districts:
- Limpopo – Sekhukhune, Capricorn, Vhembe, Mopani
- Free State – Thabo Mofutsanyana, Mangaung
- KwaZulu‑Natal – Umgungundlovu, eThekwini, King Cetshwayo
- Eastern Cape – OR Tambo, Nelson Mandela Bay, Buffalo City
- Mpumalanga – Bushbuckridge, Mbombela, Kwamhlanga
- North West
- Gauteng – Tshwane, Ekurhuleni, Johannesburg, Sedibeng
- Western Cape – Khayelitsha, Mitchells Plain
- Northern Cape
What does the bursary cover?
- Registration and tuition fees
- University‑accredited accommodation
- Books, stationery and a laptop
- Meal allowance
- Tutor allowance
- Mental‑wellness support
How to apply – step by step
- Gather the required documents:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copies of your parents’/guardians’ IDs
- Certified copy of your latest academic transcript or results
- Proof of income for both parents/guardians (payslips, tax certificates, etc.)
- A testimonial letter from a school principal, religious leader or traditional leader
- Visit the official application page: Motsepe Foundation Bursary page.
- Create an account and fill in all personal details exactly as they appear on your documents.
- Upload each certified document. Check that text, stamps and signatures are clearly visible.
- Review your application thoroughly before submitting.
- Submit the application before the closing date.
Tips to improve your chances
- Calculate your average without Life Orientation and Home Language; use the official results sheet.
- Start gathering documents at least a month early – testimonial letters often take time.
- Confirm that your chosen qualification matches one of the supported fields (e.g., “BSc Chemistry” is accepted, but “Environmental Science” may need verification).
- Check university admission requirements separately; the bursary does not guarantee entry into a programme.
- Apply for other funding sources (e.g., NSFAS) while waiting for a decision.
Next steps
Mark your calendar – the application window closes on 16 October 2026. Do not wait until the last day to collect documents or request a testimonial letter. After you submit, focus on completing your university applications and any other bursary or scholarship forms you qualify for.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the bursary open for 2027? Yes, the Motsepe Foundation has published criteria for the 2027 intake.
- What academic average is required? An average above 70 % (excluding Life Orientation and Home Language).
- Do I need to prove financial need? Yes, you must submit income proof for your parents or guardians.
- Which fields are supported? Science, Technology, Engineering, Accounting, Mathematics, Music and LLB.
- Does it pay for accommodation? Yes, but only university‑accredited housing as defined by the bursary.
- Is a laptop provided? A laptop is included in the books and stationery allowance.
- Is there a meal allowance? Yes, a meal allowance is part of the package.
- Are tutor and mental‑wellness supports included? Both are listed in the bursary benefits.
- What documents are required? Certified ID copies (yours and parents/guardians), certified academic transcript, proof of household income, and a testimonial letter.
- Where do I apply? Through the official page linked above.
- Should I also apply for NSFAS? If you meet NSFAS criteria, you should apply separately – the two processes are independent.
Disclaimer
SET SA is not the Motsepe Foundation and does not administer, shortlist, approve or award these bursaries. This article is based on the information published by the Motsepe Foundation and additional guidance from SETA SA. Always use the official Motsepe Foundation bursary platform as the final authority on eligibility, required documents and deadlines. Never pay anyone who claims they can guarantee you a bursary.
Official application: Apply for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary Programme 2027
Closing date: 16 October 2026.
