If you want to become a qualified health professional and still need money to study, the Western Cape Government Department of Health and Wellness has opened its 2027 Full‑Time Bursary Programme. The deadline is fast approaching, so act now.
What the opportunity is
The Western Cape Health and Wellness Department will fund unemployed residents of the province who enroll in selected health‑science programmes. The bursary covers tuition and some living costs, but you must agree to work for the Department after you graduate. This helps the province tackle the shortage of skilled health workers.
Who can apply
- Unemployed South African citizens living in the Western Cape
- Applicants who meet the admission requirements of an accredited higher‑education institution
- Students planning to study one of the approved qualifications (see list below)
- People willing to sign a work‑back contract with the Department of Health and Wellness
What you gain
- Full financial support for your chosen health‑science qualification (value depends on the course and institution)
- A guaranteed job in the Western Cape public health system after you finish your studies
- Practical experience through community service or professional placements
- The chance to help improve health services in urban and rural areas of the province
Approved fields of study for 2027
- Emergency Medical Care: Higher Certificate in Emergency Care Assistant, Diploma in Emergency Medical Care, National Diploma in Emergency Medical Care
- Nursing: Higher Certificate R169 Nursing, Diploma in Nursing R171 (General Nurse), R174 Nursing, Bachelor of Nursing
- Allied Health Sciences: BSc in Occupational Therapy, Degree in Speech Therapy, Degree in Physiotherapy
- Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences: Degree in Medicine, Degree in Pharmacy
How to apply – step by step
- Visit the official application portal and create an account: Register here.
- Log in with your new username and password: Log in here.
- Click “Apply Online” to start your bursary application.
- Complete the five sections:
- Personal details
- Guardian/parent information (if applicable)
- Education history
- Chosen qualification and study details
- Upload all required supporting documents
- Review all information, then submit the application before 30 September 2026.
Documents you will need
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Grade 12 certificate or latest academic results
- Proof of residence in the Western Cape
- Acceptance letter or proof of application to a recognised higher‑education institution
- Academic transcripts
- Any additional documents requested during the application process
Make sure each file is clear, readable, correctly named, and uploaded in the requested format.
Tips to improve your chances
- Start the application early – the portal can be slow close to the deadline.
- Double‑check every field for spelling errors or missing information.
- Upload certified copies where the form asks for them.
- Keep a personal copy of every document you submit.
- Confirm you meet the admission criteria of the university or college before you apply for the bursary.
Next steps
The Department will announce successful applicants in January or February 2027. If you meet the criteria and follow the steps above, you will be in a strong position to receive funding and start a rewarding career in health care. Begin gathering your documents today and submit your application as soon as the portal opens on 15 June 2026.
