South African Translators’ Institute (SATI) Bursary South Africa 2025

Are you a South African student passionate about languages and pursuing a career in translation or interpreting? 

The South African Translators’ Institute (SATI) bursary program could be the financial boost you need to achieve your academic goals. 

Founded in 1956, SATI is the leading professional association for language practitioners in South Africa.

This includes translators, interpreters, proofreaders, editors, copywriters, and more.

SATI is committed to fostering a multilingual culture in the country and promoting the development of translation and interpreting services for all 11 official South African languages.

About the South African Translators’ Institute Bursary

Established in 1993, the South African Translators’ Institute bursary program aims to support deserving students pursuing studies in translation, interpreting, or other language practice disciplines.

The program offers one partial bursary valued at R10,000 annually.

The awarded amount is paid in two installments: 50% at the beginning of the academic year and the remaining 50% following successful completion of the first semester with a minimum average of 65% in language practice subjects.

The selection process for the SATI bursary prioritizes candidates demonstrating financial need, strong academic performance, and a commitment to language practice.

Preference may be given to students working with combinations of South African official languages.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the bursary details:

  1. Value: R10,000 (one partial bursary awarded)
  2. Payment: Two installments (50% at the beginning, 50% after successful completion of the first semester)
  3. Criteria: Financial need, academic merit, language combinations, previous awards/engagement with SATI

South African Translators’ Institute Bursary Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, ensure you meet the following eligibility requirements:

  1. You must be a South African citizen.
  2. Your studies must be focused on translation, interpreting, or other language practice disciplines.
  3. Be enrolled in your 2nd, 3rd, or 4th year of study (applications from 1st year students will not be considered).
  4. You must be registered at a recognized South African tertiary institution.
  5. Demonstrate a minimum overall average of 65% in language practice subjects for the previous academic year (2024).
  6. You cannot have failed any subjects registered for in the year you receive the bursary.
  7. Preference may be given to students working with combinations of South African official languages.
  8. You must be demonstrably in financial need.
  9. You cannot be receiving any other bursary funding or grant that covers the same expenses as the SATI bursary.
  10. You must be able to cover any remaining expenses not covered by the SATI bursary.

South African Translators’ Institute Bursary Application Requirements

To apply for the SATI bursary, follow these steps:

  1. Download the Application Form: Download the latest SATI Bursary Application Form (2025 is anticipated).
  2. Supporting Documentation: Gather the following documents (all copies must be certified):
    • ID document
    • Matric certificate
    • Academic qualifications completed (if applicable)
    • Full tertiary academic record
    • Proof of registration at your tertiary institution for 2024 (if available)
    • Evidence demonstrating access to funds to cover your remaining expenses not covered by the SATI bursary
    • Details of any other awards or funding you have received or expect to receive
    • A sworn affidavit confirming you are not receiving any other bursary covering the same expenses as the SATI bursary
  3. Email Submission: Submit all completed documents electronically via email to sati2assist@translators.org.za. Include “SATI Bursary Application 2025” in the subject line.

Please note that incomplete applications are subject to disqualification.

How to Contact SATI

For any inquiries related to the SATI bursary program, please contact the South African Translators’ Institute (SATI) directly:

  1. Contact Person: Theresa Bender
  2. Email: office@translators.org.za

South African Translators’ Institute Bursary Closing Date

The application deadline for the 2025 bursary program has not yet been announced.

I recommend you check the SATI website closer to the application period for updates on the deadline and any potential changes to the program.