What is the Highest Bursary Amount a Student Can Get in South Africa?

Affording higher education in South Africa can be hard sometimes. And while government initiatives like NSFAS offer enough support, many students still suffer financial burdens.

A bursary, however, can help such students out by offering full or partial financial aid to cover their tuition fees, accommodation, and even living expenses.

But what is the highest bursary amount a student can get in South Africa? Keep reading this article to find out more.

How much do bursaries pay in South Africa?

The amount you can receive through bursaries depends on a number of factors, including: the type of bursary you’re applying for, the field of study, the applicant’s academic performance and their level of financial need.

Generally, bursary amounts range from R15,000 to R150,000 per year.

Full-fledged bursaries covering all expenses can reach even higher, upwards of R200,000 annually.

Remember that these are just broad ranges, and the exact amount you qualify for will depend on the organization and your individual circumstances.

What is the Highest Bursary Amount a Student Can Get in South Africa?

It is difficult to pinpoint the highest bursary amount you can receive due to the variety of bursary programs available. However, some stand out for their generous offerings:

  1. Sasol Inzalo Bursary: This bursary for academically exceptional students in STEM fields can reach R260,000 per year, covering tuition fees, accommodation, books, and a living allowance.
  2. BHP Billiton Bursary: This merit-based bursary for engineering and related fields can reach R220,000 per year, covering tuition, accommodation, and a stipend.
  3. Liberty Bursary: This one is for academically strong students in various fields can reach R180,000 per year, covering tuition, accommodation, and a living allowance.

These are just a few examples, and many other bursaries offer substantial financial support.

To discover the highest bursary amounts available to you, carefully research bursaries in your field of study and consider your academic record and financial need.

How do I get a full bursary in South Africa?

Securing full bursaries require dedication and strategic planning. Here are some steps you can follow to help you out:

  1. Start early: Begin researching bursaries in your senior high school years.
  2. Excel academically: Maintain high grades to make yourself a competitive candidate.
  3. Research thoroughly: Explore the internet to discover all your options and contact universities and relevant organizations directly.
  4. Craft strong applications: Make your applications unique to ensure that you mention your academic achievements, financial need, and future career aspirations.
  5. Meet application deadlines: Don’t miss out on opportunities by submitting late applications.
  6. Seek professional guidance: Consider consulting career counselors or special advisors for personalized assistance.

Winning full-coverage bursaries can be competitive, but with enough preparation and a solid application, you can significantly increase your chances of getting selected.