Bursaries for 2026: Full List Closing in March

Many South African students are still searching for financial support for the 2026 academic year. 

While many bursaries close in January and February, there are several important funding opportunities that close in March 2026. 

These bursaries are offered by government bodies, companies, trusts, universities, and non‑profits. 

They can help cover tuition, accommodation, textbooks, research costs, study travel, and living expenses. 

Below is a comprehensive list of bursaries with March deadlines and guidance on how to apply before the deadlines.

What Bursaries Close in March 2026?

Several bursaries have closing dates in March 2026. Some are national, while others are field‑specific or institution‑linked. 

Not all bursaries provide application links online; for some, you must collect the form or contact the provider directly. 

Key bursaries with March 2026 deadlines include:

1. BEKA Schreder Bursary – engineering and innovation fields.
2. Wells Mountain Initiative Scholarship – general tertiary support.
3. FirstRand International Postgraduate Scholarships – postgraduate overseas studies.
4. FirstRand Laurie Dippenaar Scholarship – postgraduate studies abroad
5. Exxaro Bursary – mining and related engineering fields.
6. Clyde & Co Law Students Bursaries – law students.
7. Stellenbosch Municipality Bursary – local municipal funding.
8. Ek Brown of Monaltrie Animal Sanctuary Trust Bursary – veterinary/animal fields.
9. Africa Cosmos Education Trust Bursary – astronomy and space science fields.
10. UKZN Archbishop Denis E. Hurley Scholarship – UKZN students.
11. UKZN Richard AD Turner Bursary – Humanities at UKZN.
12. SANBI MSc Bursary – biodiversity research support.
13. South African Society of Crop Production (SASCP) Bursary – agricultural sciences.
14. South African Medical Association Bursary – medical and health sciences.
15. Nanoteq Bursary – technology and engineering support.
16. Impala Platinum (Implats) Bursary – mining and metallurgy support.
17. African Scholars Fund Bursary – broad academic support.
18. Gauteng City Region Academy (GCRA) Bursary – general studies support.

These bursaries have deadlines ranging from early to late March 2026, so it is crucial to check each deadline and apply on time.

Who Can Apply for March‑Closing Bursaries?

Eligibility varies by bursary, but most bursaries that close in March 2026 are open to:

1. South African citizens with a valid ID.
2. Students who have completed or are completing Matric.
3. Undergraduate or postgraduate applicants in qualifying fields.
4. Applicants who meet the academic requirements set by the bursary provider.
5. Students who can supply proof of acceptance or registration at a recognised institution.
6. Some bursaries give preference based on field of study, financial need, or host community status.

Always check the eligibility criteria specified by each bursary before applying.

What Fields of Study Do March Bursaries Cover?

The bursaries closing in March 2026 cover a wide range of fields, including:

1. Engineering and technology (BEKA Schreder, Nanoteq).
2. Mining and metallurgy (Exxaro, Implats).
3. Law and humanities (Clyde & Co, UKZN bursaries).
4. Science and research (SANBI, Africa Cosmos).
5. Medical and health sciences (SAMA bursary).
6. Agriculture (SASCP bursary).
7. General academic support across many disciplines (GCRA, African Scholars Fund).

This variety means students from different faculties can find funding that matches their course of study.

What Costs Do March‑Closing Bursaries Cover?

Bursaries closing in March 2026 typically fund:

1. Tuition fees for the academic year.
2. Study materials like textbooks and research supplies.
3. Accommodation where applicable.
4. Living allowances or stipends, depending on the bursary provider.
5. Research support for postgraduate studies (such as the SANBI MSc bursary).

Each bursary will specify what it covers, so students should read the funding details carefully before applying.

How Do You Apply for Bursaries Closing in March?

Application processes vary by bursary:

1. Some bursaries require online application forms via the provider’s official website.
2. Others require you to download a PDF form or collect it from an office.
3. You will usually need to upload or attach certified copies of ID, academic records, proof of acceptance, and income documents.
4. Most bursaries provide specific submission instructions. Follow them exactly and apply before the stated closing date.

What Documents Are Needed?

Common documents required for March bursary applications include:

1. Certified South African ID copy.
2. Matric results or latest academic record.
3. Proof of acceptance or university registration.
4. Proof of residence.
5. Proof of household income or affidavit.

Ensure documents are up to date and certified by a commissioner of oaths.

What Happens After You Apply?

After submission:

1. Bursaries review applications to check eligibility.
2. Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews or further information.
3. Successful applicants receive official offer letters and bursary agreements.

Bursary funds are generally released to the institution or directly to the student.