Metacom Foundation Bursaries: A Guide for 2027 Applicants

The Metacom Foundation is offering a valuable opportunity for young women in the Western Cape to pursue higher education in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and related fields. For the 2027 academic year, this bursary program aims to support female students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds who demonstrate academic potential and financial need. This guide provides a detailed overview of the Metacom Foundation bursaries, including who qualifies, what is covered, and how to apply.

Understanding the Metacom Foundation Bursary Programme

The Metacom Foundation is dedicated to empowering South African women through education. Their bursary program specifically targets female students residing in the Western Cape who are pursuing or intend to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in ICT or a closely related discipline. The foundation partners with select universities in the region to ensure that bursary recipients have access to quality education and support.

Universities and Fields of Study Covered

The Metacom Foundation bursary is available to students enrolled at the following Western Cape universities:

• University of Cape Town (UCT)
• University of the Western Cape (UWC)
• Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)
• Stellenbosch University

The bursary is intended for students studying towards a Bachelor’s Degree in fields such as:

• Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
• Computer Science
• Electrical Engineering
• Electronic Engineering
• Other related ICT disciplines

What the Bursary Covers

The Metacom Foundation bursary offers comprehensive financial and personal support to its recipients. The funding aims to alleviate the financial burdens associated with higher education, allowing students to focus on their studies. Benefits may include:

• Full Tuition Fees: Covering the entire cost of tuition for the duration of the degree program.
• Accommodation: Assistance with living expenses related to student housing.
• Transport: Support for travel costs to and from university.
• Daily Living Needs: Funds to help cover essential personal expenses.
• Industry Guidance: Access to advice and insights from professionals in the ICT sector.
• Mentorship: Participation in the foundation’s “big sister” initiative, providing guidance from experienced mentors.
• Personal Guidance: Support for personal development and academic planning.
• Health and Wellness: Access to sessions focused on maintaining well-being.

Eligibility Requirements for Applicants

To be considered for the Metacom Foundation Bursary, applicants must meet specific criteria:

• Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
• Age: Between 18 and 27 years old.
• Gender: Must be female.
• Background: Must come from a previously disadvantaged background.
• Residency: Must reside in the Western Cape.
• Academic Standing: Must be currently in Matric or have already completed Matric.
• Field of Study: Must be studying or planning to study a Bachelor’s Degree in ICT or a related field.
• University Enrollment: Must be studying or planning to study at UCT, UWC, CPUT, or Stellenbosch University.
• Academic Record: Must possess a strong academic record.
• Financial Need: Must demonstrate a genuine financial need for the bursary.
• Potential and Ambition: Must show academic potential and a clear ambition for their future.

The Selection Process

The Metacom Foundation employs a thorough selection process to identify deserving candidates. Shortlisted applicants will be contacted and invited to attend an interview. It is important for applicants to note that if they do not receive any feedback regarding their application, they should assume their application was unsuccessful.

Required Application Documents

A complete application package is essential for consideration. Applicants must submit a completed application form along with the following supporting documents:

• Completed Metacom Foundation bursary application form.
• A certified copy of your South African ID document.
• A certified copy of your final Matric results.
• Your most recent university transcript, if applicable.
• Proof of your parent or guardian’s household income.
• Latest payslips, if applicable.
• An affidavit if you are unemployed.
• Proof of pension or social grant, if applicable.
• A reference letter (this is optional).

How to Apply for the Bursary

The application process involves two main steps: downloading and completing the application form, and then submitting an online application with all required documents.

1. Download the Application Form: You can download the official Metacom Foundation Bursary Application Form for 2027 from the provided link.
2. Complete the Form: Fill out the downloaded application form accurately and completely.
3. Submit Online Application: Proceed to the online application portal and submit your application.
4. Upload Supporting Documents: Ensure all required supporting documents are uploaded with your online application.

Application Closing Date

The deadline for submitting applications for the Metacom Foundation Bursary 2027 is 03 October 2026. It is strongly advised to complete both the application form and the online submission well before this date to avoid any last-minute issues.

Important Application Notes

Prospective applicants should pay close attention to the specific requirements of the Metacom Foundation bursary. The program is exclusively for female students residing in the Western Cape who are pursuing ICT-related studies at one of the four participating universities. Incomplete applications or those missing mandatory supporting documents are likely to be disqualified.

Frequently Asked Questions