The Motsepe Foundation is offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year to deserving South African students. This program aims to support students who show academic promise and have financial needs. The application deadline is October 16, 2026.
About the Motsepe Foundation Bursary Programme
The Motsepe Foundation Bursary Programme provides financial help to students who have good grades and need money for their studies. The bursary is available for specific subjects like Science, Technology, Engineering, Accounting, Mathematics, and Humanities. It also includes programs in Music and Law (LLB).
This bursary covers more than just tuition fees. It can also help with costs for accommodation, learning materials, food, and other student expenses. This makes it a valuable opportunity for students facing financial challenges.
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary, applicants must meet several requirements:
- Academic Performance: Students need to have an average academic pass mark of over 70%. Life Orientation and Home Language grades are not included when calculating this average.
- Financial Need: Applicants must show that they have a genuine financial need.
- Field of Study: The student must plan to study in one of the subjects supported by the foundation.
- Geographical Location: Applicants must meet the foundation’s specific requirements for where they live.
It is important for applicants to check that their most recent academic results meet these performance standards before applying.
Supported Fields of Study
The Motsepe Foundation Bursary supports studies in several key areas:
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Accounting
- Mathematics
- Humanities
- Music
- Law (LLB)
Students should confirm that their chosen course of study falls within these supported areas.
What the Bursary Covers
The Motsepe Foundation Bursary offers broad financial and student support. This can include:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- University-approved accommodation
- Books and stationery
- A laptop
- Meal allowances
- Tutor support
- Mental wellness services
This wide range of support is especially helpful for students with limited financial resources, covering both academic needs and daily living costs.
Required Documents
Applicants need to prepare the following documents for their application:
- A certified copy of the applicant’s ID.
- Certified copies of the IDs for parents or legal guardians.
- A certified copy of the applicant’s most recent academic transcript or results.
- Proof of income for both parents or legal guardians.
- A testimonial letter from one of the following: a school principal, a religious leader, or a traditional leader.
All documents must be clear, up-to-date, and properly certified where needed.
Supported Geographical Areas
The Motsepe Foundation has specific areas where applicants can apply from. These are spread across various provinces in South Africa.
Limpopo
- Sekhukhune
- Capricorn
- Vhembe
- Mopani
Free State
- Thabo Mofutsanyana
- Mangaung
KwaZulu-Natal
- uMgungundlovu
- eThekwini
- King Cetshwayo
Eastern Cape
- OR Tambo
- Nelson Mandela Bay
- Buffalo City
Mpumalanga
- Bushbuckridge
- Mbombela
- KwaMhlanga
North West
- Mmakau
- Madibeng
- Bojanala
Gauteng
- Tshwane
- Ekurhuleni
- Johannesburg
- Sedibeng
Western Cape
- Khayelitsha
- Mitchells Plain
Northern Cape
- John Taolo Gaetsewe area
- Frances Baard
Applicants should verify their specific location is listed as supported before applying.
How to Apply
Applications for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary Programme 2027 must be submitted through the foundation’s official bursary platform. It is important to carefully review all the bursary criteria, gather all the necessary supporting documents, and complete the application before the closing date of October 16, 2026. Late applications are generally not considered.
Tips Before Applying
To ensure a strong application, consider these tips:
- Calculate Your Average: Accurately calculate your academic average, excluding Life Orientation and Home Language, to confirm it’s above 70%.
- Verify Study Field: Make sure your intended course of study is among the fields supported by the foundation.
- Check Location: Confirm that your home area is listed among the supported locations.
- Prepare Documents: Gather and certify all required identity documents for yourself and your guardians.
- Income Proof: Obtain clear proof of your household’s income.
- Testimonial Letter: Request your testimonial letter from a recognized leader well in advance.
- Academic Results: Ensure your academic results or transcript are complete and easy to read.
Conclusion
The Motsepe Foundation Bursary Programme for 2027 offers significant financial support to academically strong and financially needy students in South Africa. By carefully reviewing the eligibility requirements, supported fields of study, and required documents, applicants can prepare a thorough application. Meeting the October 16, 2026 deadline is essential for consideration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Motsepe Foundation Bursary for?
The Motsepe Foundation Bursary provides financial aid to deserving South African students who have strong academic records and require financial assistance for their studies in specific fields.
What fields of study are covered by the bursary?
The bursary supports studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, Accounting, Mathematics, Humanities, Music, and Law (LLB).
What costs does the bursary cover?
It covers tuition fees, accommodation, books, stationery, a laptop, meal allowances, tutor support, and mental wellness services.
When is the application deadline for the 2027 bursary?
The application deadline for the 2027 Motsepe Foundation Bursary is October 16, 2026.
