This guide is for academically deserving South African students who demonstrate financial need and are looking to fund their studies in 2027. By following these steps, you will be able to successfully apply for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary Programme. Before you begin, ensure you have reviewed the eligibility requirements and gathered all necessary documents as outlined in the application details. The expected result is a complete and correctly submitted bursary application.
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
The first step is to ensure you meet all the Motsepe Foundation Bursary requirements for 2027. This involves checking your academic performance, financial need, and geographical location.
- Academic Performance: Verify that your average academic pass mark is more than 70%, excluding Life Orientation and Home Language. Ensure your latest academic results clearly show this.
- Financial Need: Be prepared to demonstrate that your household has a financial need.
- Field of Study: Confirm that your intended course of study falls within the supported fields: Science, Technology, Engineering, Accounting, Mathematics, Humanities (including Music), or LLB/Law.
- Geographical Location: Check if your home area is listed among the supported communities in Limpopo, Free State, KwaZulu-Natal, Eastern Cape, Mpumalanga, North West, Gauteng, Western Cape, or Northern Cape.
Mistake to Avoid: Applying without confirming all these criteria can lead to immediate disqualification. Double-check your results and the list of supported areas.
Outcome: You will know with certainty if you qualify to proceed with the application.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
Collect all the necessary documents to support your bursary application. Having these ready will make the application process smoother and faster.
- Identification: Obtain certified copies of your ID and the certified ID copies of your parents or legal guardians.
- Academic Records: Get a certified copy of your latest academic transcript or results.
- Proof of Income: Prepare proof of income for both your parents or legal guardians.
- Testimonial Letter: Request a testimonial letter from one of the following: a school principal, a religious leader, or a traditional leader.
Mistake to Avoid: Submitting unclear, outdated, or uncertified documents. Ensure all copies are legible and properly certified where required.
Outcome: You will have a complete set of all required documentation, ready for submission.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
Access the official Motsepe Foundation bursary platform to fill out the application form. This is where you will input your personal details and upload your supporting documents.
- Navigate to the Platform: Use the provided link to go to the official application portal.
- Fill in Personal Details: Accurately enter all required information about yourself and your academic background.
- Upload Documents: Upload the certified copies and proof of income you gathered in the previous step.
- Review Your Application: Before submitting, carefully review all entered information and uploaded documents for accuracy and completeness.
Mistake to Avoid: Rushing through the application or failing to double-check details. Ensure all fields are filled correctly and all documents are uploaded to the right sections.
Outcome: Your bursary application will be fully completed and ready for final submission.
Step 4: Submit Your Application Before the Deadline
The final step is to submit your completed application. It is crucial to do this before the closing date to ensure it is considered.
- Final Check: Do one last review of your entire application.
- Submit: Click the submit button on the application platform.
- Confirmation: Look for a confirmation message or email indicating that your application has been received.
Mistake to Avoid: Submitting late. The closing date for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary Programme for 2027 is 16 October 2026. Late applications will not be considered.
Outcome: Your application for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary is successfully submitted and you will receive confirmation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main academic requirements for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary?
You need an average academic pass mark of over 70%, excluding Life Orientation and Home Language.
What kind of proof of financial need is required?
You must be able to show that your household experiences financial need.
Which fields of study are supported by the bursary?
The bursary supports studies in Science, Technology, Engineering, Accounting, Mathematics, Humanities (including Music), or LLB/Law.
When is the deadline to submit the Motsepe Foundation Bursary application for 2027?
The deadline for submitting your application is 16 October 2026.
