South African students seeking financial support for the 2027 academic year have several bursary options closing soon. Four major bursaries are available, each with its own deadline between 17 and 23 August 2026. Applicants are encouraged to act promptly to avoid missing out.
City Of Cape Town Bursary Programme
The City of Cape Town is offering a bursary programme for students residing within the city who meet the eligibility criteria. The application window for this opportunity closes on 17 August 2026, making it the first deadline among the current bursary options. Prospective applicants are urged to prioritise this application if they wish to be considered for funding.
The bursary is specifically aimed at supporting local students who require financial assistance for their studies in 2027. According to the announcement,
“The City of Cape Town invites qualifying South African students residing in Cape Town to apply for the City of Cape Town Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year.”
Those interested should ensure all required documents are prepared and submitted before the closing date.
Wilmar Sa Bursary Programme
Wilmar SA is inviting applications for its 2027 bursary programme, with the deadline set for 19 August 2026. This opportunity is open to South African students who meet the specified requirements and can provide the necessary supporting documents. Applicants are advised to carefully review the eligibility criteria before submitting their applications.
The organisation highlights the importance of preparation, stating,
“Applicants should review the full bursary requirements and prepare all compulsory supporting documents before submitting their applications.”
Students are encouraged to gather all academic records and ensure their applications are complete.
Sanparks External Bursary Programme
The South African National Parks (SANParks) is offering external bursaries for the 2027 academic year, targeting youth from communities neighbouring national parks. The closing date for this bursary is 21 August 2026, giving eligible candidates a few extra days to finalise their applications. The programme is designed to benefit those living near national parks, so applicants should confirm their eligibility.
The SANParks team notes,
“The programme is specifically aimed at qualifying youth from communities neighbouring national parks, so applicants should carefully check the eligibility criteria before applying.”
Interested students should ensure they meet all requirements and submit their applications on time.
Sasol Foundation Bursary Programme
The Sasol Foundation is also accepting applications for its 2027 bursary programme, with the final deadline set for 23 August 2026. This bursary is available to South African students who meet the foundation’s criteria and are pursuing qualifications aligned with the programme’s focus areas. Applicants are reminded to verify that their chosen field of study is supported by the bursary.
The foundation advises,
“Students interested in Sasol Foundation funding should ensure that their intended qualification meets the programme requirements before submitting an application.”
All required documentation should be prepared and submitted before the closing date.
Application Process And Important Considerations
Students are reminded to pay close attention to the specific deadlines for each bursary, as missing a closing date could result in lost opportunities. The City of Cape Town bursary closes first, followed by Wilmar SA, SANParks, and finally the Sasol Foundation. It is recommended that applicants submit their forms well before the respective deadlines.
Before applying, students should read all eligibility requirements, confirm that their intended qualification is covered, and prepare certified documents where necessary. Proof of residence or financial need may also be required for some bursaries. The application process is competitive, and
“Applying for a bursary does not automatically guarantee funding. Each organisation will conduct its own assessment and selection process.”
Ensuring that every application is complete and submitted on time will improve the chances of being considered for funding.