Bursaries For Private Colleges In South Africa 2025

In South Africa, private colleges offer a variety of programs across numerous fields of study, including business, technology, arts, and health sciences. While private colleges typically charge higher tuition fees than public institutions, various bursaries are available to help students with financial assistance to pursue their studies. Many bursary programs are offered by corporate sponsors, government agencies, and private institutions themselves to support students attending private colleges.

Here is a list of common bursaries available for students planning to study at private colleges in South Africa:

The Southern African Clothing | Textile Workers Union (SACTWU) Bursary

SACTWU Bursary Scheme

1. The Raymond Ackerman Foundation Bursary

The Raymond Ackerman Foundation offers bursaries to deserving students studying at recognized South African private institutions. The bursary is aimed at students who are committed to academic excellence and social development, and it supports undergraduate studies in fields like business management, marketing, and entrepreneurship.

Fields of Study: Business, Marketing, Entrepreneurship, Social Sciences.
Eligibility: South African citizens, financial need, good academic record.
Closing Date: Varies.

2. The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Bursary

The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation offers bursaries to South African students pursuing undergraduate studies, including those attending private colleges. This foundation provides both financial support and mentoring, focusing on students with leadership potential and a passion for entrepreneurship.

Fields of Study: Business, Economics, Finance, and Entrepreneurship.
Eligibility: South African citizens, strong academic record, proven leadership abilities.
Closing Date: Varies.

3. FNB Bursary Fund

First National Bank (FNB) offers a bursary fund aimed at financially supporting South African students who attend private colleges, particularly those in fields related to banking, business, and technology. The fund is designed to provide financial assistance and offer work opportunities with FNB upon graduation.

Fields of Study: Banking, Finance, Information Technology, Business.
Eligibility: South African citizens, financial need, strong academic performance.
Closing Date: Typically around August each year.

4. The National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) Private College Bursary

Although NSFAS primarily supports public universities, they also provide funding for students attending registered private colleges, particularly in the TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) sector. NSFAS funding is offered based on financial need and academic merit.

Fields of Study: Various fields at registered private colleges, including business, IT, and health sciences.
Eligibility: South African citizens, financial need, studying at a registered private college.
Closing Date: Typically in November.

5. The Sasol Bursary Program

Sasol offers bursaries to students pursuing studies in engineering, science, and other related fields. While most Sasol bursaries target students attending public institutions, they also offer funding to students enrolled in private colleges offering specialized programs in fields like chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, and environmental science.

Fields of Study: Engineering (Chemical, Mechanical, Electrical), Science, Technology.
Eligibility: South African citizens, strong academic performance, enrolled in a recognized private college.
Closing Date: Varies.

6. The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) Bursary

The South African Reserve Bank offers bursaries for students pursuing finance, economics, accounting, and business-related studies at both public and private institutions. The SARB bursary program offers financial assistance and guarantees work opportunities with the Reserve Bank after graduation.

Fields of Study: Economics, Finance, Accounting, Mathematics, Information Technology.
Eligibility: South African citizens, strong academic record.
Closing Date: Varies.

7. The Eduloan Bursary Program

Eduloan, one of South Africa’s largest student loan providers, offers bursary programs that provide financial assistance to students at various private colleges. Their bursaries are often linked to education loan products that allow students to cover tuition fees, books, and accommodation costs.

Fields of Study: Various fields, with a focus on business, IT, and health sciences.
Eligibility: South African citizens, financial need, registered at a private college.
Closing Date: Varies.

8. The University of Cape Town (UCT) – Private College Partnerships

UCT has partnered with several private colleges to offer bursaries for students who wish to study through private colleges but receive formal degrees or certifications. This partnership enables students to access financial aid and receive the prestige of a UCT qualification.

Fields of Study: Business Administration, Law, Arts, and Education.
Eligibility: South African citizens, strong academic records, attending an accredited private institution with a partnership to UCT.
Closing Date: Varies.

9. The Pearson Institute Bursaries

The Pearson Institute of Higher Education (formerly known as the PEARSON Institute) offers a range of bursaries for students studying full-time at any of their campuses. These bursaries are aimed at making higher education more accessible for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Fields of Study: Business, IT, Communication, Design, and Health Sciences.
Eligibility: South African citizens, financial need, strong academic record.
Closing Date: Typically in December each year.

10. The Tertiary Education Fund of South Africa (TEFSA) Bursaries

TEFSA provides financial assistance to students enrolled in various private colleges across South Africa. The bursaries are often aimed at helping students from disadvantaged backgrounds, covering tuition and other educational costs.

Fields of Study: Various fields, including business, engineering, and health sciences.
Eligibility: South African citizens, financial need.
Closing Date: Varies.

How to Apply for Private College Bursaries:

Check Eligibility: Ensure that you meet all the necessary criteria, including academic performance and financial need.
Prepare Documentation: Gather the required documents, such as your South African ID, proof of registration, academic records, proof of financial need, and any other documents requested by the bursary provider.
Submit Application: Apply through the bursary provider’s official website or follow the application instructions to submit your application.
Keep Track of Deadlines: Be sure to submit your application before the closing date to ensure consideration.

Conclusion:

Private colleges in South Africa offer diverse and specialized programs across various fields of study. While tuition fees can be high, several bursary programs are available to provide financial assistance to students. Whether through government, corporate sponsors, or private institutions, these bursaries help ease the financial burden and provide access to education for students from all backgrounds. Be sure to research and apply for relevant bursaries before the closing date to secure funding for your studies.