The Tiso Foundation is inviting applications for its 2027 bursary programme, which provides support to deserving students pursuing full-time undergraduate studies in South Africa.

The bursary is available to students enrolled or intending to enrol towards a Degree or Diploma in any field of study at a recognised and accredited university or university of technology.

Selection is based primarily on academic performance and financial need.

Fields of Study

The Tiso Foundation bursary is open to students pursuing undergraduate studies in any field.

Applicants may apply if they are studying towards a:

• Degree
• Diploma

The qualification must be offered on a full-time basis at a recognised and accredited South African university or university of technology.

What Does the Tiso Foundation Bursary Offer?

Bursary recipients may receive support designed to assist them throughout their academic journey.

The programme includes:

• Financial assistance
• Academic support
• Life skills development
• Networking opportunities

Recipients may also have opportunities to establish connections with Tiso Foundation corporate and institutional partners after completing their studies.

The available information does not specify the exact monetary value of the bursary or which individual study expenses will be covered.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be a South African citizen.
• Be between 18 and 34 years old.
• Be from a previously disadvantaged background.
• Be currently in Matric or have completed Matric.
• Be studying or planning to study full-time.
• Be pursuing an undergraduate Degree or Diploma in any field.
• Be registered or intending to register at a recognised South African university or university of technology.
• Be unemployed.
• Demonstrate financial need.
• Show commitment and dedication towards their studies.
• Have a positive attitude.
• Be willing to contribute towards community development.
• Be willing to participate in community upliftment initiatives.
• Be able to provide references as part of the application.

According to the supplied information, the programme is aimed at applicants from previously disadvantaged groups, including Black, Coloured and Indian applicants.

Academic Requirements

Applicants who are currently in Matric must have achieved a minimum overall average of:

70%

Students who are already enrolled at a tertiary institution must have achieved a minimum overall average of:

65%

Applicants should ensure that they meet the applicable academic threshold before completing their application.

Required Documents

Applicants must provide clear copies of the required supporting documentation.

These documents include:

• Certified copy of ID
• Certified latest Matric results for current Matric learners
• Certified Matric certificate for applicants who have completed Matric
• Certified latest tertiary academic results for current university students
• Proof of registration, acceptance or provisional acceptance at a university or university of technology
• Proof of household income for parents or guardians

Proof of Household Income

Since financial need forms part of the bursary selection process, applicants must provide documentation showing their household’s financial circumstances.

Depending on the situation, supporting documents may include:

• Recent payslips for employed parents or guardians
• An affidavit for unemployed parents or guardians
• Proof of pension income, where applicable
• Proof of social grant income, where applicable
• Death certificates where a parent or guardian is deceased

Applicants should make sure that all financial documents are current, complete and accurately reflect their household circumstances.

Tiso Foundation Bursary Selection Criteria

The selection process takes into account both academic performance and financial need.

Applicants should therefore demonstrate that they meet the required academic standard while also providing sufficient documentation to support their financial-need application.

The Foundation also considers applicants’ commitment to their studies, attitude, community involvement and willingness to participate in community upliftment initiatives.

How to Apply for Tiso Foundation Bursary Programme 2027

Applications must be completed online through the official Tiso Foundation bursary application portal.

Apply for the Tiso Foundation Bursary Programme 2027

Applicants should complete the online application form and upload all required supporting documents before submitting their application.

Tiso Foundation Bursary Closing Date

The closing date for applications is:

08 October 2026

Applicants should submit their completed applications before the deadline.

Important Information

• The bursary is available for the 2027 academic year.
• Funding is available for undergraduate Degrees and Diplomas.
• Students from any field of study may apply.
• Applicants must study or intend to study full-time.
• Applicants must be between 18 and 34 years old.
• Current Matric learners require a minimum overall average of 70%.
• Current tertiary students require a minimum overall average of 65%.
• Applicants must demonstrate financial need.
• Applicants must be unemployed.
• Applicants must provide the required supporting documents and references.
• Applications must be submitted online.
• The application deadline is 08 October 2026.