Road Accident Fund (RAF) Bursary 2026 – A Detailed Guide

The Road Accident Fund (RAF) Bursary 2026 is a fantastic opportunity for South African students to pursue higher education in fields related to law, medicine, and insurance, which are integral to the Road Accident Fund’s operations. The RAF, a government entity responsible for providing compensation to people injured in road accidents, offers this bursary to help develop the next generation of professionals who will contribute to the smooth running of the organization and the broader South African society.

This bursary is designed to provide financial assistance to students who demonstrate academic excellence and a passion for the areas that align with RAF’s core services, including legal, medical, actuarial, and financial studies. It supports students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds, helping to alleviate the financial strain of education and paving the way for future success in the field.

What is the Road Accident Fund (RAF) Bursary 2026?

The Road Accident Fund (RAF) Bursary 2026 is a government initiative aimed at supporting South African students who are interested in pursuing a career in professions directly linked to the services provided by the RAF. The bursary aims to empower students from underprivileged backgrounds by offering financial assistance for undergraduate and postgraduate studies in various fields such as law, medicine, finance, actuarial science, and insurance.

The Road Accident Fund itself is responsible for compensating individuals who have been involved in road accidents, covering their medical costs, rehabilitation, and lost income due to injuries. As such, the RAF bursary aims to develop a pipeline of professionals who will contribute to the organization’s ongoing efforts to fulfill its mandate.

Fields of Study Supported by the RAF Bursary 2026

The RAF Bursary 2026 supports students pursuing degrees and qualifications in fields that are integral to the RAF’s services. These fields include, but are not limited to:

1. Law
   • The RAF requires legal professionals to assist in claims processing, settlements, and litigations. Students studying law or pursuing a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) degree can apply for this bursary. Specializations in personal injury law, road accident law, and claims management are especially relevant to the work done by the RAF.
2. Actuarial Science
   • Actuaries play a crucial role in analyzing and managing the financial risks associated with insurance claims. Students studying Actuarial Science are eligible for the bursary. This field involves the use of mathematics, statistics, and financial theory to analyze insurance systems and predict future events related to accidents and claims.
3. Insurance and Risk Management
   • The RAF handles a substantial number of insurance claims and offers Insurance and Risk Management programs that are relevant to its work. Students pursuing degrees in insurance, risk management, or financial planning are encouraged to apply for the bursary to enhance their skills in managing risk and insurance products related to road accidents.
4. Medicine (Medicine, Medical Science, and Health-related Fields)
   • The RAF compensates individuals who suffer injuries from road accidents, making medical professionals essential in ensuring proper treatment and rehabilitation. Medical students in fields such as medicine, paramedics, nursing, or rehabilitation therapy are eligible to apply for the bursary.
5. Public Administration and Management
   • Professionals in public administration and management are required to support the administrative functions of the RAF. Students pursuing degrees in Public Administration, Political Science, or Government Studies can benefit from this bursary to pursue leadership roles within the organization.
6. Financial Management
   • As the RAF manages vast amounts of funds for accident compensation, students pursuing Financial Management and Accounting qualifications are eligible for the bursary. This field will prepare students for managing the financial aspects of claims, settlements, and investments.

Eligibility Criteria for the Road Accident Fund (RAF) Bursary 2026

To apply for the Road Accident Fund (RAF) Bursary 2026, students must meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. South African Citizenship

• Applicants must be South African citizens and provide proof of their citizenship (e.g., South African ID or valid passport).

2. Academic Requirements

• Undergraduate Students: Applicants must have completed Matric (Grade 12) with a minimum of 60% in subjects such as mathematics, physical science, accounting, or biology, depending on the field of study.
• Postgraduate Students: Applicants for postgraduate degrees must have successfully completed their undergraduate qualifications with a minimum average of 60%.

3. Full-Time Enrollment

• Applicants must be full-time students enrolled at a South African university or accredited higher education institution.

4. Financial Need

• The bursary is designed to support students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. Applicants will need to submit proof of financial need, such as a family income statement, to demonstrate their eligibility for financial assistance.

5. Interest in RAF Services

• The RAF bursary program is intended for students pursuing fields of study that are directly relevant to the services provided by the RAF. Applicants must submit a motivational letter explaining their interest in road accident services, insurance, or related areas.

What Does the RAF Bursary 2026 Cover?

The RAF Bursary 2026 offers comprehensive financial support to help students complete their studies without being burdened by financial constraints. The bursary typically covers the following:

1. Tuition Fees
   • The bursary covers full tuition fees for the duration of the degree program, allowing students to focus on their studies without worrying about academic costs.
2. Textbooks and Study Materials
   • Students will receive funding to cover the cost of textbooks and other essential study materials needed to excel in their courses.
3. Accommodation and Living Expenses
   • For students who need to live away from home while studying, the bursary provides funding for accommodation and living expenses, ensuring they have the resources to live comfortably while pursuing their degree.
4. Internship and Work Experience
   • The RAF Bursary 2026 also offers students the opportunity to gain practical work experience through internships or work placements at RAF facilities. These internships provide invaluable exposure to the operations of the RAF, including claims processing, legal work, actuarial analysis, and medical assistance.
5. Career Development and Mentorship
   • Bursary recipients will have access to career development programs, mentorship, and guidance from professionals within the RAF. This support will help students gain industry insights, improve their career prospects, and better understand the role they can play within the organization.

How to Apply for the Road Accident Fund (RAF) Bursary 2026

Follow the steps below to apply for the Road Accident Fund (RAF) Bursary 2026:

Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility

• Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria, including being a South African citizen, full-time enrollment at a South African university, and financial need.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

• Gather all necessary documents, including:
  • A certified copy of your South African ID or passport
  • Matric certificate or academic transcripts
  • Proof of financial need
  • Proof of enrollment at a South African university
  • A motivational letter explaining why you are pursuing your chosen field and how it aligns with the RAF’s services.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

• Obtain the RAF Bursary 2026 application form, which can be found on the official RAF website or through trusted bursary portals. Carefully complete the application form with accurate information.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

• Submit your completed application form and supporting documents before the deadline. Ensure that all documents are properly certified.

Step 5: Wait for Feedback

• After the submission deadline, RAF will review the applications. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessments or interviews.

The Road Accident Fund (RAF) Bursary 2026 is a transformative opportunity for students pursuing careers in fields that support the crucial work of the RAF, including law, actuarial science, medicine, insurance, and financial management. With comprehensive financial support for tuition, textbooks, accommodation, and living expenses, this bursary will help alleviate the burden of educational costs and open doors to valuable work experience and career development.

If you are passionate about making a meaningful contribution to the South African road accident compensation system and building a career in a related field, the RAF Bursary 2026 could be the perfect stepping stone for your future. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to develop the skills and experience needed to thrive in these important professions.

Application Link: RAF Bursary Application Portal