(RAF) Bursary 2026 – A Detailed Guide

The Road Accident Fund (RAF) plays an essential role in providing financial support to individuals who have been involved in road accidents, helping them with medical expenses and other related costs. However, the RAF also contributes to the growth and development of South Africa’s future leaders by offering the RAF Bursary 2026. This bursary is an excellent opportunity for South African students to pursue their studies in various fields while alleviating the financial burden associated with higher education.

In this article, we will explore the RAF Bursary 2026 in detail, discussing its purpose, eligibility criteria, benefits, and application process.

What is the RAF Bursary 2026?

The RAF Bursary 2026 is a financial assistance program offered by the Road Accident Fund to help South African students further their education in a wide range of fields. The bursary supports students who have demonstrated academic excellence and a passion for their chosen area of study. By offering this bursary, the RAF aims to invest in the future of South Africa by assisting young individuals in achieving their educational goals and contributing to the country’s social and economic development.

The RAF Bursary 2026 covers a variety of disciplines, but priority is often given to fields that align with the RAF’s mission and operational needs, such as healthcare, law, finance, and engineering. It is an ideal opportunity for students who wish to make a meaningful impact in South Africa, particularly in the areas of road safety, accident prevention, and support for accident victims.

Fields of Study Supported by the RAF Bursary 2026

The RAF Bursary 2026 is available for students who are pursuing degrees or diplomas in several key fields. The bursary aims to support students who wish to contribute to improving South Africa’s road accident response and prevention systems, as well as those who aspire to work in sectors that align with the RAF’s core activities. Some of the primary fields of study covered by the bursary include:

1. Law Students studying law, particularly in the fields of personal injury law, insurance law, or road accident law, are encouraged to apply. These fields are crucial to the RAF’s operations, as the organization manages claims related to road accidents and ensures that victims receive fair compensation.
2. Healthcare (Medicine, Nursing, and Allied Health Professions) As the RAF provides financial assistance to accident victims for medical treatments, students pursuing healthcare degrees, such as medicine, nursing, physiotherapy, and occupational therapy, are supported. This field is essential in the ongoing efforts to provide medical care to victims of road accidents and help them recover.
3. Engineering (Civil and Transport Engineering) Civil engineering and transport engineering are vital fields that contribute to the development of safer road infrastructure in South Africa. The RAF bursary encourages students in these disciplines to apply, as their expertise will play a significant role in preventing accidents and improving road safety measures.
4. Finance and Accounting Students pursuing degrees in finance, accounting, or actuarial science can benefit from the RAF bursary, as these areas are critical for managing the organization’s funds, processing claims, and ensuring the efficient use of resources to assist accident victims.
5. Public Health and Safety Public health professionals play a significant role in the prevention and management of road accidents. Students pursuing degrees in public health, epidemiology, or safety management are also encouraged to apply for the RAF Bursary 2026, as they will help in the planning and execution of road safety campaigns and the reduction of road accident fatalities.
6. Social Work Social workers are essential for providing psychological and emotional support to accident victims and their families. The RAF bursary is ideal for students pursuing a degree in social work, particularly those with an interest in trauma care and rehabilitation for individuals affected by road accidents.

Eligibility Criteria for the RAF Bursary 2026

To apply for the RAF Bursary 2026, students must meet specific eligibility requirements. These criteria ensure that the bursary is awarded to individuals who are dedicated to making a difference in the fields that the RAF serves. The key eligibility requirements include:

1. South African Citizenship

The bursary is open only to South African citizens. Applicants will need to provide proof of their citizenship through a valid South African ID or passport.

2. Academic Requirements

• Undergraduate Students: Applicants must have successfully completed Matric (Grade 12) with strong performance in subjects such as mathematics, science, and English, depending on their chosen field of study.
• Postgraduate Students: Applicants must have completed an undergraduate degree or diploma in a relevant field and achieved a minimum academic average of 60% or higher.

3. Full-Time Enrollment

Applicants must be full-time students enrolled at a recognized South African university, technical institution, or college. The bursary is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate programs.

4. Demonstrated Financial Need

The bursary primarily targets students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds. Applicants may be required to provide documentation proving their financial need, such as family income statements.

5. Commitment to Contributing to South Africa’s Road Safety and Healthcare

The RAF is focused on road safety and supporting accident victims, so applicants must demonstrate a commitment to working in areas related to these goals. This can be shown through a personal statement, volunteer experience, or career aspirations related to road safety, healthcare, or accident victim support.

What Does the RAF Bursary 2026 Cover?

The RAF Bursary 2026 offers comprehensive financial support for students pursuing their studies. The bursary typically covers the following:

1. Tuition Fees The bursary covers the full cost of tuition fees for the entire duration of the degree or diploma program, relieving students from the financial burden of their education.
2. Study Materials and Textbooks The bursary provides funding for study materials, including textbooks, software, and other necessary resources for students to succeed in their studies.
3. Accommodation Costs For students who need to live away from home, the bursary provides funding for accommodation either in university residences or private housing.
4. Living Allowance The bursary provides a living allowance to help students cover daily expenses such as food, transport, and personal items.
5. Internships and Practical Experience The RAF Bursary 2026 also offers opportunities for students to gain practical experience in their field of study. Internships and work placements are available at the RAF or with partner organizations, providing students with valuable exposure to real-world situations.
6. Career Development and Mentorship Successful bursary recipients are provided with mentorship and career development support, guiding them in navigating their career paths and making valuable industry connections.

How to Apply for the RAF Bursary 2026

The RAF Bursary 2026 application process is straightforward, but applicants should ensure they meet all the eligibility requirements and submit their applications before the deadline. Follow these steps to apply:

Step 1: Ensure Eligibility

Verify that you meet the eligibility requirements, including South African citizenship, enrollment in an eligible program, and the ability to demonstrate financial need.

Step 2: Prepare Required Documents

Gather all the necessary documentation for your application, including:

• A certified copy of your South African ID or passport
• Matric certificate or latest academic transcripts (for undergraduate applicants)
• Proof of enrollment in a recognized institution
• Family income statement or other documents demonstrating financial need
• A personal motivation letter explaining why you are passionate about your chosen field and how the RAF Bursary will help you achieve your goals

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Access the RAF Bursary 2026 application form from the official RAF website or other trusted bursary platforms. Fill out the application form carefully, ensuring that all sections are completed.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Submit your completed application along with all required documents by the specified deadline. Late applications are typically not considered.

Step 5: Wait for Feedback

Once the application deadline has passed, the RAF will review all applications. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews or additional assessments.

The RAF Bursary 2026 is an excellent opportunity for South African students to pursue higher education in fields related to road safety, healthcare, law, engineering, and more. By offering financial support, internships, and career development opportunities, the bursary is designed to help students achieve their educational goals and contribute to improving road safety and supporting accident victims in South Africa.

If you are passionate about making a difference in the lives of South Africans affected by road accidents and want to further your education in a field aligned with the RAF’s mission, this bursary could be the perfect opportunity for you.

Application Link: RAF Bursary Application Portal