GirlCode Bursary 2026 – A Detailed Guide

The GirlCode Bursary 2026 is an exceptional opportunity designed to support young women who are eager to pursue careers in technology and innovation. As part of its mission to close the gender gap in the technology industry, GirlCode offers this bursary to provide financial assistance, mentorship, and exposure to women who are passionate about coding, programming, and other tech-related fields.

In a rapidly evolving world where technology is at the forefront of shaping industries, GirlCode is making a conscious effort to empower women to take their place in the tech world, challenging the stereotype that the tech industry is male-dominated. The GirlCode Bursary 2026 is an important step towards creating an inclusive and diverse workforce, one that celebrates women in tech and promotes equality in education.

In this article, we will delve into the details of the GirlCode Bursary 2026, including eligibility criteria, the application process, benefits, and why it is crucial for young women to seize this opportunity to shape their futures in the tech industry.

What is the GirlCode Bursary 2026?

The GirlCode Bursary 2026 is a bursary program specifically designed to help women in South Africa who are interested in pursuing studies in technology-related fields. GirlCode is an organization that aims to inspire and empower young women to pursue careers in tech, offering a variety of programs and initiatives aimed at increasing the number of women in the technology industry.

The GirlCode Bursary 2026 is one of the organization’s flagship initiatives, providing financial support to help cover tuition fees, study materials, and other academic expenses for female students pursuing degrees or diplomas in fields such as computer science, software development, web development, data science, engineering, and IT.

By supporting women who are passionate about technology, GirlCode is not only helping to create more female tech leaders but is also ensuring that the tech industry becomes more representative and inclusive.

Why is the GirlCode Bursary 2026 Important?

The GirlCode Bursary 2026 addresses the significant gender disparity in the technology sector. While the world has seen enormous advancements in technology, women are still underrepresented in the industry, particularly in technical roles. Here are some of the reasons why this bursary is so crucial:

1. Closing the Gender Gap in Tech: Women have historically been underrepresented in the tech sector, and the GirlCode Bursary 2026 aims to change this by providing opportunities for women to access education and training in technology-related fields. This bursary is part of a broader initiative to create a more balanced and inclusive workforce.
2. Providing Financial Support for Female Students: Many young women in South Africa face financial challenges when it comes to pursuing higher education, particularly in fields like technology that require specialized equipment and resources. The bursary provides much-needed financial assistance to reduce the financial burden and make studying more accessible.
3. Encouraging Women to Pursue Technology Careers: Through the bursary, GirlCode encourages women to pursue careers in tech, an industry that offers high-paying, dynamic job opportunities. The program helps remove the barriers that may discourage women from entering the tech space, offering the support and confidence needed to succeed.
4. Promoting Diversity in Technology: The presence of diverse perspectives is critical for driving innovation in technology. By empowering women to join the tech industry, the GirlCode Bursary 2026 helps foster diversity, leading to more creative and innovative solutions to global challenges.

Who Can Apply for the GirlCode Bursary 2026?

The GirlCode Bursary 2026 is open to South African women who meet the following eligibility criteria. This bursary is specifically designed for women who are interested in pursuing careers in technology, and the application process is open to students in both high school and university.

Eligibility Criteria:

1. South African Citizenship: Applicants must be South African citizens. Proof of citizenship will be required, such as a certified copy of the applicant’s South African ID or birth certificate.
2. Academic Requirements:
   • For Matriculants: Applicants who have completed or are about to complete their National Senior Certificate (NSC) or an equivalent qualification. A minimum of 60% in key subjects such as mathematics, physical science, and computer science (if applicable) is usually required.
   • For University Students: Applicants must be currently enrolled in a South African university or tertiary institution and pursuing a degree or diploma in a tech-related field. Students should have a minimum average of 60% in their current academic program.
3. Fields of Study: The bursary is available for women pursuing studies in the following fields:
   • Computer Science
   • Software Engineering
   • Web Development
   • Data Science
   • Information Technology (IT)
   • Engineering (with a focus on technology)
   • Digital Media
   • Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
   • Mobile App Development
4. Financial Need: Preference is given to applicants who demonstrate financial need. Applicants may be required to submit supporting documents, such as proof of family income or financial hardship, to show their need for assistance.
5. Commitment to the Tech Industry: Applicants should be passionate about pursuing a career in technology and committed to making a positive impact in the industry. GirlCode values students who are motivated to contribute to the growth and innovation of the tech space.

How to Apply for the GirlCode Bursary 2026

The application process for the GirlCode Bursary 2026 is straightforward and designed to ensure that applicants can submit their information efficiently. Here’s a step-by-step guide to applying:

1. Gather the Required Documents

Before starting your application, make sure you have the following documents ready:

• A certified copy of your South African ID or birth certificate
• A certified copy of your matric certificate (for school-leavers) or latest academic transcript (for university students)
• Proof of financial need (such as family income or financial hardship)
• A motivational letter explaining your passion for technology, why you are pursuing a tech-related career, and how the bursary will help you achieve your goals
• Proof of university enrollment (for university students) or an acceptance letter (for matriculants)

2. Complete the Online Application Form

Visit the official GirlCode Bursary 2026 application page and complete the online application form. Be sure to provide all requested information accurately, including personal details, academic background, and financial information.

3. Submit Your Application

Once you’ve completed the application form and uploaded all required documents, submit your application. Make sure to double-check that everything is complete before submitting.

4. Shortlisting and Interviews

After the application deadline, GirlCode will review all applications and shortlist candidates based on academic performance, financial need, and their motivation to pursue a tech career. Shortlisted applicants may be invited for interviews or further assessments.

5. Notification of Results

Successful applicants will be notified via email or phone. They will receive further instructions on how to finalize their bursary acceptance and may need to sign a bursary agreement.

Benefits of the GirlCode Bursary 2026

The GirlCode Bursary 2026 offers several key benefits to recipients, which can help them achieve success in their studies and future careers:

1. Full Tuition Coverage

The bursary covers the full cost of tuition fees for students, helping to alleviate the financial burden of education. This allows recipients to focus on their studies and excel in their chosen field without the worry of tuition fees.

2. Financial Assistance for Study Materials

In addition to tuition, the bursary may provide financial assistance for textbooks, software, and other study-related materials, ensuring that recipients have everything they need to succeed academically.

3. Living Expenses Support

Depending on the terms of the bursary, GirlCode may provide additional financial support to help cover living expenses such as accommodation, meals, and transport costs, making it easier for recipients to focus on their studies.

4. Mentorship and Networking Opportunities

Bursary recipients will gain access to mentorship programs, where experienced professionals in the tech industry will guide them in their academic and career development. GirlCode also offers networking opportunities, allowing recipients to connect with like-minded individuals and industry leaders.

5. Work Experience and Career Development

The GirlCode Bursary 2026 offers recipients opportunities to gain real-world experience through internships, work placements, or job shadowing with tech companies, providing valuable exposure to the industry and improving employability.

The GirlCode Bursary 2026 is an incredible opportunity for young South African women who are passionate about technology and seeking financial assistance to pursue their studies. Through this bursary, GirlCode is not only providing financial support but also helping to create a more diverse and inclusive tech industry by encouraging more women to pursue careers in technology.

If you meet the eligibility criteria and are ready to take your place in the world of tech, apply for the GirlCode Bursary 2026 today and take the first step toward a successful career in the technology sector.

Application Link: GirlCode Bursary 2026 Application