Motsepe Foundation Bursary Application 2026 – A Detailed Guide

Motsepe Foundation Bursary Application 2026: How to Apply, Eligibility, and Important Details

The Motsepe Foundation, established by Dr. Patrice Motsepe, is one of the leading organizations in South Africa committed to addressing education and skills development challenges. The Foundation offers the Motsepe Foundation Bursary to support academically gifted students from disadvantaged backgrounds in pursuing their higher education dreams. The bursary covers various educational expenses, providing financial relief to students who would otherwise not have the means to access tertiary education.

In this article, we will walk you through the Motsepe Foundation Bursary application process for the 2026 academic year, eligibility criteria, how to apply, and other essential details to help you successfully secure funding for your studies.

What is the Motsepe Foundation Bursary?

The Motsepe Foundation Bursary is an initiative aimed at assisting South African students who show academic potential but lack the financial resources to pursue their studies. The bursary supports students in a variety of fields, including science, engineering, health sciences, law, business, education, and technology.

The bursary offers a range of benefits, including:

• Tuition fees (full or partial coverage)
• Accommodation costs (in some cases)
• Study materials (such as books and other resources)
• Living expenses (in some cases)

The bursary is typically offered to undergraduate students, with a focus on those who are academically deserving but financially disadvantaged.

Who is Eligible for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary 2026?

To qualify for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary for the 2026 academic year, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. South African Citizenship

• Applicants must be South African citizens.

2. Academic Performance

• You should have a strong academic record, with high school or previous university results indicating that you can perform well in your studies. Typically, applicants should have a minimum of 60% or higher in their most recent results (matric or university transcript).

3. Disadvantaged Background

• Preference is given to students from disadvantaged backgrounds, including those from rural areas, underprivileged communities, and marginalized groups.

4. Undergraduate Study

• The bursary is primarily intended for undergraduate students who have been accepted or are planning to register at a South African university for their first year of study.

. Financial Need

• Applicants must demonstrate financial need. The bursary is aimed at helping students who cannot afford tuition fees and other study-related costs.

6. Course of Study

• While the bursary is open to students studying in a variety of fields, preference is often given to courses that align with the Foundation’s focus areas, such as engineering, science, law, medicine, education, and technology.

Benefits of the Motsepe Foundation Bursary

The Motsepe Foundation Bursary offers significant financial relief, covering various costs associated with your higher education. The exact benefits may vary, but typical coverage includes:

• Tuition Fees: Full or partial coverage depending on the program and the financial need of the student.
• Accommodation: In some cases, students may receive support for on-campus or off-campus accommodation.
• Books & Study Materials: Funding for textbooks and other essential study materials.
• Living Expenses: An allowance to help with daily living expenses, transportation, or other costs, depending on the terms of the bursary.
• Travel Allowance: Some students may receive a travel allowance to and from their place of study, especially for students in rural areas.

How to Apply for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary 2026

The application process for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary is straightforward, but there are some critical steps to follow. Here’s how you can apply for the 2026 bursary:

Step 1: Visit the Official Motsepe Foundation Website

To begin your application, go to the official Motsepe Foundation website. This is where you will find the application forms and any updates related to the bursary program.

• Website: Motsepe Foundation

Look for the bursary section, which will provide detailed instructions on how to apply.

Step 2: Register and Create an Account

If the website offers an online application portal, you’ll need to create an account by providing your basic information, such as your name, contact details, and educational background. This will give you access to the application form and allow you to track the status of your application.

Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form

After registering, complete the online application form. The form will ask for various details, including:

• Personal information: Full name, ID number, contact information
• Academic qualifications: Your most recent academic results or certificate
• Institution details: The university or college you will be attending in 2026, including your course of study
• Financial information: Income details from your household, showing your financial need
• Motivation: A short essay or statement explaining why you are applying for the bursary and how it will help you achieve your educational and career goals

Step 4: Upload Required Documents

Make sure you have all the necessary documents ready to upload. These may include:

• Certified copy of your ID
• Latest academic transcript or matric certificate
• Proof of university acceptance (admission letter)
• Proof of income (family income, salary slips, or a sworn affidavit if unemployed)
• Proof of residence (a utility bill or a letter from a community leader)
• Any other relevant documents as requested by the bursary application form

Step : Submit Your Application

Once you have filled out the form and uploaded all the required documents, review your application to ensure there are no errors. After that, submit your application. Be sure to save a copy of the submission confirmation for your records.

Step 6: Wait for Feedback

After submitting your application, the Motsepe Foundation will begin reviewing all applications. The review process typically takes a few weeks, and applicants will be notified about the outcome via email or SMS.

• If your application is successful, you will be contacted with further instructions on how to claim your bursary.

Important Dates for Motsepe Foundation Bursary Application 2026

To ensure you don’t miss the application window, make sure to keep track of the key dates for the 2026 academic year. While these dates are subject to change, here are the typical timelines:

• Applications Open: January – March 2026 (exact dates vary, check the official website)
• Applications Close: May – June 2026
• Notification of Outcomes: Applicants are typically informed by July – August 2026.

Make sure to apply early to give yourself the best chance of being considered for the bursary.

Tips for a Successful Motsepe Foundation Bursary Application

Here are some tips to improve your chances of receiving the Motsepe Foundation Bursary:

1. Ensure your application is complete: Submit all required documents and fill out the application form carefully.
2. Show academic excellence: Highlight your academic achievements, whether it’s in high school or previous university results.
3. Demonstrate financial need: Provide clear and honest financial information to show why you need the bursary.
4. Write a compelling motivation letter: The motivation letter is your opportunity to explain why you deserve the bursary and how it will benefit your studies and career.
5. Meet the deadlines: Ensure that you submit your application before the closing date.

The Motsepe Foundation Bursary is a fantastic opportunity for South African students who have the potential to excel academically but lack the financial means to pursue higher education. The bursary provides comprehensive support, including tuition fees, accommodation, study materials, and living expenses, helping students focus on their studies without the burden of financial stress.

Make sure to check the official Motsepe Foundation website for specific application instructions, deadlines, and any updates regarding the 2026 bursary application process.

Apply early, submit all required documentation, and stay motivated. The Motsepe Foundation bursary could be the key to unlocking your academic and professional success in 2026 and beyond!