IDC External Bursary Scheme 2027
Applicants must be South African citizens not older than 26, have financial need, and be admitted to or studying at a South African public university or university of technology in an eligible field.
Closed · last closed 30 Sep 2026
Bursary
Check the current application cycle
Use the official portal for dates and requirements.
About
The IDC External Bursary Scheme supports unemployed South African citizens with financial needs who are studying or intend to study full-time in eligible fields. It covers tuition, accommodation, a once-off laptop, meals and transport. Applications for the 2027 academic year are closed.
What it covers
- Full tuition fees
- University accommodation and university-accredited off-campus accommodation
- Laptop (once-off)
- Meal allowance
- Transport allowance
Who can apply
Unemployed South African citizen, not older than 26
Studying towards a first qualification or undergraduate studies; honours funding is limited to Law, Accounting (CA), Actuarial Science, Mathematics and Statistics
Combined parental household income up to R350 000 per year; applicants with income between R350 000 and R600 000 per year may be considered subject to affordability assessment
Admitted to study at a South African public university or university of technology
Matriculants: minimum 75% APS
Tertiary students: minimum 65% average in most recent results and maintain a 60% GPA
Qualification must be in a listed field of study
Documents to prepare
Recently certified South African ID document, certified within the past 3 months
2026 mid-year (first semester) results, or latest results if not studying this year
Matric certificate if completed Matric
2026 matriculants: Grade 11 results and June 2026 results
Latest payslip(s) if parent(s) or guardian(s) are employed
Both parents’ 3 months’ bank statements if employed
Affidavit stating annual income if unemployed
6 months’ bank statements if unemployed and self-employed
SASSA letter stating grants received, if applicable
Deceased parent(s)’ death certificates, if applicable
Both parents’ recently certified ID copies
Divorce certificate or separated parent’s sworn statement, and recently certified proof of residence
How to apply
- 1Complete the application online
- 2Submit clear copies of all mandatory supporting documents
- 3Complete the interview questionnaire
Sources
Official sourceIndustrial Development Corporation (IDC)Checked against www.idc.co.za on 29 Oct 2026. Govnet is independent — always confirm with the provider.