The DHET Bursary Scheme

Applicants must be South African citizens and meet the applicable household income threshold; funding is for study at a public university or TVET college.

Check dates with the provider Bursary

Check the current application cycle Use the official portal for dates and requirements.

About

The bursary provides financial support to disadvantaged South African students studying at public universities or TVET colleges. It covers accommodation, transport, living costs, learning materials and, for some students, personal care costs.

What it covers

University: transport up to 40 km R7 500 per annum; living allowance R15,000 per annum; book allowance R5200 per annum; incidental/personal care allowance R2900 per annum. TVET: accommodation R24,000 per annum in urban areas, R18,900 in peri-urban areas or R15,750 in rural areas; transport up to 40 km R7,350 per annum; transport R7000 per annum; incidental/personal care allowance R2900 per annum. University accommodation is as per actual costs charged by the university.

Accommodation
Transport
Living allowance
Book allowance
Incidental/personal care allowance

Who can apply

South African citizenship

Study or plan to study at a public university or TVET college

Combined household income not more than R350 000 per annum

For a person with disability, combined household income not more than R600 000 per annum

For students who started studying before 2018, household income not more than R122 000 per annum

SASSA grant recipients qualify for funding

Sources

Official sourceNational Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)Visit the official website for the latest information.

Apply on the official site

Checked against www.nsfas.org.za on 23 Oct 2026. Govnet is independent — always confirm with the provider.