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The Motsepe Foundation Bursary could be your key to unlocking a brighter future. This prestigious bursary provides students from low-income backgrounds with the financial support they need to study at top universities across the country.

What is the Motsepe Foundation Bursary?

The Motsepe Foundation, established with the mission to uplift marginalized communities in South Africa, offers bursaries to students pursuing higher education. The foundation has awarded more than 1,800 bursaries over the past five years, focusing on students from underprivileged backgrounds, especially those pursuing studies in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).

These bursaries are not limited to STEM subjects; the foundation also supports students in various other disciplines, ensuring a wide range of opportunities for South African students. This initiative aims to make education accessible to all, helping young South Africans pursue their dreams and contribute positively to society.

Who Can Apply for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary?

Eligibility Criteria

Before applying for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary, make sure you meet the following requirements:

  • South African Citizenship: You must be a South African citizen.
  • Academic Excellence: Applicants must have an average of 70% or higher in their matric results.
  • Field of Study: You must be planning to study in one of the eligible fields, including STEM disciplines.
  • Financial Need: The bursary is primarily for students from low-income families.
  • Community Engagement: You should be willing to participate in community service activities, as this is a requirement of the foundation.

Required Documents

To apply for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary, you will need to submit the following documents:

  • Certified copy of your South African ID.
  • Proof of residence.
  • Certified copy of your Matric certificate or, if you are currently at tertiary level, a certified copy of your academic record.
  • Proof of income for your parents or guardians (latest payslips or employment letter).
  • IDs of other household members, if applicable.

Ensure all documents are certified before submitting them with your application.

How to Apply for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary 2024?

Applying for the Motsepe Foundation Bursary is straightforward. Follow these steps to submit your application:

Step 1: Visit the Motsepe Foundation Website

Start by visiting the official Motsepe Foundation website where you can register and access the application form.

Step 2: Complete the Online Application Form

Fill out the online application form carefully, providing all necessary details. Be accurate to avoid any errors that could result in disqualification.

Step 3: Upload Required Documents

Upload all the necessary documents as per the guidelines on the website. Double-check that everything is in order before submitting your application.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Once the form and documents are ready, click the submit button. After submission, you will need to download the consent form for further processing.

Step 5: Track Your Application

After submission, keep an eye on your email inbox for updates on the status of your application. The Motsepe Foundation may also contact you for additional information if needed.

Important Note: Be sure to submit your application before the deadline. The closing dates may vary, so it’s essential to check the foundation’s official website regularly for the most current information.

What Does the Motsepe Foundation Bursary Cover?

The Motsepe Foundation Bursary offers comprehensive financial support to help you pursue your higher education with ease. The bursary covers:

  • Tuition fees.
  • Accommodation and administration fees.
  • Examination fees.
  • Study materials including textbooks.
  • Food and travel allowances.

In addition to financial support, bursary recipients benefit from mentorship and networking opportunities, which can help accelerate their academic and professional growth.

Benefits of the Motsepe Foundation Bursary

The Motsepe Foundation Bursary is more than just financial support. By awarding this bursary, the foundation aims to foster academic success and professional growth. Key benefits include:

  1. Complete Financial Support: Covers all your academic-related expenses.
  2. Networking Opportunities: Connect with other motivated students and professionals in your field.
  3. Mentorship: Receive guidance and advice from experienced mentors to help you navigate your educational journey.
  4. Community Impact: As part of the Motsepe Foundation’s ethos, bursary recipients are encouraged to participate in community service, contributing positively to society.

How to Contact the Motsepe Foundation

If you have any questions about the bursary application process or need further clarification, you can reach out to the Motsepe Foundation using the following contact details:


Overview of Public Universities in South Africa

Here's an overview of some public universities in South Africa, including general admissions requirements and estimated application periods. Keep in mind, specific program requirements and dates can vary significantly, so it's important to check each university's official website for the most current information.

University of Pretoria

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with minimum scores in specific subjects related to the chosen program; for international students, equivalent qualifications.
  • Application Period: Usually opens in March and closes at the end of July for most programs.

University of Cape Town

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with pass levels required for degree study; subject-specific requirements depending on the program.
  • Application Period: Application opens in April and closes at the end of July.

Stellenbosch University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required marks; some programs have additional testing.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and typically closes at the end of June.

University of the Witwatersrand

  • Admissions Requirements: Matriculation certificate with university exemption; required scores vary by faculty.
  • Application Period: Begins in March and ends on the 30th of September.

University of Johannesburg

  • Admissions Requirements: Matric exemption with a minimum APS score; specific subject requirements based on the faculty.
  • Application Period: Opens in April and generally closes by the 30th of September.

University of the Free State

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific marks for the program applied to; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Typically opens in April and closes at the end of August.

University of Venda

  • Admissions Requirements: Completion of the National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for diploma or degree studies; specific APS scores needed.
  • Application Period: Usually from May to September.

University of Fort Hare

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; certain programs may have specific requirements.
  • Application Period: Opens around May and closes at the end of September.

University of the Western Cape

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific performance levels; additional requirements for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Generally from May to September.

North-West University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with university exemption; program-specific requirements may apply.
  • Application Period: Opens in March and usually closes by the end of August.

Rhodes University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate or equivalent; minimum academic performance in certain subjects.
  • Application Period: Applications open in April and close at the end of September.

Nelson Mandela University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; portfolio or additional tests for some faculties.
  • Application Period: Opens in April, with a deadline at the end of August for most programs.

Cape Peninsula University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores; additional requirements for certain courses.
  • Application Period: Opens in May and typically closes by the end of September.

University of Limpopo

  • Admissions Requirements: Senior Certificate with endorsement for diploma or degree courses; specific APS scores for different programs.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

University of Zululand

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with an endorsement for bachelor’s degree studies; specific score requirements for various programs.
  • Application Period: Usually between April and November.

Central University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with specific scores for the chosen field of study; additional criteria for certain programs.
  • Application Period: Application period generally starts in May and ends in October.

Vaal University of Technology

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with a pass that qualifies for admission to bachelor’s degree, diploma, or higher certificate programs.
  • Application Period: Typically from May to September.

Walter Sisulu University

  • Admissions Requirements: National Senior Certificate with required scores for chosen programs; additional criteria for certain faculties.
  • Application Period: From April to September.

This list provides a starting point for understanding the admissions landscape across South Africa's diverse higher education institutions. Given the variability in programs and requirements, it's crucial to consult each university's website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.