IDC Bursary 2027 for Commerce, STEM, and Law
Bursary Description
The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) is a national development finance institution committed to fostering economic growth and industrial development in South Africa. For the 2027 academic year, the IDC is extending an invitation to eligible South African students to apply for its External Bursary Scheme. This initiative is specifically designed to support unemployed youth who demonstrate financial need and possess a strong academic record, aiming to cultivate future leaders and professionals across critical sectors of the South African economy. The bursary seeks to address skills shortages and promote inclusive economic participation by providing financial assistance for undergraduate and postgraduate studies in high-demand fields. This bursary represents a significant opportunity for students who are passionate about contributing to South Africa's industrial landscape. By investing in education, the IDC aims to empower individuals and build a pipeline of talent that will drive innovation, create employment, and enhance the country's competitive edge on the global stage. The scheme underscores the IDC's commitment to social upliftment and sustainable development, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder the academic aspirations of deserving South African citizens.
What the Bursary Covers
Full tuition fees
University Accommodation & University Accredited Off-Campus Accommodation
Laptop (once-off purchase)
Meal allowance
Transport allowance
Who Should Apply
This bursary is targeted at unemployed South African citizens who are in financial need and are either currently in Grade 12 or have completed Grade 12. Applicants must be 26 years old or younger and intend to study full-time towards a first undergraduate qualification in one of the specified fields. Postgraduate funding is available for specific Honours degrees in Law, Accounting (CA), Actuarial Science, Mathematics & Statistics. Studies must be pursued at a recognised public University or University of Technology. Matric students require a minimum of 75% APS, while tertiary students need a 65% average. The bursary is intended for applicants whose parents' combined household income is up to R600,000 per annum, with an affordability assessment conducted for those earning between R350,000 and R600,000.
Why This Bursary Stands Out
The IDC External Bursary Scheme is distinguished by its comprehensive coverage, which includes not only tuition but also accommodation, a laptop, meal, and transport allowances, significantly easing the financial burden on students and their families. Furthermore, it focuses on critical fields essential for South Africa's industrial development, offering a clear pathway for students to contribute meaningfully to the nation's economy. The IDC's reputation as a leading development finance institution also provides recipients with a strong association and potential future career opportunities within sectors influenced by the corporation's mandate.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the IDC Bursary Portal. Prospective applicants are advised to visit https://protected.idc.co.za/BursaryPortal/ to complete the application process. Ensure all required documents, including certified ID, academic transcripts, proof of income, and other supporting documents as specified, are uploaded during the online application. It is crucial to adhere strictly to the document submission guidelines to ensure a complete and valid application.
Closing Date: 2026-09-30
Requirements
Must be a South African citizen.
Must NOT be older than 26 years old.
Must be currently in Grade 12 or have completed Grade 12.
Must be studying or intend on studying full time towards a first undergraduate qualification in one of the listed fields (second qualifications are not funded).
Postgraduate (Honours) funding is limited to Law Qualifications, Accounting (CA), Actuarial Science, Mathematics & Statistics.
Must be studying or intend on studying at a recognised public University or University of Technology (private colleges are not funded).
Matric students must achieve a minimum of 75% APS.
Tertiary students must achieve a minimum of 65% average (most recent results).
Parents' combined household income must be up to R350,000 p/a. Applicants with a combined household income between R350,000 p/a and R600,000 p/a may be considered after an affordability assessment.