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IDC Bursary 2027 for Various Fields

Industrial Development Corporation
All Provinces
Mutiple fields
Posted 4 months ago
Closes: 30 September 2026
Applications Closed
Applications Closed

Bursary Description

About the Bursary

The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) is a national development finance institution committed to fostering economic growth and industrial development in South Africa. As part of its commitment to nurturing future talent, the IDC offers its External Bursary Scheme for the 2027 academic year. This bursary aims to support bright, ambitious, and financially needy South African students who are pursuing or intend to pursue higher education in critical fields that drive the nation's economy. The IDC recognizes the importance of investing in human capital and provides this opportunity to ensure a pipeline of skilled professionals for South Africa's industrial landscape. This bursary is specifically designed for unemployed South African citizens who demonstrate financial need and are passionate about contributing to the country's development through their chosen fields of study. By supporting students in both undergraduate and postgraduate studies, the IDC External Bursary Scheme plays a vital role in empowering individuals and advancing the nation's economic objectives, ensuring that deserving students have the resources to achieve their academic and career aspirations.

What the Bursary Covers

  • Full tuition fees

  • University accommodation and university-accredited off-campus accommodation

  • A once-off laptop purchase

  • Meal allowance

  • Transport allowance

Who Should Apply

This bursary is open to South African citizens who are not older than 26 years old. Applicants must be currently in Grade 12 or have completed Grade 12 and must be studying or intend to study full-time towards a first undergraduate qualification in one of the specified fields. Postgraduate funding (honours) is available for specific qualifications in Law, Accounting (CA), Actuarial Science, Mathematics, and Statistics. Applicants must be studying at a recognised public university or university of technology. Matric students require a minimum APS of 75%, while tertiary students need a minimum average of 65% from their most recent results. The bursary is intended for applicants whose parents or guardians have a combined household income of up to R600,000 per annum, with a primary focus on those earning up to R350,000 per annum, subject to an affordability assessment.

Why This Bursary Stands Out

The IDC External Bursary Scheme is a significant opportunity for students seeking financial assistance and a pathway to a meaningful career. As a leading development finance institution, the IDC offers bursars exposure to a dynamic and impactful sector of the South African economy. While not explicitly stated, recipients often benefit from potential mentorship opportunities and a strong connection to industries that are crucial for national development. This bursary not only alleviates the financial burden of tertiary education but also invests in individuals who are poised to contribute to South Africa's industrial growth and economic transformation, potentially opening doors to future employment within or associated with the IDC's extensive network.

How to Apply

 

Applications must be submitted online at: IDC Bursary Application 2027

 

Required Documents

  • South African recently certified ID document (not older than 3 months)

  • 2026 mid-year (first semester) results or latest results if not studying this year.

  • Matric certificate if completed Matric.

  • 2026 Matriculants must use their grade 11 results and June 2026 results to apply

  • Proof of parents’ or guardians’ household income:

  1. Recently certified copy of latest pay slip(s) if employed.

  2. Both parents 3 months bank statement if employed.

  3. Affidavit if unemployed stating annual income.

  4. 6 months’ bank statement if unemployed & self-employed.

  5. SASSA Letter stating the grants received if applicable.

  6. Parent(s) death certificates if parent(s) are deceased.

  7. Both parents recently certified ID copies.

  8. Divorce certificate if parents are divorced or sworn statement from the one parent if parents are separated.

  9. Recently certified copy of proof of residence.

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: minimum of 75% APS required.

  • Tertiary students: minimum of 65% average (most recent results) required.

  • Intended for applicants whose parents earn a combined household income of up to R350,000 p/a.

  • Applicants with parents' combined household income between R350,000 p/a and R600,000 p/a may be considered, subject to an affordability assessment.