Not specified
Apply for Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) Bursaries 2027
Role Overview
The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) invites academically deserving South African students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds to apply for the IDC External Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year.
Bursary Application Closing Date: 30 September 2026
Bursary Location: South African public universities and universities of technology
The Industrial Development Corporation is offering its External Bursary Programme to qualifying students who want to pursue studies in fields regarded as important to South Africa’s economic and industrial development.
The bursary is mainly aimed at students pursuing their first undergraduate qualification, although limited postgraduate funding may be considered in selected fields.
Applications opened on 1 June 2026 and will close on 30 September 2026.
Organisation: Industrial Development Corporation (IDC)Programme: IDC External Bursary Programme 2027Funding Type: Full study bursaryCitizenship: South African citizensMaximum Age: 26 yearsStudy Mode: Full-timeInstitution: Public University or University of TechnologyPreferred Household Income: R350,000 per annum or lessHousehold Income Considered: Up to R600,000 per annum, subject to affordability assessmentOpening Date: 1 June 2026Closing Date: 30 September 2026Application Method: Online
The IDC funds selected qualifications across Engineering, Science, Technology, Agriculture, Commerce, Finance, Law and quantitative disciplines.
Qualifying Engineering-related programmes include:
Agriculture-related qualifications
The IDC also supports selected studies in:
Selected postgraduate Law qualifications
Applicants studying the following may also be considered:
Be studying or intending to study full-time.
Attend or plan to attend a South African public university or university of technology.
Meet the required academic standards.
Be pursuing an eligible field of study.
Grade 12 learners completing Matric in 2026 must submit:
Preference will be given to applicants with a minimum:
Current tertiary students must have achieved at least:
65% average in their latest academic results
Bursary recipients are expected to maintain a minimum:
throughout the bursary funding period.
Preference is given to applicants whose combined household income is:
Applicants from households earning between:
R350,000 and R600,000 per annum
may still be considered, subject to an affordability assessment.
Additional consideration may be given to:
Students living with disabilities.
Learners from Quintile 1, 2 and 3 schools.
Applicants from rural communities.
Students from historically disadvantaged communities.
Academically strong candidates.
Applicants demonstrating financial need.
Successful applicants may receive funding for:
Examination fees where applicable.
University residence accommodation.
University-accredited off-campus accommodation.
Applicants should note that the programme primarily supports a:
First undergraduate qualification
The IDC does not generally fund:
Most postgraduate qualifications.
Honours-level funding may be considered in selected fields, including:
Applicants should confirm that their intended postgraduate programme falls within the eligible categories before applying.
Applicants must upload clear copies of the required supporting documents.
Recently certified South African ID, preferably not older than three months.
Recently certified proof of residence.
2026 mid-year results where applicable.
Matric certificate if Matric has already been completed.
Grade 11 final results for current Matric learners.
June 2026 Grade 12 results for current Matric learners.
Depending on household circumstances, applicants may also be required to submit:
Affidavit for unemployed parents or guardians.
Six months’ bank statements for self-employed parents.
SASSA grant confirmation letter.
Death certificates where parents are deceased.
Certified copies of parents’ IDs.
Divorce certificate where applicable.
Sworn statement where parents are separated.
Incomplete supporting documentation may result in the application being disqualified.
Applications must be submitted online through the IDC bursary portal.
Click here to apply for Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) Bursary Programme 2027
Complete the online application form.
Complete the required interview questionnaire.
Upload all compulsory supporting documents.
Check that all personal and academic information is correct.
Submit the application before the closing date.
Applications submitted after the closing date may not be considered.
For enquiries relating to the IDC External Bursary Programme, contact:
Noluthando BaepiTelephone: 011 269 3374
Email: ExternalBursaryQueries@idc.co.za
The programme is open to South African citizens.
Applicants must be no older than 26 years.
Funding is for study at public universities and universities of technology.
Preference is given to financially disadvantaged students.
Current u
Key Responsibilities
As a bursary recipient, your responsibilities will include maintaining the minimum academic performance standards and attending all lectures and tutorials as required. Submitting academic progress reports to the bursary provider at specified intervals and participating in any vacation work placements or mentorship programmes is required.
Entry Requirements
• Funding may be available for:
• BCom Law – Commercial Law
• Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
• Diploma Law Studies
• Selected postgraduate Law qualifications
Listing Source
This opportunity was sourced from StudentRoom. Always verify final requirements and deadlines on the official source before applying.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the IDC bursary portal. Click here to apply for Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) Bursary Programme 2027 Applicants should: Complete the online application form. Complete the required interview questionnaire. Upload all compulsory supporting documents. Check that all personal and academic information is correct. Submit the application before the closing date.
Email application: ExternalBursaryQueries@idc.co.za, noluthandob@idc.co.za
About Not specified
This bursary is offered by Not specified.
Why This Is Good for Starters
This bursary from Not specified can cover your tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and sometimes even a living allowance. In South Africa, where the cost of higher education continues to rise, bursaries are a lifeline for talented students who cannot afford to study. Some bursary programmes also include vacation work placements or post-study work opportunities, giving you both education support and practical career exposure.
CV Tips for This Application
- Include your academic record — marks and subjects matter for bursary applications
- Write a compelling motivation letter explaining your financial need and career aspirations
- Mention any community involvement, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities
- Include proof of financial need if the application requires it
- Apply early — bursary programmes often close well before the academic year starts
Application Checklist
- Read the full job description carefully before applying
- Prepare an updated CV tailored to this specific role
- Gather all required documents mentioned in the listing
- Prepare your academic transcripts and proof of financial need
- Write a motivation letter explaining your career goals
- Submit before the closing date: 30 September 2026
- Double-check your contact details are correct on your CV
- Follow up after 2 weeks if you have not heard back
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply with matric only?
Check the requirements section above for education requirements.
Do I need experience?
This appears to be suitable for candidates with little or no experience.
Can I apply if I live in another province?
Most opportunities accept applications from candidates across South Africa. Check the requirements for any location-specific criteria.
What happens after I apply?
After submitting your application, the employer will review it. If shortlisted, you may be contacted for an interview. Response times vary by employer.
Is this bursary paid?
Yes, this opportunity offers: R350000
When is the closing date and what if I miss it?
The closing date is 30 September 2026. Apply before this date to be considered.
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