CISCO Foundation IT
CISCO Foundation IT Bursary 2027 – Apply Now
Role Overview
The CISCO Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa has opened its 2027 Bursary Programme for students who want to build a career in technology. This CISCO bursary is aimed at the missing-middle, meaning students from families that earn too much to qualify for some funding schemes but still cannot afford the full cost of university. It supports Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering and Information Technology studies. If you are a South African citizen with a household income between R350 000 and R600 000 a year, applications close on 30 September 2026.
The CISCO Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa launched its bursary programme in 2021 with a clear purpose: to support academically deserving but financially squeezed students who want careers in technology. The programme deliberately focuses on the missing-middle, a group of young South Africans who often fall through the cracks of the funding system. Their parents earn slightly too much to qualify for fully subsidised support, but nowhere near enough to comfortably pay university fees, accommodation and textbooks.
The bursary is administered through StudyTrust, a trusted bursary management organisation, and is open to students at registered public and private higher education institutions in South Africa. Because technology and digital skills sit at the centre of the modern economy, the programme is designed to grow a new generation of South African software developers, network engineers, data specialists and IT professionals who can compete locally and globally.
Final funding benefits may differ depending on individual circumstances and available funding, so applicants should review the official bursary guidelines for full details.
You must be a South African citizen
You must be entering first year up to fourth year of study in 2027
Honours students at NQF Level 8 may also apply
B Tech students at NQF Level 7 may also be considered
You must be studying at a registered public or private higher education institution in South Africa registered with the Department of Education
Your household must have a combined annual family income of between R350 000 and R600 000 per year (the missing-middle)
You must be studying Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering or Information Technology
Preference is given to equity candidates, financially needy students, academically deserving students and historically disadvantaged students.
RELATED: SAADP Actuarial Science Bursary 2027 – Apply Now
Certified copy of your South African ID
Proof of registration or an acceptance letter
Parent or guardian proof of income
Any additional documents requested during the application process
Read all the application guidelines carefully before you start.
Gather all your required supporting documents and make sure they are certified and clearly scanned.
Open the StudyTrust application platform using the link below.
Complete the online application form with accurate personal, academic and financial information.
Submit your application before the closing date.
Apply at CISCO Foundation (StudyTrust)
The closing date for the CISCO Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary Programme 2027 is 30 September 2026. No late applications will be accepted.
Information technology is one of the fastest-growing job sectors in South Africa and around the world, yet many capable students never get to study it because their families sit in the missing-middle. They earn too much for full state support but cannot cover the real cost of a degree.
The CISCO Foundation Bursary was created specifically for these students. By covering tuition, registration and textbooks, it gives young people from working households a fair chance to qualify in fields like software development, cybersecurity and cloud engineering, where skilled professionals are in constant demand. A qualification in IT does not just change one person’s life. It opens the door to stable, well-paid work that can support a whole family and contribute to South Africa’s digital economy.
No. This is a study bursary for current and incoming university students. No work experience is required
This bursary is specifically for the missing-middle, meaning a combined household income between R350 000 and R600 000 a year. If your family falls in this band, you are exactly who the programme is for.
Yes. You may study at any registered public or private higher education institution in South Africa that is registered with the Department of Education.
Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering and Information Technology.
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Key Responsibilities
You must represent the bursary programme positively in your professional conduct and fulfill any work-back obligations specified in your bursary contract after graduating. As a bursary recipient, your responsibilities will include maintaining the minimum academic performance standards and attending all lectures and tutorials as required.
Entry Requirements
Commitment to completing your qualification within the prescribed time and willingness to fulfill any work-back obligations. South African citizenship and acceptance or current enrolment at a recognised South African tertiary institution.
Listing Source
This opportunity was sourced from Nasi-Ispani. Always verify final requirements and deadlines on the official source before applying.
How to Apply
Read all the application guidelines carefully before you start. Gather all your required supporting documents and make sure they are certified and clearly scanned. Open the StudyTrust application platform using the link below. Complete the online application form with accurate personal, academic and financial information. Upload all required documents. Submit your application before the closing date. Apply at CISCO Foundation (StudyTrust)
About CISCO Foundation IT
This bursary is offered by CISCO Foundation IT.
Why This Is Good for Starters
This bursary from CISCO Foundation IT 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?
Payment details are not specified. Contact the employer for more information.
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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