Industrial Development Corporation IDC Bursaries
Industrial Development Corporation IDC Bursaries 2027 Now Open
Role Overview
Industrial Development Corporation invites South African students to apply for the IDC External Bursary Programme 2027.
Bursary Application Closing Date: 30 September 2026
The Industrial Development Corporation has opened applications for its External Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year.
This bursary is aimed at academically talented South African students from financially disadvantaged backgrounds who want to study in critical and scarce skills fields.
The IDC Bursary Programme supports students whose studies can contribute to South Africa’s economic growth, industrial development and future skills pipeline.
The bursary is open to current Matric learners planning to study in 2027, as well as current undergraduate students studying in approved fields.
The Industrial Development Corporation is one of South Africa’s leading development finance institutions.
Established in 1940, the IDC plays an important role in promoting industrial growth, economic development, job creation, entrepreneurship and investment across different sectors of the economy.
Through the bursary programme, the IDC invests in future professionals, engineers, scientists, accountants, economists, legal experts, technology specialists and other skilled graduates.
Organisation: Industrial Development CorporationProgramme: IDC External Bursary Programme 2027Opening Date: 01 June 2026Closing Date: 30 September 2026Funding Type: Full study bursaryAge Requirement: Not older than 26 yearsCitizenship: South African citizens onlyInstitution Type: Public universities and universities of technologyQualification Level: Undergraduate and first qualificationApplication Method: Online
The IDC Bursary supports a wide range of qualifications aligned with national development priorities.
Bursaries may be awarded for the following Engineering fields:
Bursaries may be awarded for the following Science and Technology fields:
Bachelor of Science programmes.
Agriculture-related qualifications.
Bursaries may be awarded for the following Finance and Commerce fields:
Cost and Management Accounting.
Postgraduate Law qualifications.
The IDC Bursary provides financial support for selected study-related expenses.
Successful bursary recipients may receive funding for:
Examination fees, where applicable.
University residence accommodation.
University-accredited off-campus accommodation.
Laptop, as a once-off allocation.
This funding package helps students focus on their studies without carrying the full burden of major education-related costs.
Applicants must be South African citizens.
Applicants must have a valid South African ID document.
Applicants must not be older than 26 years.
Applicants must be admitted or planning to study at a South African public university or university of technology.
Applicants must study full-time.
Applicants must be applying for an approved field of study.
Current Grade 12 learners must submit:
Preference will be given to learners with a minimum APS of 75%.
Current university students must have achieved at least a 65% average in their latest academic results.
Students must maintain a minimum GPA of 60% throughout the bursary period.
The IDC Bursary is mainly intended for students from financially disadvantaged households.
Preference will be given to applicants whose combined household income is R350 000 per annum or less.
Applicants from households earning between R350 000 and R600 000 per annum may still be considered.
An affordability assessment will be conducted.
Additional consideration may be given to:
Students living with disabilities.
Learners from Quintile 1, 2 and 3 schools.
Learners from rural communities.
Students from historically disadvantaged communities.
Academically strong candidates.
Applicants demonstrating financial need.
Second qualifications will not be funded.
Most postgraduate qualifications will not be funded.
The bursary mainly supports first undergraduate qualifications.
Honours-level funding may be considered only for the following fields:
Applicants must upload clear copies of all required supporting documents.
Recently certified South African ID copy, not older than 3 months.
Recently certified proof of residence.
2026 mid-year results or latest academic results.
Matric certificate, if already completed.
Grade 11 final results and June 2026 results for current Matric learners.
Where applicable, applicants must submit:
Affidavit for unemployed parents.
Six months’ bank statements for self-employed parents.
SASSA grant confirmation letter.
Death certificates, if parents are deceased.
Certified copies of parents’ IDs.
Divorce certificate, if parents are divorced.
Sworn statement, if parents are separated.
Failure to submit complete supporting documentation may result in disqualification.
Click here to apply for Industrial Development Corporation IDC Bursary South Africa 2027.
Applicants must complete the online application form.
Applicants
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
• Bursaries may be awarded for:
• BCom Law, Commercial Law.
• Bachelor of Laws, LLB.
• Diploma in Law Studies.
• 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
Click here to apply for Industrial Development Corporation IDC Bursary South Africa 2027. Applicants must complete the online application form. Applicants must upload all required supporting documents. Applicants must complete the interview questionnaire. Applicants must ensure that all information submitted is accurate and complete. Applications must be submitted before the closing date.
Email application: ExternalBursaryQueries@idc.co.za, noluthandob@idc.co.za
About Industrial Development Corporation IDC Bursaries
This bursary is offered by Industrial Development Corporation IDC Bursaries.
Why This Is Good for Starters
This bursary from Industrial Development Corporation IDC Bursaries 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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