NESP

NESP Scholarship

Bursary
NESP
South Africa
Market Related
Fixed Term
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Role Overview

The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) is one of the departments of the South African government, responsible for overseeing universities and other post-secondary education in South Africa.

The DHET formed the Nurturing Emerging Scholar’s Programme (NESP) in 2020, with the aim of transforming higher education in the country. The national implementation of the programme, one of the Staffing South Africa’s Universities’ Programme (SSAUF), is in partnership with Rhodes University.

The Department of Higher Education and Training is inviting students to apply for Phase 2 of the Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme (NESP), for the 2024 academic year. The scholarships are awarded for Postgraduate (Honours and Masters) studies at selected universities.

Opportunity 1: a 4 year programme, which includes a 1 year Honours program, followed by a 2 year Master’s scholarship, and a 1 year academic internship at the host South African university. Scholarships will be awarded for Honours studies at the following institutions:

Opportunity 2: a 3 year programme, which includes a 2 year Master’s scholarship, followed by a 1 year academic internship at the host South African university. Scholarships will be awarded for Masters studies at the following institutions:

www.zabursaries.co.za is committed to keeping you up to date with the latest bursary opportunities, and this article covers all details about the NESP Scholarship.

Scholars will receive the following benefits:

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

• Applicants must satisfy the following minimum entry criteria before applying for the bursary (please note that failure to satisfy all the requirements will lead to your application not being considered):
• You must be a South African citizen
• You must NOT be older than 35 years old
• You must have completed an NQF level 7 qualification
• You must have achieved a minimum overall average of 65% for your NQF level 7 qualification
• You must be studying or intend on studying full-time towards a Honours or Masters degree qualification, in one of the fields listed above
• You must be studying or intend on studying at one of the public South African universities listed above
• You must be able to start your studies at the beginning of the 2024 academic year
• You must be interested in becoming an academic

Listing Source

This opportunity was sourced from ZABursaries. Always verify final requirements and deadlines on the official source before applying.

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How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online NESP Scholarship Applications 2024 Enter “www.zabursaries.co.za” in the field asking how you heard about the NESP Scholarship. Submit clear copies of the following supporting documentation along with your completed application (the submission of these documents is compulsory – if any items are missing, your application may be disqualified): ID document (certified copy) Matric certificate (certified copy) Academic transcripts (certified copy) Degree certificates (certified copy) Proof of registration, if currently studying Curriculum Vitae with details of any previous employment (maximum 2 pages) Motivational letter (answering the following: why you should be awarded the scholarship, how you think this opportunity will assist in your self-development, contribution you intend to make to your community and society, your career plans and how will this opportunity help to advance them, role you see yourself playing in the higher education sector in the future, any other important factors) (maximum of 30 lines) 2 academic references who can attest to your suitability for this programme (make sure that your referees know they will be contacted regarding your application)

About NESP

This bursary is offered by NESP.

Why This Is Good for Starters

This bursary from NESP 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. Many bursary programmes also include vacation work placements and guaranteed employment after graduation, giving you both education and career security.

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

  1. Read the full job description carefully before applying
  2. Prepare an updated CV tailored to this specific role
  3. Prepare your academic transcripts and proof of financial need
  4. Write a motivation letter explaining your career goals
  5. Apply as soon as possible — positions may close without notice
  6. Double-check your contact details are correct on your CV
  7. 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?

No closing date specified. Apply as soon as possible as positions may fill quickly.

Similar Opportunities

Ready to Apply?

Submit your application directly on NESP's careers portal.

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