Tomorrow Trust
Tomorrow Trust Bursary Programme 2027
Role Overview
The Tomorrow Trust has opened applications for its Tertiary Bursary STEM Programme 2027, offering full funding plus personal support to South African students from under-resourced communities. The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, living costs, textbooks and equipment for students in Engineering, IT and Computer Science, and Science fields at public universities.
Young people aged 18 to 35 in Gauteng, Western Cape, Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal can apply before the closing date of 30 September 2026.
Tomorrow Trust is a South African non-profit organisation that has spent more than 20 years breaking the cycle of inequality through education. It supports children and young people from under-resourced communities from Grade R all the way through tertiary education and into the world of work.
What makes this bursary different from most funding schemes is its holistic approach. Tomorrow Trust does not treat education as academics alone. Its work rests on four integrated pillars: academic support, psychosocial support, digital skills development and career guidance. Bursary recipients are not simply handed money and left to cope. They receive year-round mentorship, counselling, coaching and masterclasses designed to make sure they finish their degrees and step confidently into employment, entrepreneurship or further study. Graduates join a lifelong alumni community of changemakers.
Full tuition fees at a South African public university
Prescribed textbooks and essential academic equipment
Psychosocial support and counselling throughout your studies
One-on-one mentorship and academic coaching
Career coaching including CV writing, interview preparation and job search support
Monthly masterclasses led by industry specialists
Digital skills training and financial literacy support
Networking opportunities, vacation work exposure and a strong peer and alumni network
South African citizens aged 18 to 35
Students planning to study, or already studying, at a South African public university in 2027
Students from under-resourced communities who need financial support
Applicants in these fields of study: Engineering, IT and Computer Science, or Science
Applicants from Gauteng, Western Cape, Limpopo or KwaZulu-Natal
Undergraduate students, and postgraduate students where applicable
Proof of registration or acceptance at a public university
Proof of household income, including the last 3 salary or wage payslips where applicable
Affidavit of unemployment for unemployed parents or guardians
Death certificate for a deceased parent, where applicable
Gather all the required documents listed above and make sure they are clear and legible.
Create a free account on the Bursio platform, which Tomorrow Trust uses to manage applications.
Complete your online profile and upload your supporting documents.
Write an honest motivation letter that explains your circumstances and your passion for your chosen STEM field.
Review your application carefully and submit it before the deadline.
Start your application here: Apply at Tomorrow Trust (via Bursio)
The closing date for the Tomorrow Trust Bursary Programme 2027 is 30 September 2026. No late applications will be accepted.
Thousands of academically capable South African students never reach university, or drop out once they get there, purely because of money. Even students with NSFAS funding often struggle with hidden costs like textbooks, equipment and food. The Tomorrow Trust bursary removes those barriers completely, and then goes further by supporting the whole person, not just the fees.
STEM graduates remain among the most employable in South Africa, with engineering, IT and science skills in constant demand across the economy. For a young person from an under-resourced community, this bursary is more than funding. It is a structured pathway from matric to a professional career, with support at every step.
Related: Schauenburg Education Trust Bursary 2027
Q: Can current university students apply, or only matriculants?Both. First-time entrants and students already at a public university can apply, as long as they meet the age and field-of-study criteria.
Q: Which provinces are eligible?The programme currently accepts applicants from Gauteng, Western Cape, Limpopo and KwaZulu-Natal.
Q: Does the bursary cover private colleges?No. The bursary is for study at South African public universities.
Q: What support do I get beyond the money?Recipients receive mentorship, psychosocial counselling, academic coaching, career guidance, digital skills training and access to networking and vacation work opportunities, plus a lifelong alumni community after graduation.
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
South African citizenship and acceptance or current enrolment at a recognised South African tertiary institution. A strong academic record meeting the minimum requirements and demonstrated financial need where applicable.
Listing Source
This opportunity was sourced from Nasi-Ispani. Always verify final requirements and deadlines on the official source before applying.
How to Apply
Gather all the required documents listed above and make sure they are clear and legible. Create a free account on the Bursio platform, which Tomorrow Trust uses to manage applications. Complete your online profile and upload your supporting documents. Write an honest motivation letter that explains your circumstances and your passion for your chosen STEM field. Review your application carefully and submit it before the deadline. Start your application here: Apply at Tomorrow Trust (via Bursio)
About Tomorrow Trust
This bursary is offered by Tomorrow Trust.
Why This Is Good for Starters
This bursary from Tomorrow Trust 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.
Similar Opportunities
Ready to Apply?
Submit your application directly on Tomorrow Trust's careers portal.
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