How to Apply for South Africa Government Scholarships For Citizens and Non-Citizens.
South Africa offers a range of government-funded scholarships aimed at empowering both its citizens and eligible international students. If you’re looking to further your education in South Africa without breaking the bank, South Africa Government Scholarships could be your golden opportunity.
The Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) coordinates several such scholarships, while others are managed by other international, national and provincial departments or government agencies. Scholarships are for South African citizens and require a commitment to return to South African upon completion of studies.
In this comprehensive guide, we break down everything you need to know—whether you’re a South African citizen or a foreign applicant.
South Africa Government Scholarships
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NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) – For South African citizens pursuing higher education in public universities or TVET colleges.
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DHET International Scholarships – Administered by the Department of Higher Education and Training, these cater to both citizens and non-citizens in collaboration with partner governments.
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NRF Scholarships – For postgraduate research in priority science and technology areas.
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South Africa–Cuba Medical Scholarship Programme – For citizens wishing to study medicine in Cuba.
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Partnership Scholarships – Such as the South Africa–China, South Africa–Russia, and South Africa–EU scholarships for international studies.
Who Are The South Africa Government Scholarships For?
South Africa’s government scholarships are designed to support:
- South African citizens from disadvantaged or historically underrepresented communities
- International students from countries that have bilateral or multilateral agreements with South Africa
- Students pursuing undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral degrees
- Fields aligned with national development goals such as health, engineering, education, and science
Who Can Apply for the South Africa Government Scholarship?
For South African Citizens:
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Must be a South African national with a valid ID
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Meet academic merit and financial need criteria (especially for NSFAS)
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Have received an offer or be currently enrolled in an accredited South African institution
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For some international scholarships, must be willing to study abroad and return to serve the country
For Non Citizens:
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Must be a citizen of a country with an existing educational agreement with South Africa
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Hold a valid passport and student visa (if applying for studies in South Africa)
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Must meet academic requirements equivalent to South African standards
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Provide proof of English proficiency (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent)
MORE SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
South Africa Government Scholarship Benefits
The Scholarship covers;
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation and meals
- Books and learning materials
- Living allowance/stipend
- Travel and visa costs (for some international applicants)
- Medical insurance (for international students)
Application Requirements
While specific requirements may vary by program, here’s what you generally need:
For All Applicants:
- Completed application form (online or PDF)
- Certified copies of academic transcripts
- Certified copy of ID or passport
- Proof of university admission or application
- Motivation letter or personal statement
- Reference letters
For postgraduates: research proposal and CV
Non-Citizens:
- English proficiency test scores
- Study permit application
- Health clearance certificate
- Letter of recommendation from home country institution (if applicable)
How to Apply for South Africa Government Scholarships (Step-by-Step Guide)
Step 1.
Visit the Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) website or the NSFAS portal to find a list of open scholarships. Identify ones you qualify for as a citizen or non-citizen.
Step 2.
Download or read the specific eligibility criteria for the scholarship and start assembling your documentation early.
Step 3.
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South African citizens: Apply Using the NSFAS online portal (www.nsfas.org.za) or apply directly to the sponsoring institution.
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Non-citizens: Follow instructions from the DHET International Scholarships or South African embassy websites in your country.
Step 4.
Always note the application deadline. Most scholarships open between August and December for the following academic year. Make sure to submit your application before deadline.
IMPORTANT!
Shortlisted candidates are usually invited for interviews or further assessment. Final selection may take several weeks or months depending on the scholarship.
It is recommended that students or student sponsor/s verify the institution with SAQA before registering and enrolling at a foreign university. This is to determine the accreditation status of the host university abroad and local equivalence of the pursued qualification.
It is recommended that students or student sponsor/s verify the status of the pursued programme with the relevant professional bodies.
Understand fully the implications of pursuing studies outside the Republic of South Africa, especially if there are intentions of practicing in South Africa once qualified (registration with statutory bodies for practice, requirements for such registration if in possession of qualifications obtained outside the country) and to accordingly provide the necessary documentation.
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