Bursaries for students who already started university explained. Learn whether second-year, third-year and postgraduate students can apply, who qualifies, what documents you need and how to improve your chances of getting funding.
Many students think they have missed their chance to get financial support because they did not receive a bursary before starting university. Fortunately, that is not always true. Every year, many organisations in South Africa open bursary applications for students who are already studying. Some bursaries accept second-year students, others support students in their third or final year, and many also provide funding for postgraduate studies.
The important thing is understanding which bursaries are available, who qualifies, and when to apply. If you are already registered at a university and worried about paying tuition, accommodation, books or other study costs, this guide explains everything you need to know.
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You Do Not Have to Be a First-Year Student
One of the biggest misconceptions about bursaries is that they are only available to Grade 12 learners or students entering university for the first time.
In reality, many bursary providers prefer students who have already completed their first year because they can see the student’s university results. Good academic performance at university often gives sponsors more confidence that their investment will pay off.
This means starting university without funding does not necessarily mean you must finish your degree without financial assistance.
Many students successfully receive bursaries after proving themselves during their first year.
Can You Apply for a Bursary in Your Second Year?
Yes. In fact, many bursaries are specifically designed for students who are already in their second year.
Some funding organisations want to see your university marks before making a decision. Instead of relying only on your Grade 12 results, they consider how well you are performing in your degree.
You may have a better chance if you:
- Passed all or most of your first-year modules.
- Are registered at a recognised South African university.
- Meet the financial or academic requirements.
- Study a qualification that the bursary supports.
Some bursaries also look beyond marks. They may consider leadership, community involvement or financial need.
If your first year did not go perfectly, do not immediately assume you cannot qualify. Different bursaries have different selection criteria.
Can Third-Year Students Get Bursaries?
Absolutely.
The following are some of the well-known South African bursary programmes that have, in different application cycles, accepted students who are already enrolled at university. Each bursary has its own eligibility requirements, supported fields of study and application dates, so it is important to check the latest criteria before applying.
Here there are:
- National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)
- Sasol
- Nedbank
- Old Mutual
- Exxaro
- Anglo American
- Transnet
- Eskom
- Funza Lushaka Bursary Programme
Many companies and organisations continue funding students until they complete their qualification. Some even prefer students in later years because they are closer to entering the workforce.
Third-year students often have opportunities through bursaries linked to industries experiencing skills shortages.
Examples include:
- Engineering
- Information Technology
- Accounting
- Nursing
- Teaching
- Agriculture
- Health Sciences
- Mining
- Environmental Sciences
Companies investing in these fields often hope graduates will eventually work for them after completing their studies.
This means your chances may actually improve as you progress through your qualification, especially if your academic performance remains strong.
Can Postgraduate Students Apply for Bursaries?
Yes.
Many organisations provide funding for postgraduate qualifications such as:
- Honours degrees
- Postgraduate Diplomas
- Master’s degrees
- Doctoral (PhD) studies
Postgraduate bursaries are often available in specialised fields where South Africa needs more skilled professionals and researchers.
Funding may come from:
- Government departments
- Universities
- Research institutions
- Professional bodies
- Private companies
- Industry organisations
Postgraduate funding sometimes has different requirements from undergraduate bursaries. For example, research proposals, supervisor approval or academic publications may be considered.
If you plan to continue studying after completing your degree, it is worth researching postgraduate funding opportunities early.
Why Some Organisations Fund Continuing Students
Many bursary providers believe university performance is a better indicator of future success than school marks.
For example, a student may have achieved average Grade 12 results but excelled once they reached university.
Sponsors often value:
- Consistent university marks.
- Commitment to completing a qualification.
- Good attendance.
- Professional behaviour.
- Career potential.
This allows students who struggled in school to prove themselves at university.
What Expenses Can These Bursaries Cover?
Not every bursary covers the same costs.
Depending on the provider, funding may include:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Accommodation
- Prescribed textbooks
- Study materials
- Laptop allowance
- Meals
- Transport
- Research costs (for postgraduate students)
Some bursaries are comprehensive, while others only pay tuition.
Always read the bursary conditions carefully before applying so you know exactly what support is included.
Who Can Apply?
Eligibility varies, but many bursaries require applicants to:
- Be South African citizens.
- Be registered or accepted at a recognised institution.
- Meet minimum academic requirements.
- Study an approved qualification.
- Demonstrate financial need where applicable.
- Submit all required supporting documents.
Some bursaries are also limited to students studying specific qualifications or living in certain provinces.
Documents You May Need
Preparing your documents early can help you avoid missing application deadlines.
Commonly requested documents include:
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Latest academic transcript.
- Proof of university registration.
- Proof of household income.
- Parents’ or guardian’s identification documents.
- Proof of residence.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV), if required.
- Motivational letter.
- Academic record.
Some postgraduate bursaries may request additional documents relating to your research or supervisor.
A strong application can improve your chances of success, so it’s worth learning how to write a bursary motivation letter before submitting your application.
Tips to Improve Your Chances
Competition for bursaries can be high, but careful preparation can make your application stronger.
Here are a few practical tips:
Apply to More Than One Bursary
Do not rely on a single application.
Different organisations have different requirements, so applying broadly can increase your chances.
Meet Every Requirement
Many applications are rejected simply because documents are missing or applicants ignore the eligibility criteria.
Before submitting your application, double-check every requirement.
Keep Your Academic Record Strong
Although not every bursary requires outstanding marks, consistent academic performance can significantly improve your chances.
If possible, avoid repeating modules and complete your assignments on time.
Write a Genuine Motivation Letter
If a motivation letter is required, explain:
- Why you need financial assistance.
- Your career goals.
- How the bursary will help you complete your studies.
- What you hope to contribute after graduating.
Avoid copying examples from the internet. Selection committees often recognise generic applications.
Common Mistakes Students Make
Many students miss opportunities because of avoidable mistakes.
Some of the most common include:
- Assuming only first-year students qualify.
- Applying after the deadline.
- Uploading incorrect documents.
- Ignoring qualification requirements.
- Applying without reading the bursary rules.
- Waiting until the last minute.
Planning ahead can prevent these mistakes.
When Should You Start Looking?
The best time to search for bursaries is before your current academic year ends.
Many organisations open applications several months before the next academic year begins.
Checking regularly throughout the year gives you more opportunities than waiting until registration time.
Creating a calendar of closing dates can help you stay organised.
Where Can You Find Bursaries for Continuing Students?
You can also check your university’s financial aid office and trusted funding databases such as the National Student Financial Aid Scheme bursary portal , which publishes information about student funding and financial aid.
Always verify that the application is genuine before submitting personal information. Avoid organisations that ask applicants to pay application fees, as legitimate bursaries generally do not charge to apply.
What If You Already Receive Other Financial Support?
Some bursaries allow students to receive additional funding, while others do not.
Always read the bursary rules carefully.
If you currently receive financial assistance, check whether accepting another bursary is permitted and whether you need to inform your existing sponsor.
Being transparent can prevent problems later.
What You Should Remember
Starting university without a bursary does not mean you have lost your chance to receive funding. Every year, South African organisations support students who are already studying, whether they are in their second year, third year or pursuing postgraduate qualifications.
The key is to stay informed, prepare your documents early, maintain good academic progress and apply before closing dates. Even if one application is unsuccessful, another opportunity may be a better fit for your course, academic record or financial situation.
Persistence matters. Many students only receive funding after applying more than once. By continuing to search for legitimate bursary opportunities and submitting complete, well-prepared applications, you can improve your chances of finding financial support that helps you complete your studies.