StudyTrust Bursary 2026: Applications Open – How to Apply Online Before the Deadline

 

Looking for a bursary to help pay for your studies in 2026 or 2027?
The StudyTrust bursary application platform is now open.

StudyTrust helps connect talented South African students with bursary and scholarship opportunities.

The application platform opened on 1 June 2026.

Most bursary applications close on 30 September 2026. However, some opportunities have different closing dates.

If you need financial support for university, college, TVET or high school, this opportunity is worth exploring.

👉 Follow the Job OPPORTUNITY 2025 channel on WhatsApp:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb2fWvZ5K3zXcrrnY631

StudyTrust Bursary 2026: What You Need to Know

StudyTrust manages bursaries and scholarships for several sponsors.

These sponsors include trusts, foundations, private donors and corporate organisations.

The exciting part is simple.

You only need to submit one StudyTrust application.

Your application can then be considered for multiple bursaries.

StudyTrust will match your information with bursaries where you meet the requirements.

This can save students considerable time.

However, you should still apply for other opportunities.

For example, StudyTrust encourages students to consider NSFAS and other bursary programmes.

Who Can Apply for a StudyTrust Bursary?

StudyTrust bursaries are available across several education levels.

However, every bursary has its own requirements.

1. University Students

Most StudyTrust bursaries are aimed at full-time university students.

Many opportunities focus on critical and scarce skills.

Both undergraduate and postgraduate students may find opportunities.

Your academic performance, financial situation and chosen qualification matter.

2. University of Technology Students

A limited number of bursaries are available.

Applicants generally need to study full-time.

You should also have passed all your subjects.

Your programme should prepare you for a career in demand.

3. TVET and Agricultural College Students

Some bursary opportunities are available for full-time students.

These include students attending TVET and Agricultural Colleges.

Because opportunities are limited, apply as early as possible.

4. High School Learners

StudyTrust administers a high school bursary programme.

It covers learners in Grades 10 to 12.

The programme targets top achievers.

Applicants should have marks of 90% or higher in Mathematics and Accounting or Physical Science, according to the stated criteria.

StudyTrust Bursary Selection Criteria

StudyTrust says bursary selection focuses on three important areas:

• Academic potential

• Financial need

• Your chosen study programme

This means good marks alone may not guarantee funding.

Your financial circumstances and qualification are also important.

Some sponsors specifically support students studying scarce or critical skills.

Therefore, make sure you enter your qualification correctly.

Household Income Requirements

Financial need is an important part of the application.

Different sponsors have different income requirements.

Some bursaries support students who qualify for an NSFAS-administered bursary.

Other sponsors focus on households considered part of the “missing middle.”

Some sponsors define missing-middle households as having a combined annual gross income between approximately R350,000 and R700,000.

StudyTrust states that it does not have bursaries available for applicants from households with combined annual income above R850,000.

Always check the specific requirements of each bursary.

Documents Needed for the StudyTrust Application

Don't wait until the last minute to collect your documents.

You will need supporting documents before submitting your application.

South African ID

Prepare a certified copy of your South African ID.

Make sure the document is clear and readable.

Academic Record

You need your latest academic results.

For university students, this can include your first-semester 2026 examination results or progress report.

High school applicants have different requirements.

Current Grade 12 learners should prepare:

• Final Grade 11 results

• Second-term 2026 report card

Learners in Grades 9, 10 or 11 applying for the high school bursary should provide:

• 2025 final report card

• Second-term 2026 report card

Applicants who completed Grade 12 should provide their official Matric or NSC results.

Proof of Address

Some bursaries have geographical requirements.

For example, certain renewable-energy sponsors may require applicants to live within a specific distance from a plant.

Your proof of address can therefore be important.

Proof of Household Income

StudyTrust may require income information from parents or legal guardians.

Possible documents include:

• Salary or wage slips

• Unemployment affidavits

• Self-employment affidavits

• Business financial statements

• Recent bank statements

• SASSA documentation

• Death certificates

• Child-support documentation

Make sure your documents accurately reflect your household circumstances.

Recent Photograph

You also need a clear, recent head-and-shoulders photograph.

Use a good-quality image.

Avoid blurry or heavily edited photographs.

How to Apply for the StudyTrust Bursary 2026

The application process is completed online.

Start by visiting the official StudyTrust bursary application page.

StudyTrust Bursary Applications:
https://studytrust.org.za/bursary-applications/

Before starting, gather your documents.

You will need to provide personal information.

You will also provide information about your studies and academic performance.

Household income information is also required.

The application starts with consent for StudyTrust to collect, store and share your information with designated third parties.

This is done according to the POPI Act.

Important: Be Accurate on Your Application

One of the biggest mistakes applicants make is entering incorrect information.

StudyTrust receives thousands of applications.

Initial screening uses the information provided.

For example, a bursary could require a specific qualification and academic year.

Incorrect information could prevent your application from being considered.

Check your:

• Name and surname

• ID number

• Institution

• Qualification

• Academic year

• Programme start date

• Programme end date

• Academic results

• Household income

Double-check everything before submitting.

Your Essay Could Make a Difference

Some applicants rush through the essay questions.

Don't make that mistake.

Your essay gives sponsors an opportunity to understand your story.

Explain your goals honestly.

Talk about your education.

Explain why your chosen career matters to you.

Describe your future ambitions.

Most importantly, write the essay yourself.

StudyTrust specifically warns applicants not to use AI to write their essays.

AI may be used to check spelling or grammar, but your answers should be your own original work.

Sponsors want to hear your voice and your story.

Not Sure What to Study?

Choosing the right qualification can be difficult.

Especially when you are finishing Grade 12.

StudyTrust recommends career guidance resources such as Pace Career Centre and CareerXplora.

These resources can help you explore suitable careers and study programmes.

Doing career research before applying can help you make a stronger study decision.

Don't Wait Until September

The application platform may become busy as the deadline approaches.

StudyTrust warns that applicants may experience slower platform performance closer to closing dates.

That's why applying early is a smart move.

Don't wait until the final week.

Prepare your documents now.

Check your eligibility.

Complete your application carefully.

Then submit it before the relevant closing date.

Important StudyTrust Bursary Scam Warning

Be careful when someone asks you to pay for a StudyTrust bursary.

StudyTrust states that its bursaries are never for sale.

It also says applications are handled directly.

StudyTrust does not work through intermediaries or external organisations for its bursary applications.

If someone claims they can guarantee you a bursary for payment, be cautious.

Never send money simply because someone promises you funding.

Final Words: Apply Early and Give Yourself a Chance

Paying for tertiary education can be challenging.

A bursary can make a major difference to your future.

StudyTrust has awarded thousands of bursaries and scholarships over the years.

The organisation says it has more than 50 years of experience and has awarded more than R1 billion in bursaries.

If you meet the requirements, consider applying.

Remember that one StudyTrust application can potentially match you with multiple bursary opportunities.

Don't limit yourself to one funding option.

Apply for StudyTrust.

Explore NSFAS.

Look for other legitimate bursaries.

And always check the official requirements.

🔗 Apply for the StudyTrust Bursary

Official application page:
https://studytrust.org.za/bursary-applications/

📲 Get More Bursaries, Jobs and Opportunities

Want more updates about bursaries, jobs, internships, learnerships and career opportunities in South Africa?

👉 Follow the Job OPPORTUNITY 2025 channel on WhatsApp:
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029Vb2fWvZ5K3zXcrrnY631

Your next opportunity could be one application away. Don't miss it!

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