10 Platforms to Find Bursaries in South Africa

Discover 10 reliable platforms to find bursaries in South Africa, including websites, portals, and university resources to fund your studies.

When I was in matric and searching for bursaries, it was a stressful and time-consuming process. I had to search company by company, figuring out which ones offered bursaries. Sometimes I would find a bursary, only to realize the application deadline had already passed.

The goal of this article is to ensure that you don’t go through the same struggle. Instead, you can use these 10 platforms to easily search for bursaries by industry, date, or institution.

1. Bursaries South Africa (ZA Bursaries)

This site allows you to search bursaries by discipline or industry. The filters make it easy to find bursaries that are still open, closing soon, or relevant to your field.

It also features useful articles and categories, such as “Open Bursary Applications” or “Bursaries Closing in January.”

2. Bursaries South Africa (BSA)

BSA provides bursaries for undergraduates and has a section with sponsored searches, such as “Open Bursaries 2021.”

Although the bursary listings are at the bottom of the page (not the most convenient), you can still find bursaries categorized by industry.

3. All Bursaries SA

All Bursaries has a slightly confusing landing page at first, but once you scroll down, you’ll see bursaries listed by industry.

One standout feature is their bursary calendar, which shows bursaries closing each month (January, February, March, etc.). This helps ensure you never miss an application deadline.

4. Student Room

Student Room offers more than just bursaries — it also lists internships, learnerships, and apprenticeships.

Bursaries appear in chronological order by posting date, rather than by category. While less organized, it’s still useful if you want to browse recent opportunities.

5. Career Wise

Unlike the previous platforms, Career Wise is a bursary service where you can apply directly on the platform.

You can create a profile and submit applications for available bursaries. If you’ve used Career Wise, sharing your experience in the comments can help others.

6. Careers Portal

Careers Portal is a versatile site with resources for work opportunities, funding, studying, and career advice.

It’s useful not only for bursaries but also for general career development.

7. Online Applications 24

This site includes bursary listings, university prospectuses, student loan information, and application updates.

One useful feature is bursaries organized by university. For example, under UCT, you’ll find entrance scholarships, financial assistance options, and external funding opportunities.

8. CollegeList.co.za

College List features bursaries, online applications, registration details, and courses at South African institutions.

The bursaries are not categorized by industry, but you can also browse by courses offered at different universities.

9. Career Help (Department of Higher Education and Training)

Career Help is a government platform offering information for learners, students, unemployed youth, job seekers, and parents.

The bursaries are divided into categories like private companies, government bursaries, and scholarships, each with closing dates listed.

10. University Websites

Finally, don’t forget the official websites of universities and higher education institutions. Most have dedicated sections listing bursaries, scholarships, and financial aid options.

This is often the most reliable source of updated funding opportunities.

Conclusion

There you have it — 10 platforms to help you find bursaries in South Africa. These resources will make the application process simpler and more organized, saving you time and effort.

If you found this useful, please share it with others who may be searching for bursary opportunities.

nderstanding the Difference Between Undergraduate and Postgraduate Studies

Choosing whether to continue your studies after completing your undergraduate degree is a big decision. Many students aren’t aware of how different postgraduate studies are from undergraduate programs, both in structure and in expectation.

If you’re unsure whether to study further or go straight into the working world, this guide breaks down the key differences, explains what postgraduate study involves, and shares practical tips to help you prepare for this next step.

What Is the Main Difference Between Undergraduate and Postgraduate Studies?

The biggest difference between undergraduate and postgraduate studies lies in research.

During your undergraduate degree, your grades are determined mostly by:

Lectures and tutorials
Tests and exams
Coursework and assignments

In contrast, postgraduate studies—whether Honours, Master’s, or PhD—focus heavily on independent research. You’ll complete a research paper or dissertation, which makes up the bulk of your final mark.

Some undergraduate programs, especially those that include an Honours component, may include a small research project. But in postgraduate studies, your research becomes the core of your academic work.

What Is a Research Paper?

A research paper is an academic project where you explore a specific topic related to your field of study. You’ll be expected to:

Conduct original research or critical analysis
Write a detailed paper that contributes to existing knowledge
Present your findings in a clear, structured format

You won’t be doing this alone—you’ll have a supervisor who guides you throughout the process. Unlike undergrad, where you mostly learn in large lecture halls, postgraduate supervision is one-on-one. Your supervisor will help refine your topic, guide your methodology, and provide feedback as you write.

How to Prepare for Postgraduate Studies

Thinking of doing your Honours or Master’s? Here’s how to prepare while you’re still an undergraduate:

1. Find a Research Topic That Excites You

Start thinking about potential research areas early. Reflect on subjects within your degree that you’re passionate about—topics you could imagine studying for months on end.

Speak to your lecturers and potential supervisors about what interests you most. They can help you refine your ideas and identify areas worth exploring further.

Tip: Choose a topic you genuinely care about. Passion will keep you motivated when the workload gets heavy.

2. Start Reading Academic Papers

Familiarize yourself with how research is written. Read academic papers within your discipline to understand:

How research questions are framed
The structure of a paper
The tone and style used in academic writing

This not only helps you prepare for your own research but can also inspire new ways to approach your topic.

Remember, your goal isn’t to repeat existing studies—it’s to offer a fresh perspective or uncover something new within your field.

Five Tips for Current Postgraduate Students

If you’re already pursuing your postgraduate studies, here are five tips to make your journey smoother:

1. Manage Your Time

Postgraduate studies are largely self-directed. Create a realistic schedule that balances research, writing, and personal commitments.

2. Ask for Help

You’re not expected to know everything. Reach out to your supervisor, peers, or academic support staff when you get stuck. Collaboration is key.

3. Break Down Your Tasks

You can’t do everything at once. Prioritize tasks by importance and deadline. Focus on completing one section of your research at a time.

4. Use Academic Resources

While general searches are helpful, always rely on academic databases like Google Scholar, JSTOR, or your university library’s resources. This ensures your references are credible and research-based.

5. Don’t Aim for Perfection—Just Start

The hardest part of research is getting started. Write your first draft without worrying about perfection. You can always refine, edit, and improve later.

Done is better than perfect—especially when deadlines are looming.

Final Thoughts

The transition from undergraduate to postgraduate study can be challenging but deeply rewarding. It’s a chance to take ownership of your learning, explore your passions in depth, and contribute meaningfully to your field.

If you’re considering postgraduate studies, start thinking about your topic now, build good research habits, and reach out to mentors early.

And if you’ve already begun your postgraduate journey—remember to pace yourself, ask for help, and trust the process.

How to Build a Strong CV as a Student: Tips to Stand Out From Other Candidates

Because a great CV isn’t just about your qualifications — it’s about your story.

When you think of a CV, the first thing that comes to mind is probably a neat document with your name, contact details, and a list of achievements. But here’s the truth: a strong CV starts long before you ever type it up.

Many students know they need a CV, but few know when to start building it — or what exactly to include. In this article, we’ll break down what makes a CV truly stand out, the right time to start working on yours, and practical steps to help you become part of the top 10% of applicants.

Why You’re Really Creating a CV

Yes, you’re putting together a CV to apply for an opportunity — but what are employers actually looking for when they read it?

1. They want to see your skills

Employers are scanning your CV for evidence of skills that match the role or industry. These can be technical skills (like coding, writing, or design) or soft skills (like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving).

They want to know:

Have you applied these skills in real-life situations?
Can you contribute value from day one?

2. They want to know if you’re a team player

Most jobs require collaboration. Recruiters want to see if you’ve worked in a team, taken responsibility, or contributed toward a shared goal.

Think about moments where you’ve:

Led or supported a group project
Solved conflicts in a team
Helped organize an event or initiative

Even if these experiences aren’t from a formal job, they matter — they show how you function in a team, and that’s gold on a CV.

What Makes a CV Great (Beyond Design and Formatting)

Yes, presentation matters — but substance matters more. The strongest CVs don’t just look good; they showcase experiences that prove your potential.

To build that kind of CV, you need to start doing things worth putting in it.

Here’s how:

1. Join organizations and volunteer

Start by getting involved in clubs, societies, or community projects. These experiences help you develop transferable skills — like communication, leadership, and collaboration — that make you a stronger candidate later.

2. Take up leadership or initiative roles

Whether you’re leading a small team or managing a project, these moments show your ability to take responsibility and drive results.

3. Document your experiences

Don’t just do the work — record it. Keep a record of:

What the project was about
What your role was
What the team achieved
Specifically, how you contributed

Employers don’t just want to know what your team achieved — they want to know what you did.

How to Start Building Your Portfolio

Once you’ve gained some experience, it’s time to showcase it. A portfolio helps you visually and practically demonstrate your skills, especially in creative or technical fields.

Here’s how to tailor your portfolio depending on your field:

🎨 Design/Architecture: Include drawings, plans, or completed projects.
🧠 Consulting/Corporate: Include case studies, leadership experiences, or problem-solving examples.
📸 Media/Creative industries: Add links to videos, designs, or social media campaigns you’ve worked on.

Keep your portfolio simple, clear, and updated. Think of it as the visual evidence that backs up your CV.

Practice Talking About Your Experience

When interviewers ask questions like “Tell us about a time you led a team” or “How did you handle conflict?” — they’re testing how well you can reflect on your experiences.

Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) when describing your contributions:

Situation: What was happening?
Task: What needed to be done?
Action: What did you do?
Result: What was the outcome?

For example:

“Our team had to plan a campus event. I was responsible for contacting performers, securing refreshments, and coordinating logistics. The event was a success, and attendance exceeded expectations.”

That’s the kind of clear, confident storytelling employers remember.

Final Thoughts: Your CV Is a Reflection of Your Journey

Your CV isn’t just about your qualifications — it’s about your growth, initiative, and impact.

Every project, volunteer role, and leadership opportunity you take adds another layer to your story. So start now. Get involved in your community, take initiative, and document everything.

That way, when the time comes to apply, you’ll already have everything you need to stand out.

Key Takeaways

✅ Start early — build experiences before you need them.
✅ Get involved — volunteer, lead, and collaborate.
✅ Document everything — track your achievements.
✅ Showcase your impact — focus on what you did.
✅ Practice storytelling — your CV should tell a clear, confident story.

How to Choose the Right Degree: 10 Steps to Make an Informed Decision

Choosing a degree to study can feel overwhelming. With so many options and so much at stake — your education, career prospects, and personal growth — it’s normal to feel unsure. But with the right guidance, research, and reflection, you can make a well-informed and confident choice.

Here’s a step-by-step roadmap to help you pick the degree that’s right for you.

1. Self-Reflection: Know Yourself First

Before looking at programs or institutions, take a step back and reflect on yourself:

What are your strengths and weaknesses?
What are you passionate about?
What activities excite or motivate you?

Understanding your interests and natural abilities is key. Your degree should align with what energizes you, because your enthusiasm will carry you through challenging courses and long-term career paths.

2. Research Potential Careers

Once you have a sense of your interests, research the careers that align with them. Consider:

Salary ranges and job market demand
Required qualifications and entry pathways
Growth prospects and future opportunities

This step ensures that your passion is also practical, giving you a sustainable career path rather than just something you enjoy without clear opportunities.

3. Consider Your Aptitude

Passion alone isn’t enough — you also need to assess your skills and abilities.

Can you realistically perform in the field?
Are there skills you already possess, or can reasonably learn?

Remember, anyone can master a skill with time and dedication. But it’s wise not to start with a field where you have no foundational ability or interest in learning the essentials.

4. Explore Degree Programs

Now that you’ve narrowed down your industry or career path, look into specific programs:

Institutions offering relevant courses
Curriculum structure and learning outcomes
Opportunities for growth and development
Alumni network and connections

Choosing the right program ensures you get the training and exposure you need to succeed.

5. Seek Guidance

Don’t make your decision in isolation. Speak with:

Mentors and teachers
Career counselors
Industry professionals

They can help you evaluate your choices, point out blind spots, and provide insights you might not find through online research alone.

6. Consider Future Trends

The job market is constantly evolving. Consider:

Emerging industries and growing sectors
Skills that are becoming more valuable
Roles that might be less relevant in the future

By aligning your degree with future trends, you increase your long-term marketability and adaptability.

7. Gain Experiential Learning

Whenever possible, immerse yourself in real-world experiences:

Internships, vacation work, or job shadowing
Visits to industry environments

Experiential learning helps you understand what day-to-day work is really like, avoiding surprises later and confirming whether a career truly fits your lifestyle and goals.

8. Choose Flexible, Transferable Programs

Select programs that teach skills you can apply across industries. This flexibility is essential as industries evolve and new opportunities arise. Even if your chosen field changes, transferable skills ensure you can pivot without starting from scratch.

9. Embrace Personal Growth

Your first degree or career path isn’t set in stone. Many people pivot later in life to new fields or interests.

Check in with yourself regularly
Reassess your goals and passions
Make informed decisions when considering a change

Growth and evolution are natural — but ensure you distinguish between true career pivots and simply running from challenges.

10. Be Authentic

Finally, stay true to yourself. Avoid choosing a degree simply because it seems prestigious, popular, or “expected.”

Your potential is unique
Your impact is distinct
The right degree allows you to express your authenticity and fulfill your purpose

When you embrace authenticity, all other considerations — passion, aptitude, market trends — align more effectively.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a degree isn’t just about earning a qualification — it’s about embarking on a transformative educational journey that sets the foundation for your future.

Take your time, reflect deeply, do thorough research, involve mentors and peers, and ensure the choice aligns with your passions, skills, and long-term goals.

With these 10 steps, you’ll be better equipped to pick a degree that’s both meaningful and practical.

Quick Recap of the 10 Steps:

Self-reflection: Understand your passions and strengths
Research potential careers
Assess your aptitude
Explore degree programs
Seek guidance
Consider future trends
Gain experiential learning
Choose flexible and transferable programs
Embrace personal growth
Be authentic