Banks, telecoms companies, tech firms and retailers all need IT skills, and many fund students studying IT, computer science or information systems.
IT bursaries for 2027: closing dates
Status as of 26 September 2026. Dates change every year, so always confirm on the sponsor's own website before you apply.
| Bursary | Who it funds | 2027 closing date | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary, via StudyTrust (studytrust.org.za) | First- to fourth-year students in 2027 studying computer science, computer engineering, software engineering or IT. Household income R350,000 to R600,000. | 30 September 2026 | Closes 30 Sep |
| Amazon Recruitment Bursary | Computer science and engineering students | 30 September 2026 | Closes 30 Sep |
| CSIR Bursary Programme 2027 | Science, technology, engineering and maths students | 15 September 2026 | Closed |
Where IT funding comes from
- Company bursaries from banks, insurers, telecoms and tech companies, often with a work-back agreement.
- The MICT SETA, the sector training authority for media, information and communication technologies, funds ICT bursaries and learnerships through universities and employers. You apply through them, not to the SETA directly.
- Universities offer their own bursaries for IT and computer science students.
- NSFAS funds qualifying students at public universities and TVET colleges. See NSFAS 2027.
Check your subjects
Computer science degrees require Mathematics. Some IT diplomas accept Maths Literacy. See subjects needed for IT.
When to apply
Start looking in Grade 11 and apply in Grade 12. Many bursaries close before matric results come out, and deadlines change every year, so check each sponsor's website and set reminders. The EduRance app lists verified bursaries and reminds you before they close.
Stay safe
Legitimate bursary sponsors generally do not charge an application fee. Apply on the sponsor's own website, not through WhatsApp links or agents, and never share your banking PIN or one-time PIN.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get an IT bursary with Maths Literacy?
Some sponsors fund IT diplomas that accept Maths Literacy, but most degree bursaries need Mathematics.
Do IT bursaries cover laptops?
Some do. Check what each bursary covers before you accept it.
Is IT at school required?
No. Most sponsors care more about your Mathematics and English marks.