If you want to keep playing sport at a high level while earning a university degree, the TuksSport Sport Performance Support Bursary could be your ticket – but the deadline is fast approaching.
What is the opportunity?
The University of Pretoria’s TuksSport department is offering a bursary for the 2027 academic year. It supports student‑athletes in 25 different sports. The award is paid for one full‑time study year and must be re‑applied for each new year.
Who can apply?
You are eligible if you meet all of the following:
- Plan to study full‑time at the University of Pretoria in 2027.
- Have been accepted into a recognised programme (you do not need to study sport‑related subjects).
- Are a top performer in one of the 25 supported sports.
- Will register as a full‑time student before the bursary is awarded.
- Are willing to join TuksSport training, events and development programmes.
- Are under 18? You must have a parent or legal guardian sign the application.
What will you gain?
The bursary helps you continue developing your sporting talent while you work towards a degree. You will receive:
- Financial support (amount varies per sport and available funds).
- Access to professional coaching and high‑performance facilities.
- Opportunities to compete in University Sport South Africa, Varsity Sport and international events.
- Mentoring and monitoring of both academic and sporting progress.
How to apply – step by step
- Check that your sport is on the approved list (see below).
- Apply for admission to the University of Pretoria through the official admission portal and meet its deadline.
- Gather all required documents:
- A high‑resolution action photograph (A5 JPEG).
- Grade‑11 results (if you are finishing Grade 12).
- A detailed Sports Curriculum Vitae.
- Evidence of leadership, cultural or community involvement.
- The completed Sports Performance Support Application (generated online).
- Fill in the online bursary form at the official portal: TuksSport 2027 Bursary Application.
- Double‑check every field for accuracy. Incomplete or incorrect information will disqualify you.
- If you are under 18, obtain the required guardian signature before submitting.
- Submit the form before 31 July 2026. Late entries are not considered.
Supported sporting codes
- Archery, athletics, badminton, basketball, canoe
- Chess, cricket, cycling, fencing, football
- Golf, gymnastics, hockey, judo, karate
- Netball, rowing, rugby, squash, swimming
- Tennis, trampoline, triathlon, volleyball, wrestling
Only one sport can be funded per academic year.
Tips to improve your chances
- Start your application early – don’t wait for the deadline.
- Use a clear, dated Sports CV that lists competitions, rankings, results and your current training plan.
- Include any provincial, national or international achievements.
- Explain how you will keep training during school exams and before university starts.
- Proofread all documents; blurry photos or missing pages hurt your application.
- Make sure the guardian signature is present if required.
- Remember that a strong sporting record does not guarantee funding; club needs and available money also matter.
After you submit
You should receive an acknowledgement within three weeks. Keep this confirmation and a copy of every document you uploaded. If you do not hear back, contact the relevant TuksSport club.
Successful applicants will sign an annual contract outlining academic expectations, training attendance and conduct. Funding can be reduced or withdrawn if you do not meet the agreed standards, and you may have to repay the amount.
Final thoughts
The TuksSport Sport Performance Support Bursary 2027 offers a valuable pathway to combine elite sport with a tertiary qualification. By presenting a complete, accurate application and showcasing both your current results and future potential, you give yourself the best possible chance.
Ready to start? Gather your documents, follow the steps above, and submit before 31 July 2026. Good luck!
About the author
Itumeleng Ndlovu is the Founder and Managing Editor of SETA Careers, a South African platform that publishes reliable information on bursaries, learnerships, internships and other skills‑development programmes. She helps students navigate complex application processes with clear, up‑to‑date guidance.