Free State Provincial Government Full Time Bursary Programme offers a chance for unemployed South Africans aged 18‑35 to study a degree or diploma in 2027 with many costs covered. Applications close at 16:00 on 13 November 2026.
What the opportunity is
The Office of the Premier in the Free State will fund full‑time students for the 2027 academic year. The bursary targets fields that the province needs urgently, such as engineering, finance and social sciences. Funding is not available for every course – you must study a qualification that falls within the priority list.
Who can apply
- South African citizen
- Resident of the Free State Province
- Age between 18 and 35
- Currently unemployed
- Intending to study – or already studying – for a Degree or Diploma
- Qualification must be in a priority area (see list below)
- Study at a recognised, accredited university or university of technology in South Africa
- Willing to work in the relevant sector after graduation
- Not receiving any other government funding (e.g., NSFAS)
- Preference may be given to previously disadvantaged applicants
Priority study fields
- Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM)
- Commerce and Business studies
- Finance, Economics and Accounting
- Psychology and other Social Sciences
- Aviation studies
- Bachelor of Administration programmes
- Public Governance
- Developmental Studies
Check that your exact degree or diploma matches one of these categories before you apply.
What you gain
The bursary can cover more than just tuition fees. Possible benefits include:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation (where applicable)
- Prescribed textbooks
- Learning‑aid devices (where applicable)
- Meals
- Transport (where applicable)
- A monthly living allowance (where applicable – amount not fixed in public information)
“Where applicable” means the exact package depends on your individual circumstances.
How to apply
- Visit the official portal: Free State Bursary Application.
- Create an account using a personal email you check regularly.
- Fill in your personal and academic details exactly as they appear on official documents.
- Upload clear, readable scans of all required files (ID, proof of residence, results, etc.).
- Review every field, then submit before 16:00 on 13 November 2026.
Tips to improve your chances
- Start gathering documents now – ID, matric results, proof of residence, and any university acceptance letters.
- Confirm that your chosen qualification is on the priority list by contacting the bursary office with the full programme name.
- Do not create multiple accounts; one account is enough.
- Submit your application a few days before the deadline to avoid system overload.
- Make sure every uploaded file is clear and legible; blurry scans are rejected.
- Do not rely on unofficial websites that claim a fixed monthly stipend.
- If you are already receiving NSFAS or another government award, you must not apply for this bursary unless you have confirmed that both can be held together.
- Keep the confirmation email or reference number after you submit – it is proof of your application.
Next steps
If you meet the eligibility criteria, the best path is simple: verify your qualification, organise your documents, and apply early. Remember, the bursary supports both your study costs and daily living expenses, but it is limited to priority fields and to those who are not funded elsewhere. Take action now and give yourself a real chance to study without the financial burden.