IDC External Bursary Scheme 2027: Fully Funded Opportunities for South African Students

Unlock your future with the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) External Bursary Scheme for the 2027 academic year! Applications are open until 30 September 2026 for South African students who demonstrate both academic excellence and financial need. This opportunity is your gateway to a fully-funded education at a public university or university of technology.

About the Opportunity

The IDC External Bursary Scheme is designed to support academically deserving South African students who are in financial need. The bursary covers full-time undergraduate studies at public universities and universities of technology in South Africa. It is available for a range of fields including Finance, Management, Engineering, Information Technology, Science, and Law, among others. Limited funding is also available for selected Honours programmes.

Closing Dates

Applications for the IDC External Bursary Scheme close on 30 September 2026. Ensure your application is complete and submitted before this date to be considered.

Key Responsibilities

Successful applicants will be expected to maintain satisfactory academic progress throughout their studies. This includes achieving a minimum GPA of 60% and meeting all academic requirements set by their institution and the IDC.

Requirements/Qualifications

To be eligible for the IDC bursary, applicants must:

• Be South African citizens aged 26 or younger.
• Be unemployed and demonstrate financial need.
• Be admitted to a South African public university or university of technology.
• Be pursuing a first undergraduate qualification in an IDC-approved field, or an approved Honours programme.
• Meet the applicable academic requirements, including a minimum 75% in Matric for new students or a 65% average for current tertiary students.
• Submit all required documents, including proof of household income and certified identity documents.

Benefits

The IDC bursary covers:

• Full tuition fees
• University accommodation or accredited off-campus accommodation
• A once-off laptop
• Meal and transport allowances
• Other approved study-related expenses

The final funding package will be subject to the conditions in the bursary agreement.

Applicants who receive preference include those from previously disadvantaged communities, rural areas, or those living with disabilities. A weighting system may be applied to consider academic performance, financial circumstances, and transformation objectives.