IDC Bursary 2027

IDC Bursary 2027 applications are now open. Check IDC bursary requirements, fields of study, funding, eligibility and apply before 30 September 2026.

The IDC Bursary provides financial assistance to unemployed South African citizens who have financial need and are studying, or intend to study, full-time towards selected qualifications at approved South African public tertiary institutions.

Applications opened: Monday, 1 June 2026
Closing date: Wednesday, 30 September 2026
Academic year: 2027
Who can apply: Eligible South African citizens
Financial need: Required
Study mode: Full-time

The Industrial Development Corporation’s External Bursary Scheme aims to support talented South African students who require financial assistance to pursue qualifications that contribute to the country’s economic development.

The programme is particularly focused on students pursuing qualifications in fields aligned with IDC’s strategic areas and skills requirements.

Fields of Study

The IDC External Bursary supports selected qualifications in areas including:

Engineering

Chemical Engineering
Civil Engineering
Electrical Engineering
Electronic Engineering
Industrial Engineering
Mechanical Engineering
Mechatronic Engineering
Mining Engineering
Metallurgical Engineering
Agricultural Engineering
Construction Engineering
Other approved engineering-related fields

Science, Mathematics & Technology

Computer Science
Information Technology
Information Systems
Mathematics
Statistics
Actuarial Science
Data Science
Physics
Biotechnology
Geology
Environmental Science
Other approved STEM fields

Finance, Accounting & Business

Accounting
Chartered Accounting
Financial Management
Finance
Economics
Econometrics
Investment Management
Risk Management
Supply Chain Management
Logistics
Business Management
Entrepreneurship
Internal Audit
Cost and Management Accounting
Financial Accounting
Financial Engineering

Law

Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
Commercial Law
Other approved law-related qualifications

Selected Postgraduate Qualifications

Accounting / CTA
Actuarial Science
Mathematics
Statistics
Selected postgraduate Law programmes

Important: Applicants should confirm that their specific qualification appears on the IDC’s approved list before submitting an application.

Who Can Apply for the IDC Bursary?

The IDC Bursary is aimed at eligible South African citizens who require financial assistance for their studies.

Applicants should meet the relevant IDC eligibility and academic requirements and must be studying, or intending to study, full-time.

Preference may be given to applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds, including students from rural areas and qualifying public schools, as well as applicants living with disabilities.

IDC Bursary Academic Requirements

Applicants should meet the academic requirements prescribed by the IDC for their level of study.

For the latest published requirements, prospective applicants should ensure they have strong academic results and meet the minimum requirements applicable to their qualification and study level.

Financial Need

The IDC External Bursary is specifically intended to assist students with financial need.

Applicants may therefore be required to provide supporting documentation relating to household income and their financial circumstances.

What Does the IDC Bursary Cover?

Successful bursary recipients may receive financial support towards study-related expenses, which can include:

Tuition fees
Accommodation
Meals
Transport
Laptop allowance

The exact benefits and conditions are subject to the IDC’s bursary terms and the approved funding arrangement.

Documents Required

Applicants should prepare supporting documents before starting their application.

These may include:

Certified South African ID
Latest academic results
Matric certificate, where applicable
Grade 11 and June results for relevant Grade 12 applicants
Proof of household income
Parents’ or guardians’ identification documents
Payslips, where applicable
Bank statements
Proof of residence
Supporting documentation relating to financial circumstances
Relevant documentation for unemployed parents or guardians
Other documents requested by IDC

Applicants should ensure that all documents meet the IDC’s certification requirements.

How to Apply for the IDC Bursary 2027

Eligible students can apply for the IDC External Bursary online.

Application Steps

Visit the official IDC bursary application page.
Read the eligibility requirements carefully.
Confirm that your qualification is supported.
Prepare the required supporting documents.
Complete the online application form.
Upload the required documentation.
Complete all required sections of the application.
Submit your application before the closing date.

Click Here To Access IDC Bursary Application Portal

Students are strongly encouraged not to wait until the final day to apply. Prepare your documents early and submit your application well before the deadline.

Important Information for Applicants

The IDC Bursary is a competitive funding opportunity. Meeting the minimum requirements does not automatically guarantee selection.

Applicants should:

Apply before the closing date.
Submit accurate information.
Upload clear supporting documents.
Make sure their qualification is eligible.
Keep copies of their application and supporting documents.
Monitor their email for communication from IDC.
Never pay anyone to submit a bursary application on their behalf unless an official IDC process specifically requires a legitimate fee.

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Listed by Youth Opportunities SA · Source: IDC · Always apply through official channels. Youth Opportunities SA does not charge any application fees.

Editorial Policy & Transparency

At Youth Opportunities SA, we are committed to publishing accurate, relevant, and up-to-date opportunity listings for young South Africans.

We are not involved in the recruitment or selection process and do not charge any fees for applications. Information contained in this article is based on details supplied by the employer and should be verified through official recruitment channels before applying.

This article is based on information provided in the official IDC vacancy advertisement. Our editorial team reviews and summarizes opportunity details to make them easier to understand, while striving to maintain accuracy.

Transparency Disclosure:

Source: Official employer job advertisement
Content Type: Opportunity Listing
Last Reviewed: August 2026
Cost to Applicants: Free to access on Youth Opportunities SA
Affiliation: Youth Opportunities SA is not affiliated with or endorsed by IDC unless explicitly stated

Applicants should always verify details and submit applications through the employer’s official recruitment channels, as requirements and closing dates may change without notice.

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IDC Bursary 2027 | Apply Now – Closing 30 September 2026