AWS Skills Development Bursary South Africa For 2026. If you are a South African student passionate about technology and innovation, the AWS Skills Development Bursary South Africa for 2026 offers a golden opportunity to pursue your studies without financial stress. Sponsored by Amazon Web Services (AWS), this initiative supports deserving students who demonstrate academic excellence and financial need. Whether you’re planning to enter the fields of computer science, engineering, or even education, this bursary could be your gateway to a tech-driven future.
About Amazon Web Services (AWS)
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is the cloud computing division of Amazon.com, a global tech giant known for its expertise in e-commerce, cloud services, digital streaming, and artificial intelligence. Since launching in 2006, AWS has become the world’s leading provider of on-demand cloud computing platforms and APIs. Today, it powers startups, enterprises, and public sector organizations across 190+ countries with a highly scalable, secure, and low-cost cloud infrastructure.
Overview of the AWS Skills Development Bursary Programme
The AWS Skills Development Bursary South Africa for 2026 aims to create a pipeline of skilled tech professionals by funding students in key disciplines related to the technology sector. This full-cost bursary is awarded based on academic merit, financial need, and leadership potential.
Fields of Study Covered by the AWS Bursary
The bursary covers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate study programmes that align with the tech industry.
Undergraduate Degrees Supported:
| Field of Study | Specialisation |
|---|---|
| Bachelor of Commerce | Accounting and Finance |
| Bachelor of Education | Mathematics and Science |
| Engineering | Civil, Electrical, Electronic, Mechanical, Mechatronics |
| Information Technology | General IT studies |
| Computer Science | General and Applied Computing |
| Computer Engineering | Software and Hardware Systems |
Postgraduate Degrees (Honours, Masters, PGDip):
| Field of Study | Specialisation |
|---|---|
| Bachelor of Commerce | Accounting and Finance |
| Engineering | Civil, Electrical, Electronic, Mechanical, Mechatronics |
| Information Technology | Advanced IT and Systems |
| Computer Science | Research or Applied Fields |
| Computer Engineering | Advanced Systems Development |
Additionally, students living with disabilities may apply for the bursary to study any field, whether undergraduate or postgraduate.
What the AWS Bursary Covers
This is a full-cost bursary designed to reduce the financial burden on students. It covers all essential academic and living expenses up to a capped amount.
| Covered Expense | Details |
|---|---|
| Tuition Fees | Full coverage at a recognised South African university |
| Stationery & Books | Course-related materials |
| Personal Computer | One-time technology grant |
| Accommodation | University residence or private |
| Subsistence | Meals, travel, and day-to-day expenses |
Eligibility Criteria for the AWS Bursary 2026
Applicants must meet strict requirements to be considered for the AWS Skills Development Bursary South Africa for 2026:
| Criteria | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a South African citizen |
| Education | Currently in Matric or completed Matric |
| Qualification Level | Studying or intending to study full-time towards an Undergraduate or Postgraduate degree in eligible fields |
| Institution | Must attend a recognised and accredited university in South Africa |
| Academic Performance | Minimum 75% in Mathematics & Physical Science, 65% in English HL or 70% in English FAL |
| Tertiary Level | Minimum 65% average if currently studying at university |
| Personal Attributes | Strong academic record and leadership potential |
| Disability Consideration | Preference given to students living with disabilities |
How to Apply for the AWS Skills Development Bursary 2026
Interested students can submit their application online via the official StudyTrust portal:
Required Supporting Documents:
Submit clear, certified copies of the following:
- Recent passport-size photograph (head & shoulders)
- Certified South African ID document
- Grade 11 and Matric June results (for current Matrics)
- Matric certificate (for past Matrics)
- Latest academic results or progress report (June 2025)
- Proof of household income (latest payslips / affidavits / SASSA letters / business statements)
- Death certificates of parents (if applicable)
- Court letter or affidavit regarding child support (if applicable)
- Medical proof of disability (if applicable)
Application Closing Date
The final date to submit your application is 30 September 2025.
Late applications will not be considered, so ensure you apply before the deadline to stand a chance.
Why Choose the AWS Skills Development Bursary?
The AWS Skills Development Bursary South Africa for 2026 is not just about funding it’s about empowering the future tech workforce. By covering full study costs and offering additional support, AWS ensures that financially disadvantaged students are not left behind.
Here why this bursary stands out:
- Supports STEM careers, which are in high demand
- Prioritises students with disabilities
- Encourages leadership and academic excellence
- Offers access to one of the world’s leading tech ecosystems
Contact Details for Queries
All queries related to the AWS Skills Development Bursary South Africa for 2026 should be directed to StudyTrust, the official bursary administrators.
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Telephone | 011 403 1632 |
| Mobile | 087 511 3373 |
| [email protected] | |
| Website | Contact Page |
FAQs About AWS Bursary
Can I apply for the AWS Bursary if I’m not studying a tech-related course?
Yes. Students living with disabilities can apply for the bursary for any study programme, whether tech-related or not, at undergraduate or postgraduate level.
Do I need to be currently enrolled at a university to apply?
No. You can apply if you are currently in Matric and planning to enroll in 2026, or if you’re already studying full-time at a recognised South African university.
Is the AWS bursary renewable each year?
Yes, but it depends on your academic performance and continued financial need. Recipients must maintain a minimum academic average and adhere to programme guidelines to retain funding.
Conclusion
If you have a passion for technology and a desire to create change, the AWS Skills Development Bursary South Africa for 2026 is your opportunity to excel. With comprehensive funding and strong institutional backing, it offers more than just financial relief it’s an investment in your future career in the fast-growing digital economy.
