Bursaries With Monthly Allowance For 2025. In 2025, bursaries with monthly allowance have become increasingly essential for South African students pursuing higher education. While many bursaries cover tuition and registration fees, only a select few provide monthly stipends that help with living expenses such as transport, meals, accommodation, and data. If you’re seeking fully funded bursaries in South Africa, this comprehensive guide highlights the best options that also offer a monthly living allowance.
What Is a Bursary with Monthly Allowance?
A bursary with monthly allowance is a financial aid package that does more than cover tuition—it gives students ongoing financial support. These monthly stipends range between R1,500 and R3,500+, depending on the bursary provider, your course of study, and whether you live on- or off-campus.
What Monthly Allowances Typically Cover
- Food and groceries
- Public or private transport
- Off-campus accommodation
- Wi-Fi and mobile data
- Toiletries and personal hygiene
- Academic tools like books and stationery
This kind of support helps students focus entirely on their academics, removing the pressure of part-time jobs or unpaid internships.
Top 10 Bursaries with Monthly Allowance for 2025
Here’s a detailed table of the top bursaries that offer monthly stipends in 2025:
| Bursary Provider | Monthly Allowance | Fields of Study | Covered Expenses | Where to Apply |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| NSFAS | R1,650+ | All university/TVET fields | Tuition, accommodation, books, living allowance | nsfas.org.za |
| Funza Lushaka Bursary | Yes | Teaching (BEd, PGCE) | Tuition, books, meals, accommodation, living allowance | funzalushaka.doe.gov.za |
| Department of Health (Provincial) | Varies by province | Nursing, medicine, pharmacy, etc. | Tuition, accommodation, books, monthly stipend | Provincial Health Dept websites |
| Sasol Bursary | Yes | Engineering, IT, accounting, sciences | Tuition, books, laptop, accommodation, monthly stipend | sasolbursaries.com |
| Transnet Bursary Programme | Yes | Engineering, logistics, maritime | Tuition, meals, housing, monthly cash allowance | transnet.net |
| Nedbank Bursary | Yes | Finance, law, analytics, IT | Tuition, meals, accommodation, monthly allowance | nedbank.co.za |
| Anglo American Bursary | Yes | Engineering, geology, mining | Full tuition, accommodation, monthly stipend | angloamerican.com |
| BankSETA Bursary | Yes | Banking, finance, accounting | Tuition, tools, monthly living allowance | Via institutions or SETA portals |
| Mpumalanga Provincial Government | Yes | Agriculture, education, law, health | Tuition, food, accommodation, stipend | mpumalanga.gov.za |
| Multichoice Bursary | Yes | Film, media, IT, engineering | Tuition, laptop, accommodation, monthly allowance | careers.multichoice.com |
Requirements to Apply for Bursaries with Monthly Allowance
Each bursary has unique requirements, but most share common eligibility documents. Here’s a general checklist you should prepare:
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Matric certificate or recent academic results
- Proof of registration or admission
- Parent/guardian income documentation
- Motivation letter (well-written and personalized)
- Banking details for monthly stipend deposits
- Completed application form (online or printed)
Note: Always submit neat, complete, and well-organized application packs before the deadline. A strong motivation letter can set you apart from other candidates.
Why Choose a Bursary with Monthly Allowance?
Unlike standard bursaries that only pay your tuition, bursaries with a monthly living stipend offer additional benefits:
- Academic focus – Less pressure to find part-time jobs
- Support for online learning – Monthly data or Wi-Fi included
- Daily essentials covered – Meals, toiletries, and transport
- Accommodation support – Especially if studying far from home
- Personal independence – Especially valuable for students from rural areas
Important Considerations Before Applying
While the idea of monthly financial aid is appealing, students should also be aware of a few conditions attached to some bursaries:
- Service contracts – Some bursaries (e.g., Funza Lushaka) require you to work for a government institution after graduation.
- Minimum academic performance – You must maintain certain marks to continue receiving support.
- Annual reapplications – Some bursaries don’t auto-renew, so you must apply again each year.
- Allowance format – Monthly support may be cash, vouchers, or direct payments to service providers.
When to Apply for 2025 Bursaries with Monthly Allowance
Most bursary programmes open their applications between April and October 2025. However, some close as early as June, so it’s crucial to monitor official sites regularly.
- Opening and closing dates
- Manual vs online submission method
- Eligibility criteria (matriculants vs university students)
Tips to Boost Your Bursary Application
Getting selected for a bursary is competitive, but following these expert tips will increase your chances:
- Start researching early in the year
- Apply to multiple bursaries, not just one
- Customize your motivation letter for each application
- Request help from teachers, mentors, or career counsellors
- Ensure all documents are certified, clear, and up-to-date
FAQs About Bursaries with Monthly Allowance in South Africa
Can I apply for more than one bursary that offers a monthly allowance?
Yes, you can apply to multiple bursaries. However, if you’re selected for more than one, you’ll usually be required to accept only one funding offer to avoid duplication.
What happens if I fail a subject while receiving a bursary?
Many bursaries have academic performance requirements. If you fail a module or drop below the minimum required average, you may lose your funding or be asked to reapply with improved results.
Do TVET College students also qualify for bursaries with monthly allowances?
Absolutely. NSFAS is one of the key funders for TVET College students, and it includes a monthly living allowance, book allowances, and more. Other bursaries also support vocational training fields
Conclusion
Securing a bursary with monthly allowance can truly transform your student experience. Beyond tuition fees, it supports your mental health, financial independence, and academic success. In 2025, top sponsors like NSFAS, Sasol, Transnet, and Nedbank continue to offer generous financial aid packages across various disciplines—from engineering and education to healthcare and finance.
