UFS Postgraduate Diploma Bursary South Africa For 2026. The University of the Free State (UFS), one of South Africa oldest and most respected institutions, offers a life-changing opportunity through its Postgraduate Diploma Bursary for 2026. This bursary aims to support deserving students both South African and international who are academically strong but financially constrained.
With its rich history dating back to 1904 as Grey University College, UFS has transformed into a multi-campus institution, accommodating over 40,000 students across its Bloemfontein and Qwaqwa campuses. Through its commitment to academic excellence and community engagement, UFS continues to provide equitable access to higher education, including financial assistance through various bursary programmes.
In this detailed article, you will learn everything you need to know about the UFS Postgraduate Diploma Bursary South Africa for 2026, including eligibility, benefits, application process, deadlines, and additional opportunities for funding.
What Is the UFS Postgraduate Diploma Bursary?
The UFS Postgraduate Diploma Bursary is a partial tuition bursary designed to support full-time students pursuing a Postgraduate Diploma at the University of the Free State. The bursary is not intended to settle outstanding historical fees but rather helps students with their 2026 academic year tuition costs.
This opportunity is available to students with a strong academic record and limited access to financial support. The bursary reflects UFS’s dedication to promoting postgraduate education and empowering qualified individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Fields of Study Covered
The bursary applies exclusively to Postgraduate Diploma programmes offered by the University of the Free State. These programmes span a wide range of faculties including:
- Education
- Law
- Economic and Management Sciences
- Humanities
- Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Health Sciences
- Theology and Religion
Note: The bursary does not cover PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education).
UFS Postgraduate Diploma Bursary 2026 Overview
Here’s a quick summary of the key details:
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary Name | UFS Postgraduate Diploma Bursary South Africa 2026 |
| Institution | University of the Free State (UFS) |
| Level of Study | First Postgraduate Diploma (full-time only) |
| Funding Type | Once-off Partial Tuition Fee Support |
| Citizenship | South African citizens and International students |
| Minimum Academic Requirement | 65% average in undergraduate qualification |
| Application Platform | NRF Connect System |
| Closing Date | 30 November 2025 |
| Contact Person | Mpho Lekoekoe |
| Email Address | [email protected] |
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered for the UFS Postgraduate Diploma Bursary South Africa 2026, applicants must meet the following strict requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen or an international student.
- Must have completed Matric and an undergraduate degree with at least 65% average.
- Must have completed the undergraduate qualification within the minimum prescribed period.
- Must be enrolling in a first Postgraduate Diploma (full-time) at UFS.
- Must NOT:
- Be pursuing an undergraduate qualification.
- Be applying for or enrolled in PGCE.
- Be employed during the study period.
- Be a recipient of any government bursary or scholarship.
- Be benefiting from UFS staff tuition remission.
- Hold a Postgraduate Diploma, Honours, or B Tech degree already.
- Be registered for the second year of a Postgraduate Diploma.
- Have received previous postgraduate funding from UFS.
Expenses Covered by the Bursary
The bursary will provide partial financial coverage for tuition fees only. It is a once-off payment and does not cover:
- Historical debt
- Accommodation
- Textbooks
- Living expenses
This funding aims to reduce the financial burden and make it more manageable for students to complete their postgraduate diplomas.
How to Apply for the UFS Postgraduate Diploma Bursary
All applications for the UFS Postgraduate Diploma Bursary 2026 must be submitted online through the NRF Connect System.
Application Steps:
- Visit the NRF Connect portal.
- Register as a new user or log in with existing credentials.
- Select Postgraduate Diploma Bursary 2026 from the funding options.
- Complete the online application form with accurate academic and personal information.
- In the section “How did you hear about this bursary?”, enter www.zabursaries.co.za.
- Upload supporting documents as required (see below).
- Submit the application before 30 November 2025.
Supporting Documents
| Applicants Who Completed Undergraduate Outside UFS | Applicants Who Graduated from UFS |
|---|---|
| Submit full academic record in PDF via email to: | No need to upload academic record |
| [email protected] | UFS will internally access your records |
| Use subject line: “Application for UFS Postgraduate Diploma Funding – [Your Student Number]” |
Important Deadlines and Assessment Timeline
- Application Closing Date: 30 November 2025
- ISFAP Assessment Deadline (if required): 2 September 2025
- Funding Notification Period: Early 2026
Late applications will not be accepted, so candidates are urged to apply well in advance.
Other Funding Opportunities at UFS
Besides the UFS Postgraduate Diploma Bursary, students may also explore additional funding sources:
1. NRF Postgraduate Scholarships
Offered by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) – National Research Foundation (NRF), these include:
- Full Cost of Study (FCS)
- Partial Cost of Study (PCS)
To access this funding, follow guidelines in the DSTI-NRF Postgraduate Scholarship Framework for 2026.
2. Academic Merit Awards
UFS also offers academic merit bursaries to students who achieve 80% or above in senior undergraduate studies.
Contact Information for UFS Bursary Queries
If you need help or have any questions regarding the UFS Postgraduate Diploma Bursary for 2026, contact the designated bursary administrator:
- Contact Person: Mpho Lekoekoe
- Email Address: [email protected]
You can also connect with the Centre for Graduate Support for further guidance.
FAQs About UFS Postgraduate Diploma Bursary South Africa
Can I apply for this bursary if I already have an Honours degree?
No. You must not hold any previous postgraduate qualification, including Honours, B Tech, or Postgraduate Diplomas.
Does this bursary cover living expenses and accommodation?
No. The bursary provides partial tuition fee support only. It does not cover accommodation, textbooks, or living costs.
Can I apply if I am currently employed?
No. One of the key eligibility criteria is that you must not be employed while pursuing the postgraduate diploma.
Conclusion
The UFS Postgraduate Diploma Bursary South Africa for 2026 is a golden opportunity for students committed to academic excellence but facing financial constraints. If you’re eligible and ready to pursue a full-time Postgraduate Diploma at one of South Africa’s most prestigious institutions, do not delay your application.
