Deadline: 31-Aug-2026
The Vodacom External Bursary Programme provides academic merit-based financial support to high-achieving South African students pursuing full-time undergraduate studies. The programme supports students in STEM fields, Business, and Commercial disciplines by covering tuition, accommodation, learning materials, living support, technology resources, and career development opportunities.
The bursary is designed to help talented students access higher education while preparing them for future employment through workplace exposure and skills development.
Overview of the Vodacom External Bursary Programme
The Vodacom External Bursary Programme supports academically strong students who require financial assistance to complete undergraduate studies in South Africa.
The programme focuses on students pursuing qualifications in:
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics (STEM)
- Business disciplines
- Commercial fields
The bursary provides comprehensive financial support beyond tuition funding by supporting students’ academic, personal, and professional development.
Programme Objectives
The bursary aims to:
- Improve access to higher education
- Support high-performing students
- Develop future skills in priority fields
- Encourage STEM and business talent
- Prepare students for workplace opportunities
The programme helps students focus on their studies by reducing financial barriers.
What the Bursary Covers
Successful applicants receive a wide range of financial and development support.
Tuition and Registration Fees
The bursary covers:
- Full university registration fees
- Full tuition fees
This allows students to complete their undergraduate qualifications without the burden of education costs.
Accommodation Support
Students receive support for accommodation through:
- Full university accommodation coverage, or
- A capped contribution toward private accommodation
Accommodation support helps students access safe and suitable living arrangements while studying.
Learning Materials
The bursary provides:
- Textbook allowance
- Study resource support
Students receive essential academic materials required for successful learning.
Living Allowance
Recipients receive:
- Meal allowance support
This helps cover daily living expenses during the academic year.
Technology Support
Beneficiaries receive:
- A laptop
- A cellphone
These resources help students participate effectively in digital learning and communication.
Student Development Opportunities
The programme includes additional career and personal development benefits.
Orientation Workshop
New bursary recipients receive:
- Orientation support
- Guidance for transitioning into university life
This helps students adjust to higher education expectations.
Vacation Work Programme
Students gain workplace exposure through:
- Structured vacation work opportunities
- Practical industry experience
The programme helps students understand professional environments and build workplace skills.
Work Readiness Training
Final-year bursary recipients receive:
- Career preparation support
- Workplace readiness skills
Training helps students prepare for employment after graduation.
Wellness Support
Students receive access to:
- Wellness services
- Mental health support through Lyra Wellbeing Services
This promotes student wellbeing throughout their academic journey.
Who Can Apply?
The bursary is available to students who meet the eligibility requirements.
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens by birth
- Study full-time at a South African tertiary institution
- Pursue an eligible undergraduate qualification
Academic Requirements
Applicants must meet academic performance standards.
Grade 12 Applicants
Students entering university must:
- Have completed Grade 12 with exemption
- Achieve an average of 70% or higher across all subjects
Current Tertiary Students
Students already studying at university must:
- Be enrolled in an undergraduate programme
- Have achieved at least a 65% average in their first year or above
Eligible Fields of Study
The bursary supports undergraduate programmes related to:
STEM Fields
Including:
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics
Business and Commercial Fields
Including:
- Business studies
- Commercial disciplines
- Related career-focused qualifications
How the Bursary Works
Step 1: Check Eligibility
Applicants should confirm they meet:
- Citizenship requirements
- Academic requirements
- Study programme requirements
Step 2: Submit an Application
Applicants provide information including:
- Academic results
- Personal details
- Qualification information
- Supporting documentation
Step 3: Selection Process
Applications are assessed based on:
- Academic performance
- Eligibility criteria
- Potential for success
- Programme requirements
Step 4: Receive Support
Successful bursars receive:
- Financial assistance
- Academic resources
- Career development opportunities
Why the Vodacom External Bursary Matters
Higher education costs can prevent talented students from completing their studies.
The bursary supports students by:
- Reducing financial pressure
- Improving access to quality education
- Supporting future skills development
- Creating pathways into employment
By focusing on STEM and business fields, the programme contributes to developing skilled professionals for South Africa’s future workforce.
Common Application Mistakes to Avoid
Missing Academic Requirements
Applicants should carefully check:
- Required averages
- Grade 12 exemption requirements
- Qualification eligibility
Applying for an Unsupported Qualification
Students should confirm that their field of study matches the bursary focus areas.
Incomplete Information
Applications should include all required documents and accurate academic details.
Ignoring Development Opportunities
Applicants should understand that the bursary includes career preparation and workplace exposure, not only financial support.
Tips for a Strong Application
Applicants should:
- Maintain strong academic results
- Provide accurate information
- Clearly explain their study goals
- Highlight commitment to their chosen field
- Prepare required documents early
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Vodacom External Bursary Programme?
It is a financial support programme for high-achieving South African students studying undergraduate degrees in STEM, Business, and Commercial fields.
Who is eligible for the bursary?
South African citizens by birth who are studying full-time undergraduate programmes at South African tertiary institutions can apply.
What does the bursary cover?
The bursary covers tuition fees, registration, accommodation, textbooks, meals, technology support, and career development opportunities.
What academic results are required?
Grade 12 applicants need a 70% average or higher. Current tertiary students need at least a 65% average in their first year or above.
Does the bursary include workplace experience?
Yes. Recipients receive workplace exposure through a structured vacation work programme.
Is the bursary only for STEM students?
No. It also supports students studying Business and Commercial disciplines.
Do students receive technology support?
Yes. Successful bursars receive a laptop and cellphone to support their studies.
Conclusion
The Vodacom External Bursary Programme provides comprehensive support to academically talented South African students pursuing undergraduate studies.
By covering education costs, providing technology resources, supporting wellbeing, and offering career development opportunities, the programme helps students achieve academic success and prepare for future careers.
For more information, visit Vodacom.