About the opportunity
What this programme is offering
The initiative is part of the university’s broader commitment to supporting academically capable but financially needy international students, particularly those from neighbouring African countries.
Eligible Countries Under the SADC Region
The bursary is open to undergraduate students from SADC member states, including:
Angola
Botswana
Comoros
Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
Lesotho
Madagascar
Malawi
Mauritius
Mozambique
Namibia
Seychelles
Eswatini (formerly Swaziland)
Tanzania
Zambia
Zimbabwe
Applicants must already be enrolled at Stellenbosch University and progressing within their undergraduate programme in 2026.
Purpose and Value of the Bursary
The 2026 bursary provides financial assistance valued at R50,000 per eligible student. The funding is primarily intended to cover tuition fees, with limited allowance for accommodation or co-funding arrangements where applicable.
Startup accelerator program
The bursary is not designed to cover historical debt, but rather to support ongoing academic progression. It is intended for students who are on track to complete their studies within the minimum programme duration, although those completing within an extended “n+1” timeline may also be considered.
Eligibility Criteria and Selection Considerations
Applicants must meet several academic, financial, and administrative requirements to be considered for the bursary.
Key selection criteria include:
Demonstrated financial need, with a combined household income not exceeding R350,000 per annum
Successful completion of at least 60% of credits in the 2025 academic year
Proof of valid study permit, refugee status, asylum seeker documentation, or permanent residency (where applicable)
Exclusion of students eligible for NSFAS funding (for permanent residents)
Continued academic progression within a 4-year undergraduate programme structure
The bursary is awarded on a competitive basis and is not automatically renewed. Students are required to apply annually for continued consideration.
Academic Standing and Progress Requirements
Applicants must be in good academic standing at Stellenbosch University. The bursary prioritises students who have demonstrated consistent academic performance and are progressing steadily toward degree completion.
The programme structure typically includes:
2nd-year students (first-year completed in 2025)
3rd-year students (first-year completed in 2024)
4th-year students (first-year completed in 2023)
Extended programme students (5th year in a 4-year degree, where applicable)
This structure ensures that financial support is directed toward students nearing completion of their undergraduate qualifications.
Required Documentation for Application
Applicants must submit all required documents at the time of application. Incomplete submissions will not be considered.
Mandatory documentation includes:
Valid identification or study permit/visa documents
Proof of financial need
Academic records confirming credit completion for the previous year
Completed bursary application form
One-page motivation letter outlining the applicant’s need and academic goals
Accepted immigration documentation includes study visas, permanent residency proof, refugee status documentation, asylum seeker permits, or VFS receipts confirming visa applications.
Application Process and Conditions
The application process requires students to submit accurate and verified information through the official Stellenbosch University bursary system. All applicants must confirm that the information provided is truthful and may be verified by the university.
Additional application conditions include:
Applications must be submitted before the deadline
Late submissions are not accepted
Missing documentation may result in automatic disqualification
Applicants must clearly indicate their funding status, including self-funding, partial bursaries, or loans
Students must confirm their housing arrangement (residence or off-campus accommodation)
Funding Structure and Institutional Support
The bursary is designed to strengthen access to higher education for students from the SADC region, many of whom face financial barriers in pursuing undergraduate degrees abroad.
Startup accelerator program
By offering targeted financial assistance, Stellenbosch University aims to:
Reduce financial pressure on eligible international students
Improve graduation rates among SADC students
Support academic continuity and degree completion
Promote regional educational cooperation within Southern Africa
The programme also allows for partial co-funding arrangements in cases where students receive additional financial support from other sources.
Key Deadline for 2026 Applications
The closing date for applications is:
Friday, 24 July 2026 at 16:00
Students are encouraged to submit applications early and ensure that all supporting documents are properly uploaded before the deadline, as late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Conclusion
The Stellenbosch University 2026 Undergraduate International SADC Bursary provides a significant opportunity for financially needy students from across Southern Africa to continue their academic journeys without interruption. With a strong emphasis on academic progress, financial need, and regional inclusion, the bursary plays an important role in supporting the development of future professionals across the SADC region.
Eligible students are advised to carefully review the requirements and submit complete applications ahead of the deadline to maximise their chances of selection.
How to apply