So, you’ve finished your undergrad and you’re ready to take on the next step – an Honours, Master’s, or PhD degree. But there’s one big problem… money. Postgraduate studies in South Africa can be expensive, and not everyone has savings or a big fat scholarship waiting.
That’s where postgraduate bursaries come in – and in this guide, we’re going to break it down in simple terms so you know where to start, what to apply for, and how to increase your chances of getting funded.
We’ll also chat about how some students use credit cards to help manage study expenses (and why you should be careful with that).
1. Why Postgraduate Bursaries Matter
Postgraduate studies are not cheap. According to Universities South Africa, a Master’s degree can cost anywhere from R30,000 to over R70,000 a year, while a PhD can go even higher. Then you still have living costs, books, research fees, and in some cases, international travel.
If you don’t have a bursary or scholarship, you may need to rely on credit cards or loans – but those come with interest, and you might end up paying more than double the original amount. That’s why securing a bursary is the best move.
2. Where to Find Postgraduate Bursaries
Here are some top sources for bursaries in South Africa for 2026:
- Bursaries Mzansi – www.bursariesmzansi.co.za lists hundreds of bursaries for Honours, Master’s, and PhD students in South Africa. You can filter by field, province, or even closing date.
- National Research Foundation (NRF) – They offer postgraduate funding for research-based degrees in science, technology, and other fields. More info here: www.nrf.ac.za.
- Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET) – Offers bursaries and fellowships for priority fields.
- Private companies & banks – Many banks like Nedbank, Standard Bank, and Absa have bursary programs. They also offer credit cards for students, but remember, a bursary you don’t pay back… a credit card bill you do.
3. How to Qualify for a Postgraduate Bursary
Most postgraduate bursaries will look at:
- Your academic record (usually an average of 60%+)
- Your financial need
- Your field of study (priority fields often include engineering, health sciences, education, and technology)
- Whether your research benefits South Africa
💡 Pro tip: Even if you don’t meet every requirement, apply anyway. Many bursary providers say they prefer students who show passion and commitment.
4. How to Apply
Here’s a quick, easy process:
- Search for available bursaries on sites like Bursaries Mzansi.
- Prepare your documents – certified copies of your ID, academic records, proof of registration or acceptance, and sometimes a research proposal.
- Write a strong motivation letter – explain why you need the funding, your academic goals, and how you’ll use the qualification to give back.
- Apply early – many bursaries close months before the academic year starts.
5. Using Credit Cards While You Wait for Funding
Some students use credit cards to cover small expenses like textbooks, printing, or transport while waiting for their bursary funds to be paid. This can be useful if you’re disciplined and pay off the balance quickly.
But here’s the truth – credit cards are not free money. If you only pay the minimum amount, the interest can grow fast. According to MoneySmart, credit card interest rates in South Africa can go as high as 20% or more. That’s why bursaries are still the safer option.
6. Useful Tips for Getting Funded
- Apply for multiple bursaries – don’t rely on one.
- Check deadlines – late applications are often rejected without review.
- Network – talk to your lecturers, career services, or alumni for bursary leads.
- Keep your grades up – some bursaries are renewed yearly based on performance.
Final Thoughts
Getting a postgraduate bursary in South Africa for 2026 could be the difference between graduating debt-free or being stuck paying off loans and credit card bills for years.
If you’re serious about funding your studies, start your search now. Bookmark Bursaries Mzansi and check it regularly – new bursaries are added all the time.
