Hey there, future changemaker! Are you passionate about Science, Technology, Engineering, or Mathematics (STEM) and dreaming of a future powered by innovation — but worried about funding your studies? Good news: Vodacom’s Merit Bursary Programme might just be your golden ticket. This fully funded bursary not only covers university costs but also equips you with tools and real-world exposure. Let’s dive in and see how you can make this incredible opportunity yours.
What Is the Vodacom Merit Bursary Programme?
Vodacom offers an academic Merit Bursary to full-time first-, second-, or third-year undergraduate students studying STEM disciplines at South African tertiary institutions. The bursary aims to support high-achieving students who may lack the resources to pursue their studies. The package is comprehensive, extending beyond tuition to include accommodation, meals, tech devices, and even career readiness training.vodacom.comCareers
Here’s what’s typically on offer:
- Full university accommodation or a capped allowance for private housing
- Full tuition and registration fees
- Textbook allowance
- Meal allowance
- Additional perks: laptop, cellphone, orientation workshop, vacation work placement, workplace readiness training, wellness support (ICAS Programme)vodacom.comCareers
In short? It’s not just funding—it’s empowerment.
Who Qualifies?
To qualify for this bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen by birth
- Be enrolled full-time at a South African university
- Passed Grade 12 with exemption and achieved 70% or higher across all subjects
- Currently in first year (or higher) of tertiary, with a minimum 65% averagevodacom.comCareers
If that’s you, keep reading!
Why This Bursary Stands Out
Let’s face it—there are many bursaries out there, but few go the extra mile like this one. Here’s why:
- All-Inclusive Financial Support
No need to worry about accommodation, tuition, or meal costs. Vodacom covers it all—or caps it fairly if you’re off-campus. - Tech & Connectivity
You’ll receive a laptop and cellphone to stay connected and empowered for study and career opportunities. - Real-World Exposure
Participate in a structured Vacation Work programme, offering workplace experience and a glimpse of the professional world. - Career Readiness & Wellness
Develop essential skills and access wellness services via the ICAS Programme—because mental health matters too. - Track Record of Impact
Since its launch, Vodacom has funded hundreds of bursars. For instance, in 2023 alone, over 4,000 applicants vied for just 100 spots—and yet, over 900 bursars have benefited since 2014.vukuzenzele.gov.za
What’s New for the 2026 Intake
While applications for the 2025 intake closed, Vodacom typically opens for the 2026 intake around 1 June 2025vodacom.com. Various educational platforms, such as OpportunitiesForAfricans.com, already reference the 2026 programme as “now open”Opportunities For AfricansFacebookFacebook — so keep an eye out and prepare early.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply
Applying to the Vodacom Merit Bursary is straightforward:
- Confirm you meet eligibility—check citizenship, academic prerequisites, and full-time enrollment.
- Visit Vodacom’s bursary page (keep checking back from 1 June 2025 for updates and application links)vodacom.comvukuzenzele.gov.za.
- Register and submit your application online. You’ll receive a confirmation email once your submission goes through.
- Wait for updates—the Bursary Management team will evaluate your application and keep you informed throughout.
Tips to Maximize Your Application
Want your application to shine? Here are some tips:
- Submit clear and complete documentation—nothing beats a clean, well-structured application.
- Highlight your STEM passion—share any projects, innovative ideas, or leadership activities to show how you stand out.
- Start early & stay vigilant—links often go live on Vodacom’s careers or bursary page around June; deadlines may fall in August or September. For example, the 2023 closing date was 31 Augustvukuzenzele.gov.za, and some platforms note 20 September 2024WeMakeScholarsCareers.
- Reach out for support—connect with school counselors, bursary forums, or alumni who’ve received it before.
Voices from the Field
On Vuk’uzenzele, Vodacom revealed that they received over 4,000 applications for 2023 but only awarded 100 bursaries—so yeah, the competition is real, but the rewards are transformativevukuzenzele.gov.za.
Where to Find More Help
Need additional resources or advice? Try these:
- Vodacom Bursary Programme Page – Official updates, eligibility, and application accessvodacom.com.
- OpportunitiesForAfricans.com – Offers recurring updates on opening dates and details for upcoming intakesOpportunities For Africans.
- Lefalarona.org / Careers.educourse.co.za – Secondary resources with summaries, though always verify directly with Vodacom to ensure accuracyCareerslefalarona.org.
Final Thoughts: Is This for You?
Let’s bring it all together: if you’re a South African STEM student who’s academically strong (Grade 12 70%+, tertiary average 65%+), this isn’t just a bursary—it’s your launchpad. With tuition, accommodation, tech tools, wellness support, and hands-on experience all in one package, it’s not just about getting to uni. It’s about thriving.
Mark your calendar, get your documents ready, and keep checking Vodacom’s bursary webpage. You’ve worked hard—now let this bursary work for you.
Quick Summary Table
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | Vodacom Merit Bursary Programme |
| Fields | STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) |
| Eligibility | South African by birth, full-time tertiary, Grade 12 70%+, tertiary average ≥ 65% |
| Benefits | Tuition, accommodation, meals, books, laptop, cellphone, workshops, vacation work, workplace training, wellness support |
| Application Timeline | Opens around June (e.g., June 2025 for 2026 intake), closes late August or mid-September |
| Tips | Prepare early, showcase passion & achievement, apply diligently |
Best of luck, future innovator! If you’d like help refining your CV, writing your essay, or tracking bursary deadlines, I’m here to help.
