If you plan to study in 2026 and need financial assistance, October 2025 is one of the most important application periods of the year. Many bursaries close this month, and missing a deadline can delay your studies or force you to seek loans instead of funding. This guide gives you a complete breakdown of bursaries closing in October 2025, bursaries with flexible deadlines, and tips to help you apply on time.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!The information is grouped to help both Grade 12 learners and current university students find relevant funding opportunities quickly.
Why October Is a Critical Month for Applications
Most funding bodies open bursary applications mid-year and close them around October. This gives them enough time to shortlist candidates before the 2026 academic year begins. Applying early increases your chances because many organisations review applications as they come in, not only after the closing date.
Competition is high, and incomplete applications are often rejected without notice. Start applying as soon as possible and keep all your documents ready.
Bursaries Closing in Early October 2025
These bursaries close within the first ten days of the month. Late submissions are usually not accepted.
1. Maize Trust Bursary
- Closing Date: 1 October 2025
- Details: Offers financial assistance for students pursuing agricultural studies, particularly in maize production, and related fields.
- Apply: Maize Trust Bursary
2. SACTA Bursary
- Closing Date: 1 October 2025
- Details: Supports students in media, communication, and broadcasting studies, aiming to advance the film and television industry.
- Apply: SACTA Bursary
3. Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) Bursary
- Closing Date: 3 October 2025
- Details: Provides funding for undergraduate and postgraduate studies in environmental sciences, fisheries, and forestry.
- Apply: Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) Bursary
4. Kumba Iron Ore Bursary
- Closing Date: 3 October 2025
- Details: Aimed at students studying engineering, geology, and related fields in the mining sector.
- Apply: Kumba Iron Ore Bursary
5. Transnet Bursary
- Closing Date: 6 October 2025
- Details: Offers financial support for students in fields such as engineering, logistics, and transportation management.
- Apply: Transnet Bursary
6. George Municipality Bursary
- Closing Date: 7 October 2025
- Details: Provides funding for students pursuing studies in public administration, environmental management, and engineering.
- Apply: George Municipality Bursary
7. France South Africa Scholarship
- Closing Date: 8 October 2025
- Details: Supports South African students wishing to pursue postgraduate studies in France in various fields, with a focus on cultural exchange.
- Apply: France South Africa Scholarship
8. City of Cape Town Bursary
- Closing Date: 10 October 2025
- Details: Available for students in fields such as civil engineering, urban planning, and local government studies.
- Apply: City of Cape Town Bursary
9. Drakenstein Municipality Bursary
- Closing Date: 10 October 2025
- Details: Offers financial aid to students in local government administration, engineering, and environmental studies.
- Apply: Drakenstein Municipality Bursary
10. Harmony Bursary
- Closing Date: 10 October 2025
- Details: Provides funding for students pursuing degrees in mining, engineering, and geology.
- Apply: Harmony Bursary
11. SANBI Joan Wrench Kirstenbosch Scholarship
- Closing Date: 10 October 2025
- Details: A scholarship for postgraduate studies in botanical sciences, with a focus on conservation and plant research.
- Apply: SANBI Joan Wrench Kirstenbosch Scholarship
12. Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa Bursaries
- Closing Date: 11 October 2025
- Details: Offers support to students in the pharmaceutical field, covering studies in pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, and related areas.
- Apply: Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa Bursaries
13. Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) Bursary
- Closing Date: 15 October 2025 – extension
- Details: Provides financial assistance to students pursuing careers in accounting, auditing, and public sector financial management.
- Apply: Auditor-General of South Africa (AGSA) Bursary
14. Etion Create Bursary
- Closing Date: 17 October 2025
- Details: Supports students in technology, engineering, and innovation, focusing on the development of South Africa’s digital economy.
- Apply: Etion Create Bursary
15. Thebe Foundation Dr EJ Mabuza Scholarship
- Closing Date: 17 October 2025
- Details: Provides funding for postgraduate studies in business, management, and economics, with a focus on leadership development.
- Apply: Thebe Foundation Dr EJ Mabuza Scholarship
16. INSETA ISSF Bursary
- Closing Date: 20 October 2025
- Details: Aimed at students pursuing studies in insurance, financial services, and actuarial sciences.
- Apply: INSETA ISSF Bursary
17. LPG Bursary Competition
- Closing Date: 30 October 2025
- Details: Offers a competition for students in energy-related fields, focusing on natural gas and energy efficiency studies.
- Apply: LPG Bursary Competition
18. Amandla Omoya Trust Bursary
- Closing Date: 31 October 2025
- Details: Provides support to students from disadvantaged backgrounds pursuing studies in environmental sciences, social work, and engineering.
- Apply: Amandla Omoya Trust Bursary
What You Need Before Applying
Having the right documents ready can reduce your application time and prevent rejection. Most bursaries require:
- Certified copy of ID
- Latest academic results or matric certificate
- Proof of household income or affidavits
- University acceptance letter or registration
- Motivational letter or personal statement
- Curriculum vitae (for university students)
- Proof of residence
Prepare both physical and digital copies. Many bursaries use online application portals and email submissions.
Application Tips for Matric Learners
Grade 12 learners often lose time because they wait for final marks. You do not need your final NSC results to apply. Use your June or preliminary results and your intended field of study. Apply to more than one bursary to increase your chances.
If you do not yet have a university acceptance letter, apply anyway. Most bursaries allow you to submit it later.
Application Tips for University and Postgraduate Students
Current students should update their academic record, add transcripts, and include proof of registration or acceptance into their next year of study. Motivation letters should highlight leadership, financial need, academic performance, and future career plans.
If your marks dropped, provide a short explanation or include evidence of improvement.
Managing Your Applications
After submitting, keep track of closing dates, follow-up emails, and contact details. Create a simple spreadsheet or use a notes app to record:
- Bursary name
- Closing date
- Submission method
- Documents submitted
- Contact details
- Follow-up reminders
Many organisations respond between November and February. Check your email and phone regularly.
Related: JDK Benefit Trust Bursary Progrrame (2026)
October 2025 is packed with bursary deadlines and early action matters. Whether you are in matric, already at university, or preparing for postgraduate studies, there is funding available across industries, provinces, and fields.
You can also request this list in PDF, infographic, checklist, email draft, or social media format if needed. Just say the format you want, and it will be prepared for you.
