Social Work Bursaries in South Africa 2026
Social work and community development bursaries. Browse 5 funding opportunities — updated May 2026.
Related fields:
Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship
Allan Gray Orbis Foundation
The Allan Gray Orbis Foundation Fellowship is South Africa's most prestigious entrepreneurship-focused bursary, open to any field of study. No workback obligation.
NRF Postgraduate Funding (Honours, Masters & PhD)
National Research Foundation (NRF)
The NRF funds postgraduate research students (Honours through PhD) across science, engineering, humanities, and social science fields. No workback, no financial need requirement.
National Skills Fund (NSF) Bursary
National Skills Fund (NSF) — DHET
The NSF funds students in scarce and critical skills fields — including medicine, engineering, social work, and agriculture — at university and TVET level.
Provincial Health Department Bursary (Medicine, Nursing & Allied Health)
Department of Health (Provincial)
Provincial health departments fund medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and allied health students who commit to working in public healthcare after graduation.
NIHSS Postgraduate Bursary (Humanities & Social Sciences)
National Institute for the Humanities and Social Sciences (NIHSS)
NIHSS funds postgraduate research in humanities, social sciences, law, and education. One of the few dedicated postgraduate bursaries for humanities students in South Africa.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Social Work bursaries are available in South Africa in 2026?
There are 5 social work bursaries currently listed on our platform, including corporate, government, and SETA-funded opportunities. They range from partial tuition bursaries to full cost-of-study awards.
When do Social Work bursary applications open?
Most corporate bursaries open between August and October for the following academic year. Some government bursaries accept applications year-round. Always check the official provider website for exact dates.
What marks do I need for a Social Work bursary?
Academic requirements vary by provider. Most social work bursaries require a minimum average of 60–70%. Some merit bursaries require 75%+ while others prioritise financial need over marks.