Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) Bursaries 2027: Apply Now

The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) is inviting South African students to apply for its External Bursary Scheme for the 2027 academic year. This opportunity is for students pursuing full-time studies in selected fields at public universities and universities of technology. The application deadline is 30 September 2026.

Application Closing Date: 30 September 2026
Location: South African public universities and universities of technology
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Covers tuition, accommodation, laptop, meals, and transport
Minimum Qualification: Varies by field of study, generally Matric with strong academics for entry
Opportunity Type: Bursary

About the IDC External Bursary Scheme

The IDC External Bursary Scheme aims to support academically deserving South African students who face financial challenges. It focuses on developing future professionals in fields that are critical for South Africa’s industrial, financial, technological, and economic sectors. The bursary is available for full-time undergraduate studies and also for selected Honours programmes.

This bursary supports students in a range of fields, including Finance, Management, Engineering, Information Technology, Science, Law, and Education. The goal is to foster economic growth and job creation by investing in the country’s talent pool. Successful applicants will receive financial support to cover their study expenses and gain valuable academic and professional experience.

About the Industrial Development Corporation (IDC)

The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) is a South African development finance institution. Its primary mission is to support industrial development, promote economic growth, and create jobs within the country. The IDC achieves this by investing in various sectors and providing financial and non-financial support to businesses and individuals.

Through initiatives like the External Bursary Scheme, the IDC plays a key role in nurturing talent and addressing skills shortages in critical areas of the economy. The corporation is committed to contributing to South Africa’s socio-economic development by empowering its citizens through education and career opportunities.

Available Bursary Opportunities

The IDC bursary supports a wide array of fields. Funding is available for selected undergraduate qualifications and some postgraduate Honours programmes.

Finance, Management and Business Fields:

• Accounting leading to Chartered Accountancy
• Financial Management
• Internal Auditing
• Cost and Management Accounting
• Investment Management
• Risk Management
• Transport Management
• Logistics Management
• Supply Chain Management
• Entrepreneurship
• Finance
• Economics
• Econometrics
• Business Management
• Financial Accounting
• Financial Engineering

Engineering, Science and Technology Fields:

• Industrial Engineering
• Chemical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering
• Electronic Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Mechatronic Engineering
• Mining Engineering
• Civil Engineering
• Construction-related Engineering
• Quantity Surveying
• Metallurgical Engineering
• Analytical Chemistry
• Geology
• Actuarial Science
• Data Science
• Environmental Science
• Quantitative Risk Management
• Physics
• Bachelor of Science programmes
• Biotechnology
• Agricultural Studies
• Mathematics
• Statistics
• Computer Science
• Information Science
• BCom Information Systems
• Information Technology

Law and Education Fields:

• BCom Law specialising in Commercial Law
• Bachelor of Laws
• Diploma in Law Studies
• Education

Honours Programmes:

• Postgraduate Law qualifications
• Mathematics
• Statistics
• Actuarial Science
• Accounting CTA

What the IDC Bursary Offers

Successful bursary recipients can expect comprehensive financial support for their studies. The bursary aims to alleviate the financial burden of higher education, allowing students to focus on their academic performance.

The bursary may cover the following expenses:

• Full tuition fees
• University accommodation
• University-accredited off-campus accommodation
• A once-off laptop
• Meal allowance
• Transport allowance
• Other approved study-related expenses

The exact funding package will be detailed in the bursary agreement.

Programme Duration and Location

The bursary is intended for full-time studies at South African public universities and universities of technology. The duration of the bursary support will align with the standard duration of the chosen qualification. Specific details regarding programme duration are not provided in the general scheme information.

The study location is any South African public university or university of technology. Applicants must ensure their chosen institution and qualification are eligible for IDC funding.

Minimum Requirements

To be considered for the IDC External Bursary Scheme, applicants must meet several general and specific criteria. These requirements ensure that the bursary supports students who are most in need and have the potential to succeed academically.

General eligibility requirements include:

• Must be a South African citizen.
• Must be 26 years old or younger.
• Must be unemployed.
• Must demonstrate financial need.
• Must be studying or intending to study full-time.
• Must be admitted to a South African public university or university of technology.
• Must be pursuing a qualification listed among the IDC-approved fields.
• Must be studying towards a first undergraduate qualification, with exceptions for approved Honours programmes.
• Must meet the applicable academic requirements for the chosen qualification.
• Must submit all compulsory documents by the closing date.

Academic Requirements

Academic performance is a key factor in the selection process. Specific requirements vary depending on whether the applicant is a current Matric learner or a tertiary student.

For current Matric learners:

• Strong academic performance is expected.
• Preference may be given to applicants with a minimum academic score of 75%.
• Strong performance in subjects relevant to the chosen qualification is important.
• Results must meet the admission requirements of the selected public university or university of technology.
• Applicants completing Matric in 2026 must submit Grade 11 results and June 2026 results.

For current university students:

• A minimum average of 65% in the latest academic results is required.
• Satisfactory academic progress must be demonstrated.
• Admission or registration for an eligible qualification is necessary.
• The ability to maintain a minimum GPA of 60% during the funded programme is expected.

Household Income Requirements

The bursary is primarily aimed at students from low to middle-income households. This ensures that financial need is a significant factor in the selection process.

The household income threshold is:

• Up to R350,000 per year for main applicants.
• Applicants with a combined household income between R350,000 and R600,000 per year may also apply. These cases will undergo an affordability assessment.

Applicants must accurately disclose all sources of household income.

Competencies Required

While academic merit and financial need are primary considerations, certain personal qualities can also be beneficial. These competencies help students succeed in their studies and future careers.

Valued competencies may include:

• Strong communication skills
• Computer literacy
• Ability to manage time effectively
• Willingness to learn and adapt
• A proactive approach to studies
• Good problem-solving skills

Who Should Apply?

This bursary is ideal for unemployed South African youth who are financially needy and academically capable. It is suited for students who are passionate about pursuing higher education in fields that contribute to national development. If you are determined to excel in your chosen STEM, Finance, Law, or Education field and need financial assistance to achieve your academic goals, this opportunity is for you.

The bursary is particularly beneficial for those who have met university entry requirements but may struggle with the costs associated with tertiary education. It is also for students aiming for specific career paths that require specialized qualifications.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit all compulsory supporting documents. It is essential that all certified copies are recent, not older than three months from the date of certification.

The required documents generally include:

• Recently certified South African identity document (ID)
• 2026 mid-year or first-semester results
• Latest academic results if not studying during 2026
• Matric certificate, where applicable
• Grade 11 and June 2026 results for current Matric learners
• Proof of admission or application to an eligible institution
• Proof of household income (payslips, bank statements, affidavits, etc.)
• Certified identity documents for both parents or guardians
• Recently certified proof of residence

Proof of Household Income

Accurate documentation of household income is critical. Applicants must provide proof that reflects the financial situation of their parents or guardians.

Depending on the parents’ or guardians’ employment status, this may include:

• Latest certified payslips for employed parents or guardians.
• Three months of bank statements for employed parents.
• An affidavit confirming unemployment and annual income.
• Six months of bank statements for unemployed or self-employed parents.
• A SASSA letter confirming social grants received.
• Death certificates where one or both parents are deceased.
• Divorce certificate where parents are divorced.
• A sworn statement where parents are separated.

Documentation for both parents is usually required unless family circumstances prevent this.

Certification Requirements

All submitted certified copies must be recent and not older than three months. Applicants should ensure that the certification stamp is clear, the commissioner’s details are readable, and the certification date is included. All pages of the document must be clear, and no required pages should be missing.

Failure to meet these certification requirements can lead to delays or the invalidation of an application.

How to Apply for the IDC Bursary Programme 2027

Applications for the IDC External Bursary Scheme must be submitted online through the official IDC bursary portal. It is important to follow the steps carefully to ensure a complete and successful application.

Follow these steps to apply:

1. Access the official IDC Bursary Portal.
2. Register a new applicant profile.
3. Fill in all personal and academic details accurately.
4. Provide precise household income information.
5. Select the correct field of study from the approved list.
6. Upload all required supporting documents in the specified format.
7. Complete the interview questionnaire if provided.
8. Review your entire application for any errors.
9. Submit your application before the closing date.
10. Keep a record of your submission confirmation.

You can find the portal by searching for “IDC Bursary Portal” or by visiting the IDC website, navigating to “About IDC,” and then the “Bursaries” section.

Important Application Advice

Before submitting your application, take a moment to confirm a few key details. This will help prevent common mistakes and ensure your application is considered.

Ensure that:

• You meet all the basic eligibility criteria (citizenship, age, employment status).
• Your intended qualification is on the IDC’s approved list.
• You plan to study full-time at an eligible institution.
• Your certified documents are current and valid.
• All household income documents are complete and accurate.
• Your academic results meet the minimum requirements.
• The online interview questionnaire has been fully completed.

Only successful applicants will be notified, typically via email.

Closing Date

The application period for the IDC External Bursary Scheme 2027 closes on Wednesday, 30 September 2026.

It is strongly advised to submit your application well before this date. Gathering all necessary documents, especially proof of income and certified copies, can take time. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

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