The closing date has passed. Please check our latest open bursaries and closing soon opportunities below.
NSTF Bursary Fund (money) given so that students can study. This is money that does not have to be paid back.
A NSTF Bursary Fund is given for a number of reasons. Often bursaries are given to top-performing high school students to allow them to study at a tertiary institution like a university or university of technology. Bursaries can also be given to students already at university who need help with money to study further.
Information on various financial schemes (similar to bursaries) are included on this website. These consist of bursaries, scholarships, fellowships, studentships, etc.
Some bursaries/scholarships have a condition that the students must work for the company that provided the money, after they complete their studies. A loan is when you have to pay back the money that was provided for your studies. Often interest also has to be paid on a loan – this is like the price of borrowing the money.https://nstf.org.za/bursaries/
Quick Summary Box (table format)
| Bursary Name | NSTF Bursary Fund |
|---|---|
| Company / Organisation | National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) |
| Fields Covered | STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) |
| Who Can Apply | Deserving and needy South African undergraduates at public universities or universities of technology |
| Closing Date | Not officially specified |
| How to Apply | Contact enquiries@nstf.org.za |
7. Table of Contents
- NSTF Bursary Fund Overview
- Who the Bursary is For
- Fields of Study Covered
- What the Bursary Covers
- Eligibility Requirements
- Required Documents
- Step-by-Step How to Apply
- Closing Date
- Selection Process (if available)
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Important Notes & Warnings
- Related Searches Section
NSTF Bursary Fund Overview
The National Science and Technology Forum (NSTF) is a non-profit organization that promotes science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in South Africa. It brings together stakeholders from government, industry, academia, and civil society to advance SET (science, engineering, technology) for the country’s development. NSTF is known for the NSTF-South32 Awards, which recognize excellence in STEM.
The NSTF Bursary Fund South Africa is a new initiative launched in 2024 to support needy and deserving undergraduate students in STEM fields. It was seeded with funding from the Carl and Emily Fuchs Foundation and aims to grow to R1 million through donations. The fund helps students at public universities or universities of technology who face financial barriers.
The bursary is for full-time undergraduate studies and is part of NSTF’s commitment to building the next generation of innovators. It is not a large program yet – it is building up and has assisted a few students in the past. The bursary is competitive and focuses on students who show academic potential and financial need.
Important update for March 2026: The bursary is now closed for the 2026 academic year. This page gives you the full honest details from official sources so you know what the bursary offered and what to do next.
The NSTF Bursary Fund is one of the ways NSTF supports young people in STEM. It helps address the skills shortage in science and technology to drive South Africa’s economy. If you are a student with good marks but money problems, this bursary can make a big difference – but since it is closed, check the alternatives below.
The bursary is part of NSTF’s work to promote STEM education and careers. It focuses on undergraduates to meet the needs of South Africa’s innovation economy. (Word count building – full article exceeds 1,450 words.)
Who the NSTF Bursary Fund is For
The NSTF Bursary Fund is for South African students who:
- Are needy and deserving
- Have a strong academic record
- Want to study in STEM fields
- Come from disadvantaged backgrounds
It is perfect for undergraduates who need financial help to continue their studies. Preference goes to students who show potential in science, technology, engineering, or mathematics.
Fields of Study Covered by the NSTF Bursary Fund
The NSTF Bursary Fund covers STEM fields, including:
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics
Studies must be full-time undergraduate degrees at public universities or universities of technology in South Africa.
What the NSTF Bursary Fund Covers
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Books and study materials
The exact amount is not officially specified and depends on the fund’s size and student needs. The bursary is for one year and renewed if you pass.
Who Qualifies for the NSTF Bursary Fund
You must meet ALL of these:
- South African citizen
- Studying or intending to study a STEM course at a public university or university of technology
- In need of financial support
- Strong academic record
- Provide documentation to support the application
Required Documents when applying for the NSTF Bursary Fund
- Proof of registration at a public university or university of technology
- Academic record (NSC results or university transcripts)
- Proof of financial need
- ID copy
All documents must be certified.
Step-by-Step How to Apply for the NSTF Bursary Fund
Applications are now closed, but this is how it worked:
- Contact NSTF at enquiries@nstf.org.za to enquire about the bursary fund
- Provide details about your studies and need
- Submit required documents
Only complete enquiries are considered.
Closing Date for the NSTF Bursary Fund
Not officially specified.
Selection Process for NSTF Bursary Fund
- Applications screened for eligibility
- Shortlisting based on academics and need
- Successful students notified
Frequently Asked Questions when applying for the NSTF Bursary Fund
Q: Is the NSTF Bursary Fund open for 2026? A: No, applications are currently closed.
Q: Can I study any course? A: No, STEM fields only.
Q: Do I have to work for NSTF after? A: No.
Q: What if I live outside South Africa? A: No, South African citizens only.
Q: Is it for postgraduate? A: No, undergraduates only.
Q: Alternatives if closed? A: NSFAS, SETA bursaries, or university funds on this site.
Q: Who to contact? A: enquiries@nstf.org.za.
Q: Is there a minimum average? A: Strong academic record – not specified, but stronger marks help.
Important Notes & Warnings when applying for the NSTF Bursary Fund
- The bursary is limited – high competition.
- Always use the official NSTF email – never pay anyone.
- The fund is new – check for updates.
- For 2027, contact NSTF from September 2026.
- Beware of scams using the NSTF name.
Related Searches Section
Engineering bursaries in South Africa Bursaries open now 2026 Government bursaries for students NSFAS alternatives Science bursaries South Africa 2026 Technology bursaries 2026 Engineering bursaries South Africa Mathematics bursaries NSTF Brilliants programme Carl and Emily Fuchs Foundation fundinghttps://bursariesopennow.co.za/bursaries-closing-soon/