The SIOC Community Development Trust (SIOC-CDT) has officially opened the 2026 Bursary Fund for learners and students who plan to pursue post-matric studies. If you are looking for financial support for higher education, this could be a life-changing opportunity. Below is everything you need to know: who qualifies, what is covered, how to apply, and key dates.
What Is the SIOC-CDT Bursary Fund?
The bursary fund is an initiative by SIOC Community Development Trust to empower South African youth from specific beneficiary communities. Its goal is to provide financial assistance to those who want to study after matric (Grade 12), but who might be held back by financial constraints. The Trust aims to support students in achieving qualifications that will help them enter the workforce and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Who Is Eligible?
To apply for the 2026 bursary, applicants must meet several eligibility requirements:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be 35 years old or younger as of 25 November 2025.
- Have a minimum average academic mark of 65% in the most recent results.
- Be in financial need, with a gross household income of less than R600,000 per year.
- Reside in or originate from one of the SIOC-CDT beneficiary communities:
- Ga-Segonyana Local Municipality
- Gamagara Local Municipality
- Joe Morolong Local Municipality
- Tsantsabane Local Municipality
- Thabazimbi Local Municipality
- Be accepted or provisionally accepted (or at least have applied) to a public higher education institution for the 2026 academic year. Proof of acceptance or provisional acceptance is required.
- Students with disabilities are encouraged to apply; additional support (e.g. for assistive devices) may be provided.
What the Bursary Covers
The SIOC-CDT bursary is quite comprehensive. Here are the key things it can cover:
- Tuition and registration fees at the institution.
- Accommodation costs, especially if you need to move or stay away from home.
- Prescribed study material (books, required course resources).
- Laptop to assist with studies.
- Monthly stipend for living expenses.
- Assistive devices if applicable (for students with disabilities).
How to Apply
Here’s a step-by-step on how to submit your application:
- Download or access the application form.
- You can apply online via the SIOC-CDT: SIOC-CDT 2026 Online Bursary Application Form.
- There is also a manual / hard-copy option if you prefer or require it.
- Prepare all supporting documents. Typical requirements include:
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Latest academic results (Grade 12, or first semester at university, etc.).
- Proof of acceptance / provisional acceptance (or at least proof of application).
- Proof of residence (recent utility bill, affidavit, etc.).
- Proof of income for parent(s) / guardian(s), or declaration of unemployment.
- Three months bank statements of guardian(s).
- If applicable, a medical certificate for disability.
- Fill in the form carefully and completely. Incomplete or illegible applications or missing documents can lead to disqualification.
- Submit before deadline. The closing date is 25 November 2025 at 12:00 (midday).
- Where to submit (for manual applications):
- SIOC-CDT Office Park, Kathu (Corner Hendrick Van Eck and Ian Flemming Road).
- Thabazimbi Hub, Mollies Building, 11 Jourdan Street, Thabazimbi.
Key Dates and Deadlines
- Application deadline: 25 November 2025 at 12:00 (midday) sharp.
- Final academic results submission: For students who complete studies before applying, final results must be submitted by 17 January 2026.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Make sure every required document is included and certified (not older than 3 months where specified).
- Check that your academic results meet the 65% average benchmark.
- Be sure to prove residence in one of the beneficiary communities.
- If you have any disability, include proper medical documentation so you can get the extra support.
- Submit early to give yourself buffer time in case something is missing or ref needs correction.
Why This Bursary Matters
The SIOC-CDT bursary is more than just financial aid. For many students, it removes the barrier of tuition, accommodation, and materials. It allows focused study, better chances of success, and the potential to make an impact in their home communities. For SIOC-CDT’s beneficiary regions (like Gamagara, Ga-Segonyana, Joe Morolong, Tsantsabane, Thabazimbi), this is an investment in the future – in skilled graduates, local development, and sustainability.
Visit SIOC-CDT 2026 Bursary Fund for more details and to apply today.
