Free State Provincial Government Bursaries 2027: Study Funding for Critical Skills
The Free State Office of the Premier is offering bursaries for the 2027 academic year to students residing in the Free State province. This programme aims to support studies in critical skills areas to develop the province’s future workforce. Applications are open to individuals currently in Matric or who have completed Matric, and who meet specific household income and residency requirements.
Application Closing Date: 13 November 2026 at 16:00
Location: Free State Province, South Africa
Programme Duration: Not specified
Stipend: Not specified (funding for tuition, textbooks, living allowance, etc. may be provided)
Minimum Qualification: Matric or equivalent
About the Free State Provincial Government Bursary
The Free State Provincial Government Bursary Programme is designed to help students pursue qualifications in fields that are in high demand within the province. By supporting these studies, the programme aims to build a skilled workforce that can contribute to the economic growth and development of the Free State. It focuses on areas identified as scarce and critical skills.
This bursary supports full-time studies towards a Diploma or Degree at a recognised South African university or university of technology. It is intended for individuals who are committed to working within relevant service sectors in the province after completing their studies. The programme also provides additional student support to help recipients succeed academically and emotionally.
About the Free State Provincial Government
The Free State Provincial Government is the executive branch of the government of the Free State province in South Africa. It is responsible for administering provincial affairs, including education, health, and economic development. The Office of the Premier leads the provincial government and oversees various departments and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of its residents and fostering provincial growth.
Available Bursary Opportunities
Bursaries are available for studies in the following fields:
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics
- Finance
- Economics
- Accounting
- Psychology-related studies
- Social Sciences
- Aviation Studies
- Public Administration
- Public Governance
- Development Studies
- Other related BAdmin qualifications
What the Bursary Covers
Successful applicants may receive funding for various study-related expenses. This can include:
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Learning aid devices, where applicable
- Meals
- Accommodation, where applicable
- Transport, where applicable
- A monthly living allowance, where applicable
Additionally, bursary recipients may benefit from student support services. These services are provided through the Student Liaison and Support Unit for academic and emotional guidance, and the Stakeholder Support Unit to help coordinate between students and their institutions.
Programme Duration and Location
The duration of the bursary programme is not specified. The bursaries are intended for students residing within the Free State Province, South Africa, who will be studying at recognised institutions within the country.
Minimum Requirements
To be considered for the Free State Provincial Government Bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be South African citizens.
- Reside within the Free State province.
- Be between 18 and 35 years old.
- Be currently in Matric or have completed Matric.
- Have a total household income of less than R600,000 per year.
- Be studying or planning to study full-time.
- Be pursuing a Diploma or Degree in one of the approved fields of study.
- Have been accepted at a recognised and accredited South African University or University of Technology.
- Not be receiving funding from another government source.
- Be unemployed.
- Be willing to work within relevant service sectors after completing their studies.
Preference will be given to applicants from previously disadvantaged backgrounds.
Competencies Required
While specific competencies are not listed, applicants should demonstrate a strong commitment to their studies and a willingness to contribute to the Free State province. A desire to work in critical skills areas and a responsible attitude towards academic and future professional commitments are important.
Who Should Apply?
This bursary is ideal for unemployed South African youth residing in the Free State who are passionate about pursuing further education in fields like science, technology, engineering, mathematics, finance, or public administration. It is suited for individuals who have completed Matric or are currently in their final year and are looking for financial support to achieve their academic goals. Applicants must be committed to contributing their skills to the province after graduation.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit the following documents:
- Certified copy of South African ID.
- Certified Matric September results if currently in Matric.
- Certified Matric certificate if Matric has already been completed.
- Proof of acceptance from a registered Higher Education Institution.
- Proof of residence not older than three months.
- Certified copies of parents’ or guardians’ ID documents.
- Death certificates if parents or guardians are deceased.
- Proof of household income.
Proof of household income may include:
- Latest payslips (not older than three months).
- An affidavit if unemployed.
- Proof of SASSA grant.
- Proof of pension income.
How to Apply
Applicants must complete the official Free State Office of the Premier bursary application form.
Click here to download the Free State Office of the Premier Bursary Application Form.
Application forms can also be collected from various locations including the Free State Office of the Premier, FSTDI, OR Tambo Building, Thusong Centres, Central University of Technology, and the University of the Free State.
Completed applications must be hand-delivered to the Bursary Unit at the Reception area in the FSTDI Brahman Building, 124 Nelson Mandela Drive, Westdene, Bloemfontein, 9301.
Important Notes
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applicants who do not hear back within four months after the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful. Ensure all documents are certified and that the application form is completed accurately.
Closing Date
The closing date for applications is 13 November 2026 at 16:00. Applications received after this time will not be accepted.
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