Tiso Foundation bursary

WHAT FIELDS OF STUDY DOES THE TISO FOUNDATION BURSARY COVER?

The Tiso Foundation is inviting students to apply for their bursary programme, for the 2027 academic year.

Bursaries will be awarded to deserving previously disadvantaged students, for Undergraduate studies (Degree or Diploma) in ANY field, at any University or University of Technology.

WHAT DOES THE TISO FOUNDATION BURSARY COVER?

Students will be selected based on 2 main criteria: academic merit and financial need.

Bursary recipients will receive financial support, as well as academic support, life skills training and networking opportunities with Tiso’s corporate and institutional partners upon graduation

WHAT ARE THE ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA FOR THE TISO FOUNDATION BURSARY?

Applicants must satisfy the following minimum entry criteria before applying (please note that failure to satisfy all the requirements will lead to your application not being considered):

• You must be a South African citizen
• You must be between the ages of 18 and 34 years old
• You must be from a previously disadvantaged background (Black, Coloured or Indian)
• You must be currently in Matric or have completed Matric
• You must have achieved a minimum overall average of 70% in Matric
• You must have achieved a minimum overall average of 65%, if currently studying
• You must be studying or intend on studying full time, towards a qualification in ANY field
• You must be studying or intend on studying at a recognised and accredited tertiary institution (University or University of Technology) in South Africa
• You must be unemployed
• You must be in financial need
• You must be dedicated and committed to your studies
• You must have a positive attitude
• You must be willing to give back to the community and participate in upliftment programmes
• You must be able to provide references with your application

HOW CAN I APPLY FOR THE TISO FOUNDATION BURSARY?

Applications must be submitted online at: Tiso Foundation Bursary Application 2027

WHAT DOCUMENTS MUST I SUBMIT FOR THE TISO FOUNDATION BURSARY?

Submit clear copies of the following supporting documentation along with your online application (the submission of these documents is compulsory – if any items are missing, your application may be disqualified):

• ID document (certified copy)
• Latest Matric results, if currently in Matric (certified copy)
• Matric certificate, if completed Matric (certified copy)
• Latest tertiary results, if currently at tertiary level (certified copy)
• Proof of registration, acceptance or provisional acceptance at University or University of Technology (on institutions letterhead)
• Parents or guardians proof of household income (latest payslips if employed, affidavit if unemployed, proof of pension or grant if applicable, death certificates if deceased)

WHEN IS THE CLOSING DATE FOR THE TISO FOUNDATION BURSARY?

8 October 2026.

(Applications submitted after this date will not be accepted – please apply before the closing date to ensure your application is considered.)

HOW CAN I CONTACT THE BURSARY PROVIDER?

For any queries related to this bursary programme, please contact the Tiso Foundation directly:
Tel: 011 784 4111
Email: info@tisofoundation.co.za

WHAT DOES THE TISO FOUNDATION DO?

The Tiso Foundation is a Public Benefit Organization established in 2001 to expand  educational opportunities through bursaries, scholarships, research support and teaching-related awards. Its bursary programme has assisted more than 90 students who are pursuing degrees and national diplomas at accredited higher  education institutions.

Through partnerships with various stakeholders, the Foundation aims to support around 65 students each year. The programme focuses on identifying talented and determined students from previously disadvantaged and underprivileged backgrounds who demonstrate strong academic potential and a commitment to their education.

Working closely with South African universities, the Tiso Foundation seeks to remove financial barriers to higher education and give deserving students the opportunity to develop their skills and build