Below is a list of ongoing fully-funded and partial scholarships for students in South Africa to help fund your studies abroad or in South Africa. View list, learn how to apply for scholarships and win a scholarship today.

Candidates who would like to apply or learn more about the UNU-WIDER Visiting PhD Fellowship are encouraged to click here. Applications are currently being accepted.
Date Posted: 02 Sep, 2025

The UNU-WIDER Visiting Scholars Program 2026/2027 is now accepting applications. Interested candidates are urged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 01 Sep, 2025

Do you work as an academic researcher? Are you interested in doing your research in Germany? Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Alexander von Humboldt Foundation Fellowship. Candidates are encouraged to click here for additional information about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 01 Sep, 2025

Are you from Africa? Are you interested in studying in Canada? Applications are now being accepted for the University of British Columbia Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2026/2027. Interested candidates can click here to learn more about the opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 01 Sep, 2025

You're a recent graduate? Applications for the Immersion program in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) are now being accepted. To learn more about this opportunity and to apply, candidates can click here.
Date Posted: 01 Sep, 2025

Are you interested in studying in the Netherlands? Applications are currently being accepted for the NL Scholarship in Holland for Non-EEA Bachelor and Master Students. Interested candidates can click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 01 Sep, 2025

Are you a woman? The Schumberger Foundation Faculty for the Future Fellowship Program is now accepting applications. Interested candidates are encouraged to click here to apply and learn more about this opportunity.
Date Posted: 01 Sep, 2025

For the EJN Communicators Workshop on Renewable Energy 2025, applications are now being accepted. To learn more about this opportunity and to apply, candidates can click here.
Date Posted: 01 Sep, 2025

Are you an undergraduate or high school student who is passionate about science and exploration? Applications for the Rising Explorer Grant are currently being accepted. Candidates can click here to apply and learn more about this position.
Date Posted: 01 Sep, 2025

Do you fall within the 18–35 age range? Do you enjoy taking part in innovations led by young people? Applications are being accepted for the Youth Digital Health champions. Interested candidates can click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 01 Sep, 2025

Are you interested in getting a doctorate? The Bright Scholarship at Universiti Malaya is currently accepting applications. To learn more about this position and to apply, interested candidates can click here.
Date Posted: 01 Sep, 2025

Applications are now being accepted for Padua University's Veneto Region Scholarships. Those interested in pursuing an undergraduate or graduate degree are encouraged to click here for more information and to submit an application.
Date Posted: 01 Sep, 2025

Applications for the OISTs Visting Scholars program are now being accepted. Interested candidates are encouraged to click here to apply and learn more about this opportunity.
Date Posted: 01 Sep, 2025

The Commonwealth Short Story Prize for 2026 is now accepting applications. Interested candidates can click here to apply and learn more about this opportunity.
Date Posted: 01 Sep, 2025

Are you in the 14–30 age range? Would you like to utilize your imagination to start urgent discussions about the environmental crisis? The 2025 Earth Partner Prize is now open. To apply and find out more about this opportunity, interested candidates can click here.
Date Posted: 01 Sep, 2025

Are you prepared to advance your high-tech startup? The 2025 EIC Pre-Accelarator is now available. Candidates are encouraged to visit here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 01 Sep, 2025

Journalists from around the world are invited to apply to a newly launched fellowship to attend the International Civil Society Week (ICSW). The event will be held in Bangkok, Thailand, 1-5 November 2025 organised by CIVICUS global civil society alliance and Asia Democracy Network (ADN).
Date Posted: 30 Aug, 2025

Are you ready to take your high-tech startup to the next level? The EIC Pre-Accelerator 2025, a pilot funding initiative under WIDERA, offers an exciting opportunity for early-stage deep-tech startups in expanding countries. With grants of up to €500,000, this programme helps you validate your technology, refine your business model, and prepare for major funding rounds like the EIC Accelerator.
Date Posted: 30 Aug, 2025

The Consultants for Gender Equality Framework Agreement is currently accepting applications. Interested candidates can click this link to find out more information and submit an application.
Date Posted: 30 Aug, 2025

Do you enjoy making films? Are you a female between the ages of 13 and 25? ConnectHER Film Festival Awards are currently accepting applications for the 2025. Candidates who are interested are encouraged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 30 Aug, 2025
1. Why should I study in South Africa?
South Africa is home to some of the top universities in Africa, offering world-class education across various disciplines. The country has a vibrant cultural life, breathtaking landscapes, and opportunities for students to immerse themselves in a multicultural society.
2. What are the top universities in South Africa?
Some of the most prominent universities in South Africa include:
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
3. What are the admission requirements to study in South Africa?
Admission requirements vary depending on the university and program. Generally, students need:
A high school diploma or equivalent for undergraduate programs.
Proof of English proficiency through tests like IELTS or TOEFL (for nonnative speakers).
For postgraduate programs, a relevant bachelor's degree is required.
Some programs may have specific subject or grade requirements.
4. Are there scholarships available for international students in South Africa?
Yes, scholarships are available for both domestic and international students. Scholarships can be provided by:
The South African government through initiatives like the National Research Foundation.
Universities
International organizations and partnerships such as the Commonwealth Scholarships
5. Do I need a student visa to study in South Africa?
Yes, international students need a student visa to study in South Africa. The process requires you to provide:
Proof of admission to a South African university.
A valid passport.
Proof of financial means to support yourself during your studies.
Proof of medical insurance valid in South Africa.
6. Can I work while studying in South Africa?
Yes, international students are allowed to work part-time for up to 20 hours per week during the academic year and full-time during university holidays, as long as they hold a valid study visa.
7. What is the process for recognizing foreign qualifications in South Africa?
If you obtained your qualifications outside of South Africa, you may need to have them recognized through the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA). This process ensures your previous academic qualifications meet South African standards for higher education.