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.

The IIASA Young Scientists Summer Program (YSSP) for Doctoral Students Worldwide 2026 is now accepting applications. Interested candidates are urged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 28 Oct, 2025

Applications for the 2025–2026 FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund are now being accepted. Interested candidates are urged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 28 Oct, 2025

The Motsepe Presidential Research Accelerator Fund for Africa 2025/2026 at Harvard University is now accepting applications. To learn more about this opportunity and to apply, interested applicants are urged to visit here.
Date Posted: 28 Oct, 2025

The Wild Animal Initiative is now accepting applications for its 2025 Challenge Grants. Interested candidates are urged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 27 Oct, 2025

The Gitlab Foundation AI for Economic Opportunity Fund 2025 is now accepting applications. Interested candidates are urged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 27 Oct, 2025

The Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest 2025 is now accepting entries. Interested candidates are urged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 27 Oct, 2025

Applications for the AGORA Docs in Progress Program 2026 are being accepted at this time. Interested candidates are urged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 27 Oct, 2025

Applications for the Global Youth Challenge 2026 are being accepted at this time. Interested candidates are urged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 27 Oct, 2025

We are currently accepting applications for the UNESCO Call for Case Studies on Climate Action in World Heritage Cities. Interested candidates are encouraged to click here to learn more and apply.
Date Posted: 27 Oct, 2025

The Dalai Lama Fellowship for Emerging Social Innovators 2026 is now accepting applications. Interested candidates are urged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 27 Oct, 2025

The Direct Aid Program Surabaya Small Grants for Sustainable Development Projects 2025-2026 is now accepting applications. Interested candidates are urged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 27 Oct, 2025

The Hallas-Møller Ascending Investigator Grant Program 2026 is now accepting applications. Interested candidates are urged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 27 Oct, 2025

The Sillerman First Book Prize for African Poetry is now accepting submissions. Interested candidates are urged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 27 Oct, 2025

Apply for the #iWill Fund Program 2025 is currently being accepted. Candidates who wish to apply and learn more about this opportunity are encouraged to click here.
Date Posted: 27 Oct, 2025

Are you developing technology that makes use of imaging, photonics, or optics to address industry challenges? The Luminate Accelerator Program 2026 is now accepting applications. Interested candidates are urged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 25 Oct, 2025

The Global Innovation Lab for Climate Finance 2026 is now accepting applications. Interested candidates are urged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 25 Oct, 2025

The NRF/SARAO Graduate In-Training Program for Young South African Graduates 2026 is now accepting applications. Candidates are encouraged to visit here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 25 Oct, 2025

The Snowflake Startup Challenge 2026 is presently accepting applications until the deadline. Interested candidates are urged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 24 Oct, 2025

The UN Trust Fund to End Violence against Women and Girls 2025 is now accepting applications. Interested candidates are urged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 24 Oct, 2025

The Science without Borders Challenge International Art Competition 2026, organized by the Khaled bin Sultan Living Oceans Foundation, is now accepting applications. Interested candidates are urged to click here to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.
Date Posted: 24 Oct, 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.