Tomorrow Trust Bursary 2026: Fully Funded STEM Support in South Africa

Who can apply

• You must be a South African citizen
• You must be between 18 and 35 years old
• You must be currently in Matric or have completed Matric
• You must be studying or intend on studying full-time, towards an undergraduate degree within one of the fields of study listed above
• You must have achieved a minimum overall average of 60%
• You must be studying or intend on studying at a recognised public university in South Africa
• You must have a total household income of NOT MORE than R350 000 per year

How to apply

Applications are submitted directly to Tomorrow Trust - we do not collect applications. Read the eligibility criteria, prepare your supporting documents, then complete your application on the official page.

Full details

Financial pressure should never end your academic journey.

The Tomorrow Trust has opened applications for its 2026 bursary programme - offering more than just tuition support.

This is full funding plus structured mentorship, psychosocial support, and career preparation designed to help students not only access university - but complete their degrees successfully.

Quick Overview (2026 Intake)

• Application Deadline: 18 February 2026
• Who Can Apply: Orphaned and vulnerable youth
• Age Range: 18 - 35 years
• Study Location: Any recognised public university in South Africa
• Minimum Academic Requirement: 60% overall average

What the Tomorrow Trust Bursary Covers

This is a comprehensive funding package structured to eliminate academic and financial barriers.

1. Full Academic Costs

• 100% tuition fees
• Prescribed textbooks

2. Essential Study Equipment

• Laptops (where required)
• Lab gear for engineering/science degrees

3. Living Support

• Accommodation funding
• Monthly living allowance

4. Wrap-Around Support (What Makes It Different)

Unlike standard bursaries, this programme includes:

• Professional mentorship
• Emotional and psychosocial support
• Career-readiness masterclasses
• Academic guidance throughout your degree

This model increases graduation success - not just university access.

Priority Fields of Study for 2026

The Trust prioritises high-impact STEM qualifications:

Engineering

• Chemical Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering

Technology

• Information Technology (IT)
• Computer Science

General Science

• Selected BSc degrees

Eligibility Criteria (Check Before Applying)

You must meet all the following:

• South African citizen
• Between 18 - 35 years old
• Completed Matric
• Current students must maintain at least 60% average
• Accepted or registered for full-time study at a public SA university

How to Apply for the Tomorrow Trust Bursary 2026

Applications are submitted online only.

Step 1: Visit the Official Application Portal

Go directly to the Tomorrow Trust website.

Step 2: Prepare Certified Documents

(All documents must be certified within the last 3 months)

• South African ID
• Matric certificate
• Full academic transcript (if already studying)
• University acceptance letter or proof of 2026 registration

Step 3: Complete & Submit Before Deadline

Submit before 18 February 2026. Late or incomplete applications are not considered.

Application Strategy (Increase Your Chances)

The Tomorrow Trust looks beyond marks.

In your motivational statement:

• Explain personal challenges you’ve overcome
• Show resilience and growth
• Demonstrate community involvement
• Share long-term career goals
• Highlight how you plan to give back to society

Focus on impact - not just grades.

💡 Application Hack: The Tomorrow Trust values “holistic growth.” When filling out your personal statement, don’t just talk about your grades. Use our 2026 Guide to Writing a Winning Motivational Letter to explain how you have overcome challenges and how you plan to give back to society.

Why This Bursary Matters in 2026

South Africa continues to face a shortage of STEM professionals.

By funding vulnerable youth in science and engineering, the Tomorrow Trust is building:

• Skilled engineers
• Tech innovators
• Science professionals
• Community leaders

This bursary invests in long-term national development.

Funding Alternatives

If you don’t qualify yet, also explore:

FAQs - Tomorrow Trust Bursary 2026: Full STEM Funding for SA Students

Applications close on 18 February 2026.

Yes. Accommodation and monthly living allowances are included.

Yes. As long as you have proof of acceptance at a public university.

A minimum 60% overall academic average.

No. Only recognised public universities in South Africa qualify.

Frequently asked questions

Sources

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