Apply for the Gauteng City Region Academy (GCRA) Bursary Programme 2026. Full-cost funding for all fields of study, with preference for Gauteng youth. Closing date: 28 February 2026.
Gauteng City Region Academy invites eligible South African youth to apply for the GCRA Bursary Programme 2026. This highly regarded bursary supports academically deserving students to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies at accredited institutions of higher learning in South Africa.
Closing Date: 28 February 2026
The GCRA bursary is one of the most inclusive funding opportunities available, covering all fields of study and prioritising youth development within Gauteng.
About the GCRA Bursary Programme 2026
The GCRA Bursary Programme is a Gauteng Provincial Government initiative that provides full-cost funding, subject to the terms and conditions of the bursary contract. The programme is designed to remove financial barriers to higher education and to build a skilled, competitive youth population that contributes to economic growth.
Funding is available for both first-time entrants and continuing students, provided they meet the eligibility criteria and submit a complete online application.
Who Can Apply?
Applications are open to the following categories:
- Learners who have completed Matric and reside in Gauteng (proof of residence required)
- Students intending to study towards an undergraduate qualification and who are accepted or registered at an accredited institution
- Students pursuing postgraduate studies and accepted at an accredited institution of higher learning
Automatically Qualifying Categories
Applicants in the categories below must still complete the online application process:
- Top achievers from Gauteng schools
- Top learner from no-fee paying schools in Gauteng
- Top three learners from LSEN schools in Gauteng
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the GCRA Bursary Award, applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen by birth
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Preference will be given to youth from Gauteng
- Be studying or intending to study at an accredited institution of higher learning in South Africa
Fields of Study Covered
The GCRA bursary covers all fields of study, including:
- Undergraduate qualifications
- Postgraduate qualifications
This makes the bursary suitable for students across a wide range of academic and professional pathways.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must upload certified and valid copies of the following documents:
- Certified copy of South African ID (by birth)
- Proof of Gauteng residence (utility bill or ward councillor letter)
- Matric certificate and/or latest academic results
- Proof of income of parent(s) or guardian(s), or an affidavit
- Motivation letter (maximum two pages)
- Proof of registration or acceptance letter from an accredited institution
- Disability or medical report, where applicable
Incomplete or incorrectly submitted applications may be disqualified.
How to Apply for the GCRA Bursary 2026
All applications must be submitted online through the official GCRA Bursary Portal.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Register an account
https://gcrabursary.gauteng.gov.za/Account/Register
Step 2: Log in to your account
https://gcrabursary.gauteng.gov.za/Account/Login
Step 3: Complete the online application
- Enter your personal and academic details
- Provide institution and course information
- Upload all required supporting documents
Ensure that all information is accurate before final submission.
Closing Date
Applications close on 28 February 2026.
Late applications will not be accepted. Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible.
Important Notes
- The bursary covers the full cost of study, subject to the bursary contract
- Preference is given to Gauteng residents
- Shortlisted candidates may be subject to verification and background checks
Conclusion
The Gauteng City Region Academy Bursary Programme 2026 offers a powerful opportunity for young South Africans to access higher education without financial pressure. With funding available for all fields of study and strong support for Gauteng youth, this bursary can open doors to academic success and long-term career growth. Eligible students are encouraged to prepare their documents carefully and submit their applications well before the closing date to maximise their chances of success.
