The Gauteng City Region Academy (GCRA) Bursary Programme 2026 offers full-cost funding for eligible Gauteng youth pursuing undergraduate or postgraduate studies at accredited institutions. Apply online before 28 February 2026.
The Gauteng City Region Academy (GCRA) Bursary Programme for 2026 is one of the most impactful education funding opportunities available to young people living in Gauteng. At a time when many capable students are excluded from higher education due to financial barriers, this bursary exists to remove those obstacles and intentionally build a skilled, ethical, and future-ready workforce for the Gauteng City Region.
This programme goes beyond paying fees. It is about recognising talent, supporting disadvantaged learners, and creating long-term career pathways that contribute to Gauteng’s economic growth. If you are a matriculant, an undergraduate, or a postgraduate aspirant residing in Gauteng, this guide explains who qualifies, what is funded, and how to apply correctly.
Quick Overview
- Bursary Name: Gauteng City Region Academy (GCRA) Bursary
- Funding Type: Full-cost bursary (subject to contract conditions)
- Who Can Apply: Youth residing in Gauteng (18–35 years)
- Study Levels: Undergraduate and Postgraduate
- Institutions: Accredited Universities and TVET Colleges
- Special Category: Top 3 Grade 12 learners from no-fee, SSIP, and LSEN schools
- Closing Date: 28 February 2026
- Application Method: Online application
About the Gauteng City Region Academy
The Gauteng City Region Academy is a Gauteng Provincial Government agency established to build a strong pipeline of skilled, capable, and ethical professionals for the province. It does this through targeted interventions that include bursaries, internships, learnerships, skills programmes, and workplace readiness initiatives.
Unlike funding schemes that focus only on academic costs, GCRA takes a holistic approach. Its aim is to ensure young people are not only educated, but also prepared to transition successfully into the labour market and contribute meaningfully to the economy. The bursary programme is one of GCRA’s flagship interventions, prioritising merit, equity, and access.
What the GCRA Bursary Covers
The GCRA bursary covers the full cost of study, subject to the terms and conditions of the bursary contract. Funding generally includes:
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks and learning materials
- Accommodation, where applicable
- Allowances linked to approved study-related costs
This comprehensive support reduces financial pressure on students and their families, allowing recipients to focus fully on academic success. Funding is conditional, and beneficiaries are expected to maintain satisfactory academic performance and comply with the bursary agreement.
Who Can Apply for the GCRA Bursary 2026?
Applications are open to qualifying youth, with preference given to Gauteng residents.
Eligible Applicant Categories
You may apply if you fall into one of the following groups:
- Learners who have completed matric and reside in Gauteng (proof of residence required)
- Students intending to study an undergraduate qualification and who are accepted or registered at an accredited PSET institution
- Students pursuing postgraduate studies who have been accepted at an accredited higher education institution
Automatic Qualifiers (Still Must Apply Online)
The following learners automatically qualify for consideration but must still complete the online application:
- Top achievers from Gauteng schools
- Top learner from no-fee paying schools in Gauteng
- Top 3 learners from LSEN schools in Gauteng
In addition, the Top 3 Grade 12 learners from all no-fee, SSIP, and LSEN government schools in Gauteng qualify to study at a recognised university or TVET college.
Minimum Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for a GCRA bursary award, applicants must:
- Be a South African citizen by birth
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Be residing in Gauteng
- Meet the academic entry requirements of the chosen institution
- Have applied for or been accepted at an accredited PSET institution
Documents Required
Applicants must upload certified copies of the following:
- 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 or guardian, or an affidavit
- Motivation letter (maximum two pages)
- Proof of registration or acceptance from a PSET institution
- Disability or medical report, where applicable
Incorrect, missing, or uncertified documents are a common reason for rejection, so it is important to verify everything before submission.
How to Apply
- Prepare all required documents in advance
- Ensure documents are properly certified and clearly scanned
- Complete the online application form in full
- Upload all supporting documents in the correct sections
- Submit your application before 28 February 2026
- Keep proof of submission and monitor communication updates
APPLY FOR THE GAUTENG CITY REGION ACADEMY (GCRA) BURSARY PROGRAMME 2026 HERE
Conclusion
The Gauteng City Region Academy Bursary Programme 2026 is a powerful opportunity for young people in Gauteng who want to pursue higher education without the burden of financial stress. By offering full-cost funding across undergraduate and postgraduate studies, GCRA continues to invest in talent, equity, and long-term economic development in the province.
If you meet the requirements and are serious about your academic future, prepare your documents carefully and submit your application before the closing date. This bursary could be the support that unlocks your full potential and sets you on a sustainable career path.
