Are you a passionate law student looking to pursue your studies without the burden of financial stress? The Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr (CDH) Bursary Programme for 2026 is a remarkable opportunity for ambitious students to access financial assistance, mentorship, and career growth at one of South Africa’s top corporate law firms.
Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr Inc (CDH), a highly respected full-service law firm, is committed to nurturing the next generation of legal professionals. Through its bursary initiative, the firm invests in academically strong students who show dedication, leadership potential, and the ambition to excel in the legal field.
Who Can Apply?
The bursary is open to both undergraduate and postgraduate students pursuing an LLB degree at a recognised South African university. Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens.
- Be registered or planning to register for an LLB degree.
- Achieve a minimum average of 65% across all subjects.
- Demonstrate commitment to a legal career and be willing to complete vacation work with CDH.
- Show leadership qualities, integrity, and the ability to adapt in a dynamic professional environment.
Preference is typically given to students in their second year of study or higher, including final-year students seeking graduate placement opportunities.
What the Bursary Covers
The CDH bursary provides wide-ranging support, which may include:
- Full coverage of tuition and registration fees.
- Prescribed textbooks and study materials.
- Accommodation and meals (depending on assessed financial need).
- Mentorship and career guidance from senior CDH professionals.
- Vacation work opportunities at CDH offices, offering hands-on experience in corporate law.
Beyond Financial Support
What sets the CDH bursary apart is the career pathway it creates. Successful bursars are often considered for candidate attorney positions at CDH after graduation. This means recipients are not only financially supported but also gain a direct route into one of South Africa’s leading law firms.
In addition, each bursar is paired with a mentor who provides both academic and professional guidance. This ensures that recipients develop into well-rounded individuals who are prepared for the challenges of a legal career.
How to Apply
Interested applicants must submit the following documents:
- A detailed CV.
- A certified copy of the South African ID.
- Full academic transcripts and proof of university registration.
- A motivational letter explaining career goals, passion for law, and reasons for applying.
Apply for the Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr (CDH) Bursary Programme for 2026 here: Apply Online
Why Choose CDH?
By joining the CDH bursary programme, students gain access to:
- A professional environment that fosters continuous learning.
- Practical exposure to multiple fields of law, such as litigation, mergers and acquisitions, banking and finance, and employment law.
- The chance to work alongside some of the most experienced legal experts in the country.
Conclusion
The Cliffe Dekker Hofmeyr Bursary Programme for 2026 is more than a funding opportunity—it is a launchpad into a rewarding legal career. If you are academically driven, passionate about law, and ready to make a difference in the profession, this bursary can help shape your future.
Closing Date: 30 September 2025