The Monocle Foundation invites South African students to apply for its Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year. This initiative is dedicated to empowering previously disadvantaged black females by providing comprehensive financial support for Undergraduate and Postgraduate studies at recognised South African tertiary institutions.
Bursary Details
- Closing Date: 01 November 2025
- Fields of Study: Bursaries are awarded for studies in various fields, including (but not limited to):
- Accounting
- Computer Science
- Economics
- Engineering
- Finance
- Mathematics
- Medicine
What the Bursary Covers
The Monocle Foundation Bursary provides full support, including:
- Tuition fees
- Book and study material allowance
- Laptop
- Accommodation
- Subsistence allowance
- Career counselling
- A free MS Office course
Shortlisting: Takes place in November 2025, with successful applicants confirmed by mid-December 2025.
Obligations of Bursary Recipients
- No repayment or work-back obligation is required after graduation.
- Recipients must regularly update the Trust on their academic progress and submit final results.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:
- South African citizen
- Female
- Black (African, Coloured, Indian, or Asian)
- Completed Matric
- Studying towards an Undergraduate or Postgraduate degree (2nd year or higher)
- Enrolled at a recognised South African tertiary institution
- In financial need (limited to no funding)
- Not receiving another bursary or financial support
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online via the official Monocle Foundation portal:
- Apply Online: Monocle Foundation Bursary Application
Required Documents:
- Certified copy of ID document
- Certified copy of Matric certificate
- Full academic record/transcripts (stamped and on institution letterhead)
- Certified copy of degree certificate (if Postgraduate)
- Breakdown of required funds for 2026 (tuition, books, accommodation, subsistence)
- Updated Curriculum Vitae
- Motivational letter addressed to the Trustees (including personal background, field of study, career goals, and reason for applying)
Application Process
- Screening: Telephonic screening with the Trust Administrator.
- Meet and Greet: Personal meeting with the Trust Administrator to get to know the applicant.
- Trustee Interview: One-on-one interview with a Trustee to better understand the applicant.
- Finalisation: Confirmation from the Trustees on the outcome of the application.
- All applicants will receive feedback on their application status.
Important Notes
- Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.
- Only shortlisted candidates will proceed to interviews.
- The Monocle Foundation reserves the right not to award bursaries based on programme requirements.
- Preference is given to students from historically disadvantaged backgrounds with demonstrated academic potential.
Why Apply?
The Monocle Foundation Bursary Programme offers comprehensive support to black female students, enabling them to focus on their studies without financial barriers. By providing not only funding but also career guidance and skills training, the programme empowers recipients