Tiso Foundation

Undergraduate Bursary Programme

Home Undergraduate Bursary Programme

About the Programme

The Tiso Foundation is dedicated to unlocking South Africa’s potential by providing high-impact bursaries to talented, previously disadvantaged youth. Our programme empowers students to overcome financial barriers, excel academically, and launch meaningful careers that uplift their communities.

What We Offer

  • Beyond financial support for degrees and national diplomas at accredited institutions, beneficiaries receive:
  • Academic Support: Guidance to ensure you reach your full potential.
  • Life Skills Training: Holistic development for the modern workplace.
  • Career Access: Networking opportunities with our corporate and institutional partners upon graduation.

Programme Aims

To promote equity in the workplace by supporting strong black students to acquire the necessary academic qualifications

To help address the skills shortage in the economy

To address challenges of poverty through the avenue of human capital development

Selection Criteria

Candidates must meet the following criteria to be considered for the programme:

Age: Must be between the ages of 18 and 34.

Citizenship: Students must be South African citizens.

Background: You must be from the previously disadvantaged groups as outlined by the South African government (Black, Coloured or Indian).

Matric Results: Must be in possession of excellent matric results with a minimum average of 70%.

Tertiary Results: Must produce excellent results if already registered as a full-time student — a minimum of 65% average.

Financial Status: Must be financially needy and unemployed.

Character: Must portray an excellent positive attitude.

Commitment: Must be dedicated to their studies.

Documentation: Must provide references.

Social Responsibility: Must be willing to give back to the community.

Our Impact

By providing holistic funding to students annually, we aim to address the national skills shortage, promote workplace equity, and break the cycle of poverty through human capital development.

 

What We Don’t Fund

  • We only fund degree courses, not higher certificates
  • We don’t fund private institutions
  • We don’t fund distance learning

Ready to Apply?

If you meet the selection criteria and are passionate about your future, we’d love to hear from you.