If you are still searching for funding for the 2026 academic year, February is a critical month. Several major bursaries in South Africa are closing on 28 February 2026, and missing these deadlines could mean losing out on valuable financial support for your studies.

In this article, we highlight key bursaries closing on 28 February 2026, explain what they offer, and share practical tips to help you submit a strong application.

Why February Deadlines Matter

Many bursary providers open applications toward the end of the previous year and close them early in the new year. February is often the final opportunity for students who:

• Were waiting for university acceptance letters

• Are appealing NSFAS decisions

• Did not apply earlier

• Are seeking alternative funding

Funding competition is high, and bursary providers are strict about closing dates. As noted on multiple bursary listings, once the deadline has passed, applications are not accepted.

If you are planning to study in 2026 and still need funding, now is the time to act.

Major Bursaries Closing on 28 February 2026

Here are some of the most important bursaries closing at the end of February:

1. Bheki Mlangeni Memorial Scholarship
2. GCRA Bursary 

3. Poliomyelitis Research Foundation (PRF) Bursaries

4. South African Association of Botanists (SAAB) Scholarship

5. FASSET Bursary

6. Two Rivers Platinum Bursary

1. Bheki Mlangeni Memorial Scholarship

Closing Date: 28 February 2026

The Bheki Mlangeni Memorial Scholarship supports postgraduate students, particularly those pursuing studies in journalism and media-related fields. The scholarship aims to promote transformation and excellence within South African media and communications.

This opportunity is ideal for students who:

• Are passionate about journalism and storytelling

• Want to contribute to ethical and transformative media

• Are pursuing postgraduate qualifications

If you are studying in communications, journalism, or media studies, this is one bursary you should not ignore.

Apply for the Bheki Mlangeni Memorial Scholarship Online 

2. Gauteng City-Region Academy (GCRA) Bursary

Closing Date: 28 February 2026

The GCRA Bursary is one of the most popular provincial bursaries in South Africa. It supports students who are residents of Gauteng and studying at approved institutions.

The bursary is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Funding may cover:

• Tuition fees

• Accommodation

• Other study-related expenses (depending on financial need)

If you are a Gauteng resident studying at a public institution, this bursary can significantly reduce your financial burden.

Apply for the GCRA Bursary Now

3. Poliomyelitis Research Foundation (PRF) Bursaries

Closing Date: 28 February 2026

The Poliomyelitis Research Foundation offers funding to honours, master’s, and doctoral students conducting research in health and medical sciences.

This bursary is particularly suited for students who:

• Are involved in research

• Are studying health sciences, biomedical sciences, or related fields

• Aim to contribute to improved health outcomes in South Africa

Postgraduate research can be expensive, and this bursary provides valuable financial support for academic advancement.

Apply for the Poliomyelitis Research Foundation (PRF) Bursary 

4. South African Association of Botanists (SAAB) Scholarship

Closing Date: 28 February 2026

The SAAB Scholarship supports students in botanical and plant sciences. According to February listings, this scholarship closes on 28 February 2026.

This opportunity is ideal for:

• Students studying botany or plant science

• Environmental science students

• Those pursuing research in biodiversity and conservation

With climate change and environmental sustainability becoming increasingly important, funding in this field is highly valuable.

South African Association of Botanists (SAAB) Scholarship Applications Portal

5. FASSET Bursary

Closing Date: 28 February 2026

The FASSET Bursary supports students in finance, accounting, and related fields. Listings confirm that the closing date falls on 28 February 2026.

If you are studying:

• Accounting

• Auditing

• Financial management

• Taxation

This bursary could be an excellent funding opportunity, especially for students aiming for professional qualifications.

FASSET Bursary Online Applications for 2026

6. Two Rivers Platinum Bursary

Closing Date: 28 February 2026

The Two Rivers Platinum Bursary is also listed among bursaries closing at the end of February 2026.

Typically, mining-sector bursaries support students in:

• Engineering

• Geology

• Mining-related disciplines

Students residing near mining communities are often encouraged to apply.

Apply Online for Two Rivers Platinum Bursary 

Other February Bursaries (Earlier Closing Dates)

While this article focuses on 28 February deadlines, it’s worth noting that many other bursaries close earlier in the month, including:

• Armscor Bursary (26 February 2026) 

• SAAFoST Study Grants (27 February 2026) 

• ERWAT Bursary (20 February 2026) 

If you are reading this before the end of February, check whether these earlier deadlines are still open.

What Documents Do You Need?

While each bursary has its own requirements, most will ask for:

• Certified copy of your ID

• Matric certificate or latest academic record

• Proof of university registration or acceptance

• Proof of household income

• Proof of residence

• A motivational letter

Application advice from February bursary guides recommends preparing certified copies and submitting applications before the deadline, as late submissions are not accepted.

Why You Should Apply for Multiple Bursaries

One common mistake students make is applying for only one bursary. If that application is unsuccessful, they are left without funding.

Online discussions among South African students show that many experience stress when funding falls through or when they apply too late.

To increase your chances:

• Apply for at least 3–5 bursaries

• Track deadlines carefully

• Keep digital copies of all documents

• Submit applications early

Remember: you can decline a bursary later if you receive multiple offers.

Important Reminders

1. Do not apply after the deadline. Most providers strictly enforce closing dates 

2. Double-check requirements. Missing documents can disqualify your application.

3. Write a strong motivational letter. Explain your goals, financial need, and career plans clearly.

4. Avoid scams. Legitimate bursaries do not charge application fees.

Final Thoughts

February is one of the busiest months in South Africa’s bursary calendar. If you are planning to study in 2026 and still need funding, the bursaries closing on 28 February 2026 could be your last major opportunity for early-year funding.

Opportunities like the GCRA Bursary, Bheki Mlangeni Memorial Scholarship, PRF Bursaries, FASSET Bursary, and SAAB Scholarship offer support across multiple disciplines — from finance and journalism to science and research.

Do not wait until the final day. Prepare your documents, review each bursary’s official guidelines carefully, and submit your applications as soon as possible.