SACBW Foundation Bursary 2027 Opens for Female Matric Learners Across South Africa

SACBW Foundation Bursary 2027 Offers Financial Support to Future Female Business Leaders

Young South African women with dreams of studying business-related qualifications can now apply for the SACBW Foundation Bursary 2027.

The bursary programme has been established to help academically deserving female Matric learners who require financial assistance to continue their studies at a recognised higher education institution. Beyond financial support, the initiative seeks to empower young women to become future entrepreneurs, professionals, and business leaders who can contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s economy.

The South African Council for Business Women (SACBW) Foundation believes that investing in education is one of the most effective ways to create opportunities for young women and build stronger communities.

Applications for the 2027 academic year close on 31 August 2026.


Bursary Overview

Programme DetailsInformation
BursarySACBW Foundation Bursary
Academic Year2027
ProviderSouth African Council for Business Women (SACBW) Foundation
Study LevelTertiary Studies
Eligible ApplicantsFemale Matric Learners
Study FieldsBusiness, Accounting, Marketing and Entrepreneurship-related qualifications
Funding TypeBursary
Closing Date31 August 2026

About the SACBW Foundation

The South African Council for Business Women (SACBW) Foundation is committed to empowering women through education, leadership development, and entrepreneurship.

Its bursary programme supports talented young women who have demonstrated academic potential but face financial barriers to accessing higher education. By investing in future professionals, the Foundation aims to help create a new generation of women leaders who can drive innovation, business growth, and economic development in South Africa.

Successful bursary recipients will also receive recognition through the SACBW Youth Leader Award, celebrating their academic achievement and leadership potential.


Fields of Study Supported

The bursary gives preference to students intending to study qualifications in the following areas:

  • Accounting
  • Bookkeeping
  • Business Development Management
  • Digital Marketing
  • Marketing Management
  • Practical Entrepreneurship

The SACBW Foundation Board may also consider applications for other related fields, although priority will be given to the disciplines listed above.


Who Can Apply?

To qualify, applicants must meet all of the following minimum requirements:

  • Be a South African citizen.
  • Be female.
  • Be younger than 20 years of age.
  • Be currently completing Matric.
  • Achieve a minimum overall average of 70% during the current academic year.
  • Intend to study one of the approved fields in 2027.
  • Demonstrate financial need and require assistance to continue their studies.

Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee that a bursary will be awarded.


What the Bursary Supports

The SACBW Foundation Bursary provides financial assistance towards higher education and is intended to reduce the financial challenges faced by deserving students.

Approved bursary funds are paid directly to the tertiary institution, ensuring that the funding is used for educational purposes.

Recipients also become part of a programme that promotes leadership, personal growth, and women’s empowerment.


Selection Process

After applications close, eligible submissions will be reviewed by the SACBW Foundation.

Shortlisted applicants may be contacted for further communication during the selection process.

Applicants who have not received feedback by 30 September 2026 should regard their application as unsuccessful.

Selection is based on academic performance, financial need, and the quality of the supporting application documents.


Required Supporting Documents

Applicants must submit clear copies of the following:

Compulsory Documents

  • Certified copy of South African ID.
  • Certified copy of June Matric results.
  • A completed bursary application form.
  • A 250-word motivational essay explaining why you deserve the bursary.
  • A three-minute motivational video covering the same topics discussed in your essay.

Important Submission Requirements

  • Combine the completed application form and all supporting documents into one PDF document.
  • Save the PDF using your full name and surname.
  • The video may be submitted by email or through file-sharing platforms such as Dropbox or WeTransfer.

Incomplete applications may not be considered.


Application Guidelines

When completing the application:


Benefits of the Programme

Successful applicants may benefit from:

  • Financial support for tertiary studies.
  • Recognition through the SACBW Youth Leader Award.
  • Improved access to higher education.
  • Opportunities for personal and leadership development.
  • Support in pursuing business and entrepreneurship careers.
  • Increased career opportunities after graduation.

Career Opportunities

The supported qualifications can lead to careers in:

  • Accounting
  • Financial Administration
  • Bookkeeping
  • Business Development
  • Marketing
  • Digital Marketing
  • Entrepreneurship
  • Sales Management
  • Brand Management
  • Business Consulting

Graduates may also establish their own businesses or pursue further studies in commerce and management.


Application Tips

Before submitting your application:

  • Ensure your Matric average is at least 70%.
  • Write a genuine and well-structured motivational essay.
  • Record a clear, confident three-minute video.
  • Combine all required documents into one PDF file.
  • Check that certified copies are clear and valid.
  • Submit your application before the closing date.

Where to Apply

Completed applications should be emailed to the SACBW Foundation using the official bursary email address provided in the application guidelines.

Applicants should:

  • Attach the completed application form.
  • Include all supporting documents in one PDF.
  • Submit the motivational video.
  • Use “SACBW Foundation Bursary” as the email subject.

Closing Date

31 August 2026

Late or incomplete applications are unlikely to be considered.


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Who can apply?

Female South African Matric learners under the age of 20 who meet the academic and financial eligibility requirements.

What minimum academic average is required?

Applicants must have achieved at least 70% overall in their current Matric year.

Which study fields are funded?

Preference is given to:

  • Accounting
  • Bookkeeping
  • Business Development Management
  • Digital Marketing
  • Marketing Management
  • Practical Entrepreneurship

How are bursary funds paid?

Funding is paid directly to the student’s tertiary institution.

Is a motivational video required?

Yes. Applicants must submit a three-minute motivational video together with their application.

What happens if I do not receive feedback?

If you have not been contacted by 30 September 2026, you should consider your application unsuccessful.


Why This Bursary Is Worth Applying For

For many talented young women, financial challenges remain one of the biggest barriers to accessing higher education. The SACBW Foundation Bursary Programme aims to remove those barriers by supporting academically strong learners who demonstrate leadership potential and a passion for business-related careers.

In addition to financial assistance, the programme encourages confidence, entrepreneurship, and leadership—qualities that can help recipients build successful careers and make a positive contribution to South Africa’s economy.


Editorial Policy

This article has been independently prepared using publicly available information about the SACBW Foundation Bursary Programme. It is intended to help prospective applicants understand the eligibility requirements and application process. Applicants should always verify the latest information with the SACBW Foundation before applying.


Sources and References

  • South African Council for Business Women (SACBW) Foundation
  • SACBW Foundation Bursary Application Information
  • Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
  • South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)

Disclaimer: This article is an independent editorial guide and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the SACBW Foundation. Bursary requirements, funding availability, selection criteria, and application procedures may change without notice. Applicants should consult the official SACBW Foundation application documents for the most current information before submitting an application.

Mosley Dupree

About the Author — Mosley Dupree Mosley Dupree is the publisher and lead writer at Setaco Students (https://www.setaco.co.za), where she shares practical advice, opportunities, and guidance to help South African students and youth succeed in their learning journeys. With a passion for education and skills development, Mosley focuses on learnerships, funding options, career tips, and study skills to support young people in building meaningful futures. Her work aims to inspire, inform, and empower young learners to pursue their goals with confidence and clarity. Get in touch on: [email protected]

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