If you are a high-performing South African student dreaming of a career in technology, engineering, business, science, or innovation, the Vodacom External Bursary Programme could be one of the most valuable opportunities available to you.
Check if you Qualify for this Bursary Before you Apply
Higher education costs continue to rise, making it difficult for many talented students to pursue their studies. Through this bursary programme, Vodacom invests in academically strong students who demonstrate the potential to become future leaders in South Africa’s economy.
The bursary does far more than simply cover tuition fees. Successful applicants receive comprehensive financial support, workplace exposure, career development opportunities, technology tools, and wellness support throughout their academic journey.
Applications are currently open and will close on 31 August 2026.
Quick Overview
- Programme: Vodacom External Bursary Programme 2027
- Application Closing Date: 31 August 2026
- Funding Type: Full Academic Merit Bursary
- Study Level: Undergraduate Studies
- Eligible Students:
- Grade 12 learners
- First-year students
- Second-year students
- Third-year students
- Citizenship Requirement: South African citizen by birth
- Study Mode: Full-time undergraduate studies
- Fields of Study:
- Science
- Technology
- Engineering
- Mathematics (STEM)
- Business and Commercial-related qualifications
- Additional Benefits:
- Laptop
- Cellphone
- Vacation work opportunities
- Work readiness training
- Wellness programme support
What Does the Vodacom External Bursary Cover?
Successful applicants may receive funding for:
Tuition Fees
The bursary covers:
- Full registration fees
- Full tuition fees
This removes one of the biggest financial barriers to obtaining a university qualification.
Accommodation Support
The programme provides:
- Full university accommodation where applicable
- Capped private accommodation allowance
Accommodation support ensures students can focus on their studies in a stable living environment.
Textbook Allocation
Students receive funding for:
- Prescribed textbooks
- Academic learning materials
This helps ensure bursars have access to the resources required for academic success.
Meal Allowance
A meal allowance is provided to assist students with daily living expenses while studying.
Additional Benefits Beyond Financial Support
One aspect that makes the Vodacom bursary stand out is the additional development opportunities offered to bursars.
Laptop
Successful students receive a laptop to support their studies.
In today’s academic environment, access to reliable technology is essential for:
- Research
- Assignments
- Online learning
- Virtual collaboration
Cellphone
Bursars also receive a cellphone to help them remain connected and accessible.
Orientation Workshop
All newly accepted bursars attend an orientation workshop designed to help them transition successfully into the programme.
The workshop introduces students to:
- Programme expectations
- Academic success strategies
- Available support services
- Career development opportunities
Vacation Work Programme
Students gain valuable workplace exposure through Vodacom’s structured vacation work programme.
This practical experience helps students:
- Understand industry expectations
- Build professional networks
- Develop workplace skills
- Strengthen their CVs
Work Readiness Training
Final-year bursars receive work readiness training to prepare them for employment after graduation.
Topics may include:
- Professional communication
- Interview preparation
- Workplace etiquette
- Career planning
- Professional branding
Wellness Programme
Students receive access to a wellness programme through Vodacom’s partnership with Lyra Wellbeing Services.
Support may include:
- Mental wellness resources
- Emotional support services
- Counselling assistance
- Personal wellbeing tools
This demonstrates Vodacom’s commitment to supporting students academically and personally.
Who Can Apply?
To qualify for the Vodacom External Bursary Programme 2027, applicants must meet the following requirements.
Citizenship
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens by birth
Academic Requirements for Grade 12 Learners
Applicants currently in Grade 12 must:
- Pass Grade 12 with university exemption
- Achieve an average of 70% or higher across all subjects
Academic Requirements for Current University Students
Students already studying at a tertiary institution must:
- Be enrolled for full-time undergraduate studies
- Achieve a minimum average of 65% or higher
Study Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be studying or intending to study full-time
- Attend a recognised South African tertiary institution
Fields of Study Supported
Vodacom primarily supports qualifications aligned with future skills and economic growth sectors.
These include:
STEM Fields
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Data Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Mathematics
- Statistics
- Physics
- Actuarial Science
Business and Commercial Fields
- Accounting
- Finance
- Economics
- Business Management
- Marketing
- Supply Chain Management
- Commerce-related qualifications
Students pursuing these disciplines are encouraged to apply if they meet the academic requirements.
How to Apply
Step 1: Check Your Eligibility
Before starting your application, ensure that:
- You meet all academic requirements
- You are a South African citizen by birth
- You intend to study or are studying full-time
- Your qualification falls within eligible fields
Vodacom recommends using:
- A desktop computer
- Laptop
- Tablet device
- Google Chrome browser
This helps ensure the best application experience.
Step 2: Submit Your Online Application
Once eligible:
- Click the Apply Now button on the bursary portal
- Register your profile
- Complete all required information
- Upload supporting documents
Most importantly:
- Attach your latest academic transcript
Applications without academic records may not be considered.
Step 3: Application Assessment
After submission:
- You will receive confirmation that your application has been received
- The Bursary Management Team will evaluate your application
- Feedback will be provided throughout the process
Supporting Documents You Should Prepare
Although requirements may vary, students should generally prepare:
- Certified South African ID copy
- Grade 11 or Grade 12 results
- Latest academic transcript
- Proof of university acceptance (if available)
- Proof of registration (if applicable)
- Proof of residence
- Any additional documents requested during application
Tips to Improve Your Chances
Competition for prestigious bursaries can be intense.
To strengthen your application:
- Maintain strong academic results
- Ensure all documents are certified and clear
- Upload your latest academic transcript
- Complete every section carefully
- Apply well before the closing date
- Use a professional email address
- Double-check all information before submission
Remember that academic performance remains one of the most important selection factors.
Related Articles:
Bursary Application Calendar for South African Students: When to Apply and Never Miss a Deadline
How to Prepare for Bursary Interviews: A Complete Guide for South African Students
What Happens After You Apply for a Bursary? Understanding the Selection Process
How to Find Fully Funded Bursaries in South Africa: A Complete Guide for Students
Common Reasons South African Bursary Applications Get Rejected (And How to Avoid Them)
NSFAS vs Bursaries vs Scholarships: What Is the Difference?
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Edupstairs Advice
The Vodacom External Bursary Programme is more than a funding opportunity. It is a talent development programme designed to help students succeed academically and professionally.
If you qualify, do not hesitate to apply.
Focus on maintaining excellent academic results, prepare all supporting documents in advance, and submit a complete application before the closing date.
Students in STEM, technology, engineering, science, and business fields should particularly consider this opportunity because of the valuable workplace exposure and career development support offered by Vodacom.
The combination of full funding, technology support, wellness services, and work experience makes this one of the bursary opportunities worth serious consideration for 2027.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- When does the Vodacom External Bursary Programme 2027 close?
Applications close on 31 August 2026.
- Can Grade 12 learners apply?
Yes. Grade 12 learners may apply if they achieve university exemption and an average of 70% or higher.
- Can university students apply?
Yes. First-year, second-year, and third-year students may apply if they maintain a minimum average of 65%.
- Does the bursary cover accommodation?
Yes. The programme provides support for university accommodation and capped private accommodation.
- Does the bursary provide a laptop?
Yes. Successful bursars receive a laptop.
- Does the bursary include work experience?
Yes. Students gain workplace exposure through Vodacom’s structured vacation work programme.
- Is the bursary only for engineering students?
No. The programme supports STEM qualifications as well as selected business and commercial fields.
- Must applicants be South African citizens?
Yes. Applicants must be South African citizens by birth.
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Disclaimer
Edupstairs shares educational, bursary, internship, learnership, and employment opportunities for informational purposes only. We are not the recruiting organisation and do not influence the selection process. Applicants should verify all information on the official Vodacom bursary application platform before applying.
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