The Industrial Development Corporation (IDC) of South Africa has once again opened doors for ambitious and academically deserving students through its 2026 Bursary Programme. Known for being one of the most impactful bursary schemes in the country, the IDC Bursary Programme continues to empower youth from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue tertiary education in fields crucial for the nation’s industrial growth.
What is the IDC?
The IDC is a national development finance institution established to promote economic growth and industrial development. By investing in education through its bursary programme, the IDC contributes to building a pipeline of skilled professionals in sectors such as engineering, agriculture, and technology – all vital to South Africa’s economy.
FIELDS OF STUDY FUNDED:
The 2026 IDC Bursary Programme focuses on funding qualifications that align with the IDC’s mandate. These include:
Finance / Management or other Courses:
- Accounting (CA)
- Financial Management
- Internal Audit
- Cost and Management Accounting
- Investment Management
- Risk Management
- Transport or Logistics Management
- Supply Chain Management
- Entrepreneurship
- Finance Studies
- Economics
- Econometrics
- Business Management
- Financial Accounting
- Financial Engineering
Stem Courses:
- Industrial Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronic Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Analytical Chemistry
- Metallurgy Engineering
- Agricultural Studies
- Civil/Constructio n/Quantity Survey Engineering
- Geology
- Actuarial or Data Science
- Environmental Science
- Quantitative Risk Management
- Physics
- Bachelor of Sciences
- Biotechnology
- Environmental Science
- Agricultural Studies
- Mathematics or Statistics
- Computer Science / Information Science
- BCom Information Systems
- Information Technology
Law Courses:
- BCom Law (Commercial Law)
- Bachelor of Law (LLB)
- Diploma Law Studies
Post Graduate Studies:
- Post Grad in Law
- Mathematics or Statistics
- Actuarial Science
- Accounting CTA
Students pursuing degrees at public universities or universities of technology are encouraged to apply, especially if their chosen field supports South Africa’s industrial development priorities.
WHO CAN APPLY?
The IDC Bursary is aimed at:
- South African citizens under the age of 25
- Matriculants or full-time students who are accepted or registered at a South African public university
- Learners from financially disadvantaged backgrounds
- Students with strong academic records (typically a minimum average of 70%)
Importantly, the programme targets students who are passionate about contributing to the country’s economic transformation and industrial expansion.
WHAT THE BURSARY COVERS:
The IDC Bursary is fully comprehensive and includes:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation and meals
- Prescribed books and learning materials
- A monthly allowance
- Ongoing academic support and mentoring
This holistic approach ensures that students can focus entirely on their studies without the added pressure of financial strain.
Application Process for 2026
Applications must be completed online, and applicants should submit clear copies of all mandatory supporting documents and complete the interview questionnaire.
APPLY FOR THE INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION (IDC) BURSARY PROGRAMME FOR 2026 HERE
WHY APPLY FOR THE IDC BURSARY?
Apart from the financial support, IDC bursary recipients become part of a network of future leaders and are often considered for internship and employment opportunities within the IDC or its partnered industries after graduation. This means that the bursary doesn’t just end at graduation – it potentially opens doors to meaningful, long-term career pathways.
The IDC Bursary Programme for 2026 is more than a financial aid opportunity; it’s a stepping stone toward building a career that contributes to South Africa’s industrial advancement. If you are committed, driven, and passionate about making a tangible impact in the country’s economic development, the IDC bursary could be your launchpad to success.
CLOSING DATE: 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
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