Are you passionate about healthcare and serving communities in the Western Cape? The Western Cape Government Health and Wellness Bursary Programme for 2026 offers a transformative opportunity. Designed to support full-time students in health-related fields, this bursary paves the way for qualified young professionals to flourish in the public healthcare sector.
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
- South African citizens residing in the Western Cape Province.
- Individuals who have completed matric and are preparing to start or already accepted into full-time study in a recognized Health Science degree or diploma.
- Applicants must be motivated, hardworking, and eager to complete clinical hours where applicable
ELIGIBLE STUDY FIELDS
For the 2026 academic year, bursaries are available in a range of high-demand health disciplines. These include:
- B Tech Nursing
- BSC Radiography in Diagnostic
- BSC Radiography in Ultrasound
- BSC Radiography in Therapy
- Degree: B Nursing
- Degree Pharmacy
- Bachelor of Dental Surgery
- Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy
- Bachelor of Science in Physiotherapy
- Degree Medicine
- Degree Speech therapy
- Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy
- Higher Certificate R169 Nursing
- Diploma in Nursing R171(General Nurse)
- R 174 Nursing
- Higher Certificate in Emergency Care Assistant
- National Diploma in Emergency Medical Care
Applicants should check the official bursary portal for the final list when applications open, as the department may adjust fields based on current service delivery needs
WHAT’S COVERED—AND WHAT ISN’T
The bursary includes:
- Study fees (tuition, registration, exam costs)
- Support for a community service year, which counts toward your work-back obligation
However, note that accommodation expenses are not covered . This is an important consideration for students relocating for their studies.
WORK-BACK OBLIGATION: GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY
- Bursary recipients must commit to a work-back agreement:
- Complete required community service—this counts as the first year of your obligation
- Find employment within the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness to fulfill the remainder of the work-back period.
- Failure to meet the obligation will result in repayment of bursary funds
Internships do not count toward the work-back obligation
HOW TO APPLY FOR 2026:
- Register on the Western Cape Department of Health bursary portal (you’ll need your valid SA ID and a secure email) .
- Complete the online application form, selecting your intended field of study.
- Upload certified documents, including:
- South African ID
- Matric certificate
- Academic results/transcripts
- Proof of residence
- Parents’ or guardians’ income proof
- Motivational letter
- Disability documentation if applicable
APPLY FOR THE WESTERN CAPE GOVERNMENT HEALTH AND WELLNESS BURSARY PROGRAMME FOR 2026 HERE
WHY IT MATTERS:
- Supports learners from the community, especially those who are unemployed and from underserved backgrounds
- Aligns bursary funding with real staffing needs in the Western Cape healthcare system
- Strengthens the provincial health workforce by nurturing locally trained professionals who are committed to serving Western Cape communities.
Expert Tip: Write a strong motivational letter that highlights your connection to community, your passion for healthcare, and how you envision contributing to the Western Cape’s public health system.
CLOSING DATE: 30 SEPTEMBER 2025
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