What does the Vodacom bursary cover?

Full tuition, accommodation, books, meals, plus a laptop and a cellphone with airtime and data. It is one of the most generous ICT-focused bursaries in South Africa.

When does the Vodacom Bursary close?

Applications for the 2027 academic year are expected to open around March 2026 and close on 30 June 2026. Vodacom may close earlier if quotas fill.

Do I have to study at a specific university?

No. Any recognised South African university or university of technology is eligible, provided you are studying a qualifying STEM degree.

Is there a work-back commitment?

Bursars are expected to complete vacation work programmes with Vodacom each year. There is no compulsory year-for-year work-back, but successful graduates are strongly considered for permanent roles.

Computer Science & IT

Vodacom Bursary Programme

Vodacom Group

The Vodacom Bursary is a merit-based programme for South African students studying Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) - particularly disciplines aligned to the ICT industry. It funds full-time first, second and third year students at recognised South African universities.

Amount: Full-cost bursary (tuition, residence, books, meals, laptop, phone)
Deadline: To be announced
Duration: Full degree duration (subject to performance)
Renewable: Yes

2027 applications not yet open

Visit official site

Eligible Fields of Study

Vodacom Group supports students in the following disciplines

Computer Science

Information Technology

Software Engineering

Electrical Engineering

Electronic Engineering

Telecommunications Engineering

Data Science

Mathematics

Mathematical Statistics

Eligibility Requirements

✓ South African citizen
✓ Studying or intending to study full-time at a recognised South African university or university of technology
✓ Minimum 70% for Mathematics and Physical Science in Matric
✓ Matric exemption (Bachelor's pass)
✓ Currently in Grade 12 or in 1st, 2nd or 3rd year of an eligible STEM degree
✓ Demonstrate financial need
✓ Current tertiary students must have at least a 65% overall average

What's Included

✓ Full tuition and registration fees
✓ Accommodation (residence)
✓ Textbook allowance
✓ Meal allowance
✓ Laptop
✓ Cellphone with airtime and data
✓ Structured vacation work programme
✓ Mentorship from Vodacom professionals

Work Commitment

Vodacom bursars participate in vacation work each year and are considered for graduate roles at Vodacom on completion, but there is no rigid year-for-year work-back contract.

How to Apply

Steps to complete your Vodacom Group bursary application

1
Wait for the 2027 application window to open (typically March 2026)
2
Register on the Vodacom external bursary portal
3
Complete the online application form before 30 June 2026
4
Upload certified copies of supporting documents
5
Complete online assessments if invited
6
Attend interviews if shortlisted

Required Documents

📄 Certified ID copy
📄 Certified latest academic results (Grade 11 / matric / university transcript)
📄 Proof of university acceptance or registration
📄 Proof of household income
📄 Certified parents'/guardians' IDs
📄 CV

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Vodacom bursary cover?: Full tuition, accommodation, books, meals, plus a laptop and a cellphone with airtime and data. It is one of the most generous ICT-focused bursaries in South Africa.
When does the Vodacom Bursary close?: Applications for the 2027 academic year are expected to open around March 2026 and close on 30 June 2026. Vodacom may close earlier if quotas fill.
Do I have to study at a specific university?: No. Any recognised South African university or university of technology is eligible, provided you are studying a qualifying STEM degree.
Is there a work-back commitment?: Bursars are expected to complete vacation work programmes with Vodacom each year. There is no compulsory year-for-year work-back, but successful graduates are strongly considered for permanent roles.

When do 2027 applications open?

Vodacom Group has not yet announced dates for the 2027 intake.

The last recorded window closed on 31 August 2026. Treat that as a guide to timing only — confirm the 2027 dates with Vodacom Group before you rely on them.

Check Vodacom Group's official site

Information verified 2026-06-22. Always confirm details on the funder's official website before applying.

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