Medical & Health Sciences Discovery Foundation

Discovery Foundation Bursary Programme

Join South Africa's leading healthcare innovator. Build your medical career with a focus on preventive care, wellness innovation, and community health improvement.

Amount:
R100,000 - R180,000 per year
Deadline:
31 August 2026
Duration:
Full degree duration
Renewable:
Yes

Eligible Fields of Study

Discovery Foundation supports students in the following disciplines

Medicine (MBChB)
Nursing Science
Physiotherapy
Occupational Therapy
Speech-Language Pathology
Biomedical Engineering
Health Sciences
Clinical Psychology
Public Health
Pharmacy
Optometry
Dietetics

Eligibility Requirements

  • South African citizen
  • Academic excellence (70%+ average)
  • Studying healthcare or medical field
  • Financial need demonstration
  • Commitment to improving healthcare
  • Leadership potential in healthcare
  • Community service orientation
  • Strong ethical values

What's Included

  • Full tuition fees coverage
  • Registration and admin fees
  • Monthly stipend R8,000 - R12,000
  • Textbooks and study materials
  • Medical equipment allowance
  • Clinical placement support
  • Professional mentorship program
  • Healthcare leadership development
  • Research opportunities
  • Graduate employment opportunities
  • Continuing education support
  • Medical conference attendance

Work Commitment

Bursary recipients are encouraged to work in underserved communities or with Discovery Health for a period equivalent to their bursary duration

How to Apply

Steps to complete your Discovery Foundation bursary application

  1. 1

    Complete online application form

  2. 2

    Submit academic transcripts

  3. 3

    Provide certified documents

  4. 4

    Submit healthcare motivation essay

  5. 5

    Provide financial documentation

  6. 6

    Complete health assessment

  7. 7

    Attend panel interview

  8. 8

    Final selection and award

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes the Discovery Foundation bursary unique in healthcare?
Discovery Foundation focuses on innovative healthcare solutions and prevention. Recipients gain exposure to cutting-edge medical technology, health data analytics, and wellness programmes that are transforming healthcare delivery.
Do I need to work for Discovery Health after graduation?
While not mandatory, graduates are encouraged to work in underserved communities or with Discovery Health. Priority is given to addressing healthcare inequality and improving access to quality healthcare.
What are the clinical placement opportunities?
Discovery Foundation provides support for clinical placements at leading healthcare facilities and may offer opportunities at Discovery Health centres and partner hospitals.
Is research experience provided?
Yes, bursary recipients may participate in health research projects focusing on preventive care, health analytics, and innovative treatment methodologies.
Can I apply for postgraduate studies?
The foundation also supports postgraduate studies in healthcare fields, particularly those aligned with improving healthcare outcomes and innovation.

Ready to apply?

Applications close on 31 August 2026

Apply on Discovery Foundation's official site

Need help? Contact Discovery Foundation:

Email: [email protected]

Phone: 011 529 2888

Information verified 2026-05-14. Always confirm details on the funder's official website before applying.