Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust (CRET) Bursary Programme 2024a
The Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust (CRET) Bursary Programme is a study funding programme for students pursuing their studies at Universities across South Africa.
What makes the CRET bursary different from other bursaries is that they aim to fund students who are usually overlooked by other bursary programmes, which generally only fund top achievers. The CRET bursary aims to fund students who are excluded or forgotten by other funders.
This particular bursary began when president Cyril Ramaphosa began supporting a few deserving students so that they could attend university. This began in 1996 and now 27 years later, the fund is still going.
When do applications close for the CRET Bursary?
Students interested in apply for funding, must do so by no later than 10 December 2023. Any applications received after this date will be disqualified.
What fields of study does the CRET Bursary cover?
Undergraduate students in scarce skill fields should apply for this funding opportunity, particularly if they are studying within the fields of Engineering (any discipline), Education (Teaching), Commerce and Finance, Technology, Sciences (except for MBChB), as well as Artisan Trades (boiler making, welding, plumbing, OHS, renewable energy, waste management, green technology, entrepreneurship, etc).
Students pursuing postgraduate studies or studies in any field not mentioned above are advised to not apply, as they unfortunately do not qualify.
Who can apply for the CRET Bursary?
Applicants who meet these criteria are encouraged to apply. These criteria are not negotiable – therefore candidates who do not meet all of the criteria will not be considered for funding.
- Applicants who are South African citizens
- Applicants who are between 16 years old and 27 years old
- Applicants who can prove their financial need and have a household income of less than R650 000 per year (candidates will be required to provide proof of their household income)
- Applicants who are either currently completing Matric/ Grade 12 this year (2023) or applicants who are already studying in any of the fields as mentioned above
- Applicants who are enrolled for studies at any recognized institution in South Africa (including a University, TVET College, or another recognized learning institution)
What fees does the CRET Bursary cover?
The CRET Bursary aims to provide students with full funding, thus the following expenses will be covered: tuition fees, textbooks and other essential study materials and laptops. The bursary also covers the cost of accommodation, meals, a monthly living allowance and transport, where required.
Aside from financial support, bursary recipients can also expect to receive support in the following ways: psychosocial, and secondary skills, amongst many other services.
What is the selection process for the CRET Bursary?
Before bursary recipients are selected, they will undergo a stringent selection process, which will include a psychometric evaluation and a formal interview.
A psychometric evaluation is a scientific test that helps bursary providers determine whether candidates are suitable for the programme.
How can I apply for the CRET Bursary?
Applicants are accepted via the CRET Bursary Application 2024 portal.
After completing the full online application, candidate must upload copies of their documents as listed below:
- Certified copy of your South African ID Document or ID Card
- Certified copy of your most recent academic results (Grade 12 results or university results)
- Proof of your enrolment at an institution for 2024
- A strong motivational letter in support of your application and declaration as to why you should be selected for the bursary
- Proof that you have completed a psychometric test in your chosen field of study
- Certified copy of your parents or guardian’s household income (if they are employed, provide recent payslips/ if they are unemployed, provide an affidavit stating this/ if they receive a social grant, proof of this)
- Copy of your proof of residence
How can I contact CRET?
If you have a question regarding the bursary programme, you may get hold of the Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust (CRET) via telephone or email as stated below. Please do not contact CRET to enquire on the status of your application
Telephone: 011 592 6560
Email: info@cyrilramaphosa.org