HCI Foundation Bursary Program South Africa

Are you looking to continue your studies in 2025 or begin your Honours or Postgraduate Diploma at a top South African university? The HCI Foundation Bursary Program might be just what you need. Here’s everything you need to know about applying, eligibility, and what the bursary covers.

Application Timeline for 2025

Mark your calendars! The application period for the HCI Foundation Bursary opens on 1 August 2024, and closes on 30 September 2024. Be sure to submit your application within this window.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the HCI Foundation Bursary, you must meet the following criteria:

  • Citizenship: Open to South African citizens, refugees, and asylum seekers.
  • Current Students: Existing HCI Foundation bursary recipients who are continuing their undergraduate studies at a public university or university of technology in South Africa in 2025.
  • New Applicants: Students starting their Honours or Postgraduate Diploma at one of the supported institutions in 2025.
  • Income Threshold: Family’s gross monthly income should not exceed R38,000.
  • Age Limit: Must be 35 years old or younger by September 30, 2024.

Note: The bursary does not cover part-time studies, distance learning, or programs at TVET colleges.

Supported Institutions

The bursary is available to students attending the following universities:

  • University of Cape Town
  • University of the Western Cape
  • University of Stellenbosch
  • University of KwaZulu-Natal
  • University of Pretoria
  • University of Witwatersrand
  • University of Johannesburg
  • Rhodes University
  • Nelson Mandela University
  • University of the Free State
  • North-West University

Additional Financial Aid Considerations

Students with a National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) loan or other partial bursaries may still qualify for the HCI Foundation Bursary. However, if a student receives a full-cost bursary or a substantial partial bursary from another source, the HCI bursary will be withdrawn and reallocated to another deserving student. It is important to inform the Foundation of any other financial aid received by emailing bp@hcifoundation.co.za.

Exclusions and Further Opportunities

The HCI Foundation does not fund Master’s or PhD studies, focusing instead on Honours and Postgraduate Diploma levels.

Additionally, the Foundation offers a Graduate Development Program to help bridge the gap between academic study and employment. While this program does not guarantee job placement, it provides valuable opportunities for internships and employment. Graduates are encouraged to stay in touch with the Foundation and keep them updated on their professional progress.

How to Apply

All applications must be completed online on the HCI Foundation Bursary website. Unfortunately, there are no hardcopy forms available, and the online form cannot be downloaded. It is recommended to start the application early and ensure all necessary documents are ready. You can save your progress and return to the application at any time during the process.

Required Documents for Application

When applying, make sure to have the following:

  1. A valid email address and a working cell phone number.
  2. A student number if you’re continuing studies beyond your first year (applicable for returning students).
  3. Proof of parents’ or guardians’ monthly income (bank statements are not accepted).
  4. Additional documents such as a death certificate if a parent is deceased or affidavits for single parent status or unemployment.

Bursary Coverage

The HCI Foundation Bursary is a partial bursary, covering tuition fees up to R40,000 per year. It does not provide allowances for living expenses, books, accommodation, meals, or transportation, except in special circumstances.

Important: The bursary does not cover the cost of repeating any year or module of study.

Payment Schedule

Bursary payments are typically made around July each year and are paid directly into the student’s account at their respective institution. Students do not receive payments directly.

Conditions for Retaining the Bursary

The bursary is non-repayable, except under specific conditions:

  • If a student fails due to lack of commitment without notifying the Foundation in advance.
  • If a student refuses to participate in required bursary program activities during or after their studies.
  • If a student provides false or misleading information to receive the bursary.

Recipients are encouraged to give back by engaging in community service, tutoring, mentoring, and volunteering. Participation in workshops and surveys during and after their studies is also expected.

Get in touch

For more details and to stay connected, graduates can reach out to alumni@hcifoundation.co.za.

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