The Ithuba Bursary Programme, provided by ITHUBA Holdings, is an exceptional opportunity for South African students from disadvantaged backgrounds to pursue higher education in critical fields.
Since 2015, ITHUBA Holdings has operated the National Lottery in South Africa with a mission to drive socio-economic development ethically and efficiently.
This bursary program reflects their dedication to fostering a brighter future for South African youth by addressing the financial barriers to tertiary education.
Ithuba Bursary Programme
The Ithuba Bursary Programme aims to support academically gifted students from previously disadvantaged communities.
By focusing on fields in high demand—Commerce and Information Technology—the programme seeks to equip the next generation with the skills needed to thrive in a competitive job market.
Fields of Study Covered
Bursaries will be awarded to students pursuing studies in the following fields:
Commerce:
- Accounting
- Management Accounting & Finance
- Marketing
Information Technology:
- Computer Science
- Computer Engineering
- Communication Networks
- Information Systems
- Software Development
What the Bursary Covers
The Ithuba Bursary offers financial support to ensure that recipients can focus on their studies without the burden of financial strain.
The bursary covers:
- Tuition fees
- Technology equipment
- Stationery
- Study materials
- Accommodation
- A monthly stipend
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Ithuba Bursary, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Currently in Matric or have completed Matric.
- Intend to study or currently studying in one of the specified fields in 2025.
- Be accepted to study at a recognised and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa.
- Have achieved at least 70% in each subject and a 70% overall average in their previous year of study.
- Commit to specialising in Commerce or Information Technology.
- Demonstrate dedication to maintaining strong academic performance.
- Be from a previously disadvantaged background.
- Have a household income not exceeding R350,000 per year.
- Align with the Foundation’s values of diligence, enthusiasm, dedication, and community contribution.
How to Apply for the Ithuba Bursary
Applications for the Ithuba Bursary must be submitted online via the ITHUBA application portal.
Follow these steps to apply:
- Create an Account: Begin by registering on the application portal.
- Login and Complete the Application: Provide all necessary details and ensure accuracy.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Upload clear, certified copies of the following documents:
- ID document
- Matric results or certificate
- Latest academic transcript, if applicable
- Provisional admission letter from a tertiary institution
- Proof of accommodation admission
- ID documents of parents or guardians
- Proof of household income (latest payslips, affidavits, or SASSA letters)
- Motivational letter detailing why you deserve the bursary (see tips for writing an effective motivational letter on www.bursariesmzansi.co.za)
Application Deadline
The closing date for 2025 applications was on 30 November 2024.
Newer dates are yet to be announced.
Contact Information
For inquiries regarding the Ithuba Bursary Programme, applicants can reach out to ITHUBA Holdings directly:
- Telephone: 011 346 6000
- Email: info@ithubalottery.co.za