The programme is aimed at supporting South African students pursuing qualifications in areas such as Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering and Information Technology. Applications are open from 1 June until 30 September, giving eligible students an opportunity to secure funding towards their studies in 2027.
About the Cisco Bursary Programme
The Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa established its bursary programme to help expand access to IT education while contributing towards the development of technology skills among young South Africans.
The bursary considers both academic performance and financial need when assessing applicants.
It also provides an opportunity for students who fall within South Africa's so-called "missing middle" — households that may earn too much to qualify for certain forms of financial assistance but still struggle with the cost of tertiary education.
Who Can Apply for the 2027 Cisco Bursary?
Applicants should carefully check the eligibility requirements before submitting an application.
To qualify, you must:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Have a combined family income between R350,000 and R600,000 per year for the "missing middle" category.
- Be entering your first, second, third or fourth year of study in 2027.
- Be studying Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering or Information Technology.
- Be accepted or registered at a public or private institution registered with the Department of Education.
- Demonstrate good academic performance as well as financial need.
Fourth-year applicants may include students completing BTech programmes at NQF Level 7 or Honours programmes at NQF Level 8.
Preference will be given to equity students.
Which Fields of Study Are Covered?
The bursary focuses specifically on technology-related qualifications. Eligible fields include:
Computer Science
Computer Engineering
Software Engineering
Information Technology
Students studying qualifications outside these areas should confirm their eligibility before applying.
Cisco Bursary 2027 Closing Date
The application season runs from:
Opening date: 1 June
Closing date: 30 September
Applicants should aim to submit their applications well before the closing date rather than waiting until the final day.
How to Apply
Applications for the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary are managed through StudyTrust.
Before starting your application, read the application instructions and make sure you have the required information and supporting documents ready.
Read the StudyTrust Bursary Application Instructions
Once you have reviewed the requirements, you can proceed with the online application:
Apply for the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary
Before You Submit Your Application
Take time to check that the information you provide is complete and accurate. Since the programme considers both academic results and financial need, applicants should ensure that all required supporting information is available before submitting.
Students should also carefully follow the instructions provided on the StudyTrust application platform.
Opportunity at a Glance
Bursary: Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary Programme
Academic year: 2027
Eligible students: First to fourth-year students
Fields: Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering and Information Technology
Citizenship: South African citizens
Missing-middle household income: R350,000 – R600,000 per year
Applications: 1 June – 30 September
Application platform: StudyTrust
For students planning to build careers in South Africa's technology sector, this bursary is worth considering. Check the eligibility requirements carefully and submit your application before 30 September.