For many South African students, bursaries offer a golden opportunity to pursue higher education without the heavy financial burden. Whether you’re still in Matric or have already completed high school, bursaries can help fund your dreams—especially if you meet the key criteria of strong academic performance and financial need.
This article focuses specifically on bursaries Closing in May 2025. We’ve included all the latest updates, how to apply, what each bursary covers, and eligibility details.
This list is ideal for students and parents planning ahead and wanting to secure financial support for the upcoming academic year.
What You Need to Know Before Applying
Before diving into the list of bursaries Closing in May, it’s important to understand a few common requirements:
- Bursaries are generally available to South African citizens.
- You must be currently in Matric or have completed Matric.
- A strong academic record is usually essential.
- You’ll need to prove financial need in most cases.
- Some bursaries are field-specific, such as engineering, accounting, or pharmacy.
- Deadlines are strict—so never wait until the last minute.
Now, let’s look at the confirmed bursaries Closing in May 2025.
List of South African Bursaries Closing in May 2025
1. Pharmaceutical Society of South Africa (PSSA) Bursary
- Closing Date: 4 May 2025
- Field: Pharmacy (Postgraduate)
- Eligibility: South African citizens enrolled in postgraduate pharmacy studies
- Coverage: Tuition and related academic expenses
- Application Process: Download the form on pssa.org.za
This is one of the few Bursaries Closing in May that specifically targets pharmacy students. If you’re passionate about medicine and community health, apply early.
2. ISACA South Africa Chapter Scholarship
- Closing Date: 6 May 2025
- Field: Computer Science, Information Systems, Cybersecurity
- Eligibility: Undergraduate or postgraduate students in IT-related fields
- Coverage: US$1,000 scholarship plus ISACA Career Bundle
- Application Process: Apply online at isaca.secure-platform.com
For tech-savvy students, this is one of the most valuable bursaries Closing in May because of the additional career development perks.
3. Bateleur Capital Bursary
- Closing Date: 7 May 2025
- Field: Commerce and Finance
- Eligibility: Students from disadvantaged backgrounds studying financial disciplines
- Coverage: Full or partial tuition
- Application Process: Visit nasi-ispani.co.za
This is ideal for students aiming for a career in investment or financial analysis.
4. Sasol Bursary
- Closing Date: 18 May 2025
- Field: Engineering, Science, and Technology
- Eligibility: Full-time undergraduate students
- Coverage: Full tuition, accommodation, allowances, laptop, and vacation work
- Application Process: Apply via sasolbursaries.com
Sasol offers one of the most generous Bursaries Closing in May—perfect for those interested in the energy and chemical industries.
5. Grand Gaming Bursary
- Closing Date: 30 May 2025
- Field: General
- Eligibility: Disadvantaged students from Mpumalanga
- Coverage: Tuition and academic support
- Application Process: Check nasi-ispani.co.za
This bursary focuses on uplifting underprivileged students in rural communities.
6. Boston City Campus Bursary
- Closing Date: 31 May 2025
- Field: Various
- Eligibility: Boston City Campus students
- Coverage: Tuition discounts
- Application Process: Apply directly on boston.ac.za
If you’re already studying at Boston, don’t miss this chance—one of the more accessible Bursaries Closing in May.
7. Mezzanine Bursary
- Closing Date: 31 May 2025
- Field: Computer Science (Western Cape)
- Eligibility: South African citizens residing in the Western Cape
- Coverage: Tuition, accommodation, job shadowing, mentorship
- Application Process: Apply via mezzanineware.com
Tech and innovation meet opportunity in this fantastic bursary offer.
Bursaries with No Confirmed Closing Dates
While the above list covers all the bursaries Closing in May, here’s a list of opportunities that may still be open but don’t have confirmed deadlines:
- Golden Arrow Bus Services (GABS) Bursary
- Heribert Nasch Bursary
- Hulamin Bursary
- JG Afrika Bursary
- Kearney Bursary
- Moshal Scholarship Program
- Milkor Bursary
- Mineral Processing Guru (MPG) Bursary
- PG Group Bursary
- Shell Bursary
- WBHO Bursary
- Worley Bursary
- WSP Bursary
Some of these fund specific fields like construction, engineering, and transport. Be sure to double-check the individual websites for updates.
Bursaries Accepting Applications Anytime
In addition to bursaries Closing in May, these bursaries accept applications throughout the year:
- 18twenty8 Bursary
- Advance Africa Scholarship
- BBD Bursary
- Career Wise Bursaries
- MINDS Scholarship
- TTI Bursary
These are great fallback options if you miss the May deadlines or are planning for later in the year.
Tips for Applying Successfully
To make the most of these bursaries Closing in May, follow these important steps:
- Start early and gather all documents in advance.
- Write a strong motivation letter to show your goals and values.
- Obtain quality reference letters from educators or community leaders.
- Include certified copies of ID, Matric results, and income statements.
- Carefully check and proofread all documents.
- Submit the complete application before the deadline.
Related: Bursary Cover Letter Format
As we approach the halfway mark of 2025, bursaries Closing in May present a crucial opportunity for many South African students to secure funding for their education. Whether you are pursuing studies in pharmacy, engineering, commerce, or information technology, there are multiple bursaries still open for application—each designed to support talented and hardworking individuals from various backgrounds.
Applying for a bursary is more than just filling out forms. It’s about telling your story, proving your commitment, and showing why you deserve financial support. Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria, prepare your documentation carefully, and most importantly, apply before the deadline.
The world is changing fast, and education remains one of the most powerful tools to improve your life and uplift your community. Don’t let financial challenges stop you—take advantage of these bursaries Closing in May and invest in your future today.
Stay tuned for more bursary updates, and remember: the earlier you apply, the better your chances.