As education costs continue to rise, students from disadvantaged communities in South Africa face increasing challenges in accessing higher education. Bursaries like the SIOC Community Development Trust (SIOC-CDT) bursary provide vital financial support, allowing students from low-income households to complete their studies and improve their lives.

    What is the SIOC Bursary?

    The Sishen Iron Ore Company (SIOC), a leading iron ore supplier in the Anglo American group, offers bursaries through the SIOC Community Development Trust (SIOC-CDT). The trust was established to uplift communities surrounding SIOC mining operations by supporting education. These bursaries primarily benefit students from Gamagara, Ga-Segonyana, Joe Morolong, Tsantsabane, and Thabazimbi, covering tuition, accommodation, study materials, and a monthly living stipend.

    Fields of Study Covered by the SIOC-CDT Bursary

    The SIOC bursary is unique because it doesn’t limit applicants to mining-related fields. Instead, it supports a variety of fields, empowering young people to pursue careers that lead to financial security. Undergraduate and postgraduate students studying in public higher education institutions are eligible to apply, with preference given to undergraduate candidates.

    • Agriculture
      • Veterinary Science
      • Crops and Livestock Production
      • Environmental Studies
      • Agricultural Economics
      • Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
      • Food Technology
    • Health and Clinical Sciences
      • MBChB (Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery)
      • Pharmacy
      • Dentistry
      • Advanced EMS (Emergency Medical Services)
      • Nursing
      • Chemical and Biological Medical Lab Sciences
      • Biochemistry
    • Education
      • BEd. FET (Further Education and Training) Mathematics
      • BEd. FET Physical Science
      • BEd. Natural Sciences
      • Economic and Management Science
      • BEd. Foundation Phase
      • BEd. Language
      • BEd. Special Needs
    • Law
      • Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
    • Tourism
      • Hospitality Management
      • Arts and Culture Heritage
      • Ecotourism Management
    • Business Management and Economics
      • Accounting
      • Economics
      • Auditing and Tax
      • Actuarial Science
      • Statistics
      • Mathematics
      • Project Management
    • Engineering and Sciences
      • Quantity Surveying
      • Civil Engineering
      • Architecture
      • Geology
      • Electrical Engineering
      • Town Planning
      • Environmental Health
    • Information Technology
      • Computer Sciences
      • Software Development
      • Data Science/Analytics
      • Web Design and Development

    Expenses Covered by the SIOC-CDT Bursary

    The SIOC bursary offers comprehensive financial support, ensuring selected students don’t have to worry about educational expenses. This includes:

    • Tuition and Registration Fees: Full coverage of fees associated with the academic program.
    • Accommodation: Lodging costs for students living away from home.
    • Study Materials and Laptop: All prescribed books and a laptop for academic use.
    • Monthly Stipend: A monthly allowance for personal and living expenses.
    • Assistive Devices: Special devices for students with disabilities.

    Related: Cape Gate Isaac Joffe Fellowship Bursary 2025

    Eligibility Requirements

    Given its popularity, the SIOC bursary has strict eligibility requirements to ensure that the most deserving students benefit. Here’s what applicants need to qualify:

    1. South African Residency: Applicants must be South African citizens from SIOC-CDT beneficiary communities.
    2. Age Requirement: Applicants should be under 35 years old by the application deadline.
    3. Education Admission: Applicants should have proof of acceptance or provisional acceptance into a public higher education institution for the 2025 academic year.
    4. Financial Need: Candidates must demonstrate financial need, with an annual household income of less than R600,000.

    Required Documents

    Applying for the SIOC bursary requires specific documents to verify eligibility and financial need. Be sure to prepare certified copies of these documents:

    • South African ID
    • Latest Academic Results: Grade 12 June results, Grade 12 Prelim results, or first-semester university results.
    • National Senior Certificate (NSC): Final result, if completed before 2024.
    • Acceptance Letter: Proof of admission to a recognized institution.
    • Proof of Residence: A document dated within the last three months.
    • Income Verification: Payslips, declarations of unemployment, affidavits, or a SASSA Grant certificate.
    • Disability Certificate (if applicable): Medical certification of any disabilities.
    • Bank Statements: Statements from the last three months.

    Recommended for you: How to Apply for Bursaries for the 2025 Academic Year

    How to Apply for the SIOC-CDT Bursary

    To apply, students must complete the application and submit all documents by the deadline. Applications can be submitted either online or offline.

    The online application form is available on the SIOC-CDT website. Applicants can follow the instructions and upload all documents electronically.

    For those who prefer a paper application, the completed form can be hand-delivered or posted to one of the following addresses:

    • SIOC-CDT Office Park
      Corner Hendrick Van Eck and Ian Flemming Road, Kathu, 8446
    • Thabazimbi Hub
      11 Jourdan Street, Mollies Building, Thabazimbi, 0380

    Important Note: It’s essential to ensure the application arrives at the SIOC office before the closing date. Late applications will not be considered.

    The deadline to apply for the SIOC bursary is noon on 30 November 2024. Applications received after this date, or incomplete applications, will not be considered. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews before the final selection is made.

    For any questions or assistance with the application process, students can reach out to the SIOC-CDT directly. The trust has provided a tutorial video to guide students through the online application, accessible on their application form webpage.

    Read more: Understanding the Differences: Bursaries vs Scholarships in 2025

    The SIOC Community Development Trust bursary is an incredible opportunity for young South Africans from SIOC-CDT communities to advance their education and secure a brighter future. By covering educational expenses, this bursary removes financial barriers, allowing students to focus on their studies and future careers.

    If you meet the eligibility requirements and are ready to start your journey toward a rewarding career, complete your SIOC bursary application and gather all required documents in advance. The path to a prosperous future is just a few steps away with the support of the SIOC Community Development Trust bursary.

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