If you’re passionate about sports and dreaming of excelling both on the field and in your studies, the TuksSport Performance Support Bursary could be your perfect ticket to success. Offered by the prestigious University of Pretoria (UP) and its renowned sport division, TuksSport, this bursary supports talented athletes across South Africa to develop their sporting careers while pursuing tertiary education.
About the Bursary Provider — University of Pretoria & TuksSport
The University of Pretoria is one of South Africa’s largest and most respected institutions, famed for combining academic excellence with top-tier sports programmes. The university’s sports department, known as TuksSport, is a global leader, committed to nurturing talent and building sustainable sporting success.
TuksSport supports athletes and volunteers with a wide range of high-performance services, including:
- Medical and injury support
- Scientific and fitness testing
- Tactical and technical expertise
- Sports psychology assistance
By providing these comprehensive services, TuksSport ensures athletes receive all-around support to excel both in their sport and in their studies.
What is the TuksSport Performance Support Bursary Programme?
The TuksSport Bursary Programme offers selected students a chance to train and compete under expert guidance while pursuing academic qualifications at UP. This bursary helps develop sporting talent across many disciplines and ensures students become part of an internationally recognised academy known for sporting excellence.
Sports Covered by the TuksSport Bursary:
- Archery
- Athletics
- Badminton
- Basketball
- Canoe
- Chess
- Cricket
- Cycling
- Fencing
- Football
- Golf
- Gymnastics
- Hockey
- Judo
- Karate
- Netball
- Rowing
- Rugby
- Squash
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Trampoline
- Triathlon
- Volleyball
- Wrestling
The bursary is awarded for one sport code only, and students must re-apply each year. Renewal depends on academic results, sporting performance, training attendance, and commitment.
Who is Eligible for the TuksSport Bursary?
To qualify, you must:
- Be a full-time registered student at the University of Pretoria for 2026.
- Excel in one of the supported sporting disciplines.
- Show potential based on:
- Your ranking in South African junior or senior sport.
- Your position on international sport rankings.
- Your ability to qualify for international competitions.
- Your expected performance at the South African Student Championships (USSA) and Varsity Sport competitions.
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How to Apply for the Performance Support Bursary
Step 1: Complete the Online Application
Go to the TuksSport bursary application page and select your sport. Fill out the 2026 application form.
Step 2: Gather and Submit Supporting Documents
Your application must include:
- A full-length action photo (A5 size, JPEG).
- Grade 11 results (if you are entering your first year in 2026).
- Sports Curriculum Vitae detailing:
- Sporting performance history.
- Current training plans.
- Strengths, weaknesses, and focus areas.
- Additional achievements such as leadership or cultural activities.
- The Sports Performance Support application form emailed to you after online submission (scanned or printed).
Step 3: Email Your Application
Send your completed application and all documents to:
tukssportbursary@up.ac.za
Use the subject line: “TuksSport Bursary Application 2026.”
Important Dates and Contacts
- Application Deadline: 31 July 2025
(Late submissions will not be considered.) - Contact TuksSport for Queries:
Phone: 012 420 6060
Or contact your specific sport code manager.
Final Tips for a Successful Application
- Make sure you meet all eligibility criteria before applying.
- Submit all required documents — incomplete applications risk disqualification.
- Highlight your dedication both academically and athletically.
- Keep track of your application status and follow up if you haven’t heard back after 3 weeks.
- Stay committed to training and perform well academically to renew your bursary annually.
The TuksSport Performance Support Bursary is a fantastic opportunity for young South African athletes who want to pursue their sporting ambitions alongside academic success at the University of Pretoria. With world-class support, expert coaching, and access to top facilities, this bursary can launch your sporting career and education to new heights.
