Thebe Foundation
Thebe Foundation Dr EJ Mabuza Scholarship
Closes
22 September 2026
Value
Tuition, housing, books, meals, transport
Level
Diploma, Degree, Honours, Masters
For
Unemployed Black SA citizens under 35
Sector
Multi-disciplinary
Type
Scholarship
About this bursary
The Dr EJ Mabuza Scholarship provides financial backing for Black South African students pursuing tertiary qualifications across multiple disciplines. Managed by Excel@Uni on behalf of the Thebe Foundation, the programme assists students enrolled in diplomas, degrees, honours, and master's qualifications at public institutions.
Created in 2016, the scholarship pays tribute to Dr Enos Mabuza and his contribution to founding the Thebe Investment Corporation. The initiative focuses on financially needy youth, aiming to help them gain practical skills and enter the professional workforce.
Funding pays for core study expenses but excludes prior debt. Applicants must hold a 60% academic average and demonstrate family income under R600 000 per year.
Courses of study covered
What the bursary covers
Who can apply
You qualify if
- Applicants must be South African citizens classified under Black designated groups, including African, Coloured, Indian, or Asian individuals.
- Candidates must be under 35 years of age, unemployed, and possess a minimum academic average of 60%.
- Qualification applies to full-time study at accredited public universities, TVET colleges, or community colleges.
- Candidates can be currently in Matric or already finished secondary school.
- Total annual household income must remain below R600 000.
- Students must not carry existing historical debt or hold other active funding sources like NSFAS.
You do not qualify if
- PhD students or candidates studying at private tertiary institutions do not qualify.
- Applicants with historical study debt or those repeating a qualification level are ineligible.
- Students receiving NSFAS or alternative bursaries will not be funded.
Documents you need to submit
- Certified copy of identity document
- Grade 9, 11, and Matric term 2 reports if currently in Matric
- TVET academic records since high school if applicable
- Certified copy of Matric certificate if completed
- Most recent official academic transcripts and 2026 proof of registration if currently studying
- Proof of acceptance or provisional acceptance for 2027
- Certified identity documents or death certificates of parents or guardians
- Proof of household income including payslips, affidavits, or SASSA grant documentation
- One-page motivational letter explaining study field choices and career objectives
- Completed Department of Labour EEA1 form and medical letter if living with a disability
- Signed parent or guardian consent form if under 18 years old
Documents must be certified within the last three months and combined into single files per category where applicable.
How to apply
- 1Access the online application portal provided by Excel@Uni.
- 2Gather digital copies of all mandatory identity, academic, and financial documents.
- 3Complete the online questionnaire with your personal details and background.
- 4Upload the required supporting documentation into the portal.
- 5Submit your application prior to the deadline on 22 September 2026 at 12:00 PM.
Indicate www.zabursaries.co.za if asked where you heard about the scholarship.