The cost of higher education continues to rise in South Africa, leaving many talented students unable to afford a university degree. For orphaned and vulnerable young people, the barrier is even greater. The Tomorrow Trust exists to change that reality. Through its annual bursary programme, this non-profit organisation provides comprehensive funding and holistic support to students pursuing STEM qualifications at recognised public universities. Understanding the Tomorrow Trust bursary 2026 requirements is your first step toward accessing this life-changing opportunity.

This guide covers every detail of the Tomorrow Trust bursary 2026 requirements including eligible fields of study, who qualifies, what the bursary covers, how to apply, required documents, and the closing date. If you are a young South African with academic potential and financial need, read on.

About Tomorrow Trust

Tomorrow Trust is a South African non-profit organisation with over 20 years of experience supporting orphaned and vulnerable children through education. The Trust’s mission is to unlock South Africa’s best tomorrow through holistic education today — from playground to professional. Its programmes span the full educational journey: the Holiday and Saturday School Programme for Grade 1 to 12 learners, the Tertiary Programme providing university bursaries, the Shift Programme equipping students with workplace skills, the “I Am Little Wings” Programme addressing education and psychosocial gaps in orphaned youth, the Stepping Stones Career Programme for career guidance, and the Alumni Programme connecting former beneficiaries. This is not a typical bursary provider. Tomorrow Trust invests in each student’s academic, personal, and professional development from start to finish, creating a pipeline of conscious and holistically educated leaders.

Fields of Study That Qualify

The Tomorrow Trust bursary 2026 requirements specify that only STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) qualifications are eligible. The bursary supports undergraduate degree studies in the following fields:

• BSc Science qualifications — including biological sciences, physical sciences, mathematical sciences, and other BSc degree programmes at recognised public universities
• Chemical Engineering — BEng or BSc Engineering degrees specialising in chemical engineering processes and industrial chemistry
• Mechanical Engineering — BEng or BSc Engineering degrees focusing on mechanical systems, manufacturing, and design engineering
• Information Technology and Computer Sciences — BSc IT, BSc Computer Science, and related technology qualifications covering software development, data science, information systems, and networking

If your intended qualification does not fall within these STEM categories, you will not meet the Tomorrow Trust bursary 2026 requirements. Confirm your field aligns with science, engineering, IT, or computer sciences before applying.

Eligibility Requirements

Meeting the Tomorrow Trust bursary 2026 requirements depends on satisfying every criterion on this list. Failure to meet even one disqualifies your application:

• South African citizen — you must hold South African citizenship. International students and permanent residents from other countries are not eligible.
• Age range — you must be between 18 and 35 years old. For undergraduate applicants, the typical age range is 18 to 30. Postgraduate applicants (Honours level only, not masters) may apply up to age 35.
• Matric completed — you must have completed your National Senior Certificate or be in your final year of Matric.
• Full-time study — you must be studying or intend to study full-time toward an undergraduate degree in one of the listed STEM fields. Part-time and distance learning students do not qualify.
• Recognised public university — you must be studying or plan to study at a recognised public university in South Africa. Private institutions and TVET colleges are not eligible.
• First qualification — you must be pursuing your first undergraduate or first postgraduate qualification. If you already hold a degree at the same level, you do not qualify.
• Academic performance — if you are currently studying, you must have achieved a minimum overall average of 60% in your most recent examinations.
• First-generation university student — preference goes to students whose parents or guardians did not complete a university degree.
• Household income — your household income must be below R350,000 per year. You must demonstrate genuine financial need.

What Does the Bursary Cover?

One of the most attractive aspects of the Tomorrow Trust bursary 2026 requirements is that successful applicants receive comprehensive funding. The bursary covers tuition fees, prescribed textbooks, required equipment, accommodation, transport costs, food allowance, and living allowances. Full bursaries cover all of these expenses, enabling students to focus entirely on their studies. Partial bursaries or “top-ups” are also available for students who already receive some funding from other sources such as NSFAS — however, students with full NSFAS funding are not eligible for additional Tomorrow Trust support.

Support Beyond Financial Assistance

What sets Tomorrow Trust apart from most bursary providers is its holistic development model. Beyond covering study expenses, successful bursary recipients gain access to:

• Mentorship — each student receives guidance from experienced mentors who support academic progress and career planning
• Psychosocial support — in-house psychologists help students navigate stress, personal challenges, and mental health concerns that come from difficult backgrounds
• Monthly masterclasses — workshops focused on professional development, personal growth, leadership skills, and career readiness
• Work-readiness training — practical preparation for the job market including networking opportunities and volunteering experiences
• Alumni network — graduates join the Tomorrow Trust Alumni Programme, maintaining connections and accessing ongoing career support

This comprehensive approach means Tomorrow Trust bursary 2026 requirements are about more than financial eligibility — the Trust invests in your complete development as a future professional.

Documents Required

Your application must include the following certified supporting documents to satisfy the Tomorrow Trust bursary 2026 requirements on paper. All copies must be certified within the last three months, clear, and legible:

• Certified copy of your South African ID document
• Certified copy of your Matric certificate or latest Grade 12 results (if still in Matric)
• Latest academic transcript or results (if currently studying at tertiary level)
• Proof of university registration or acceptance letter
• Parents’ or guardians’ proof of household income — payslips, bank statements, sworn affidavit if unemployed, or SASSA grant letters
• Motivational letter explaining your career goals, financial circumstances, and why you are a strong candidate

Missing or uncertified documents can lead to disqualification. Prepare your paperwork well before the closing date.

How to Apply: Step-by-Step

Once you confirm you meet the Tomorrow Trust bursary 2026 requirements, follow this process to submit your application:

• Step 1: Visit the official Tomorrow Trust bursary application portal online. The application is submitted entirely through the website — no hand delivery or postal submissions.
• Step 2: Create an account on the portal. You need a valid email address and contact number to register.
• Step 3: Log in and complete the online application form with accurate personal, academic, and financial details. Every section must be filled in — incomplete forms are rejected.
• Step 4: Upload all required supporting documents via the documents section of the portal. Ensure files are clear, certified, and in the accepted format.
• Step 5: Review your entire application before submitting. Check for errors, missing information, and document quality.
• Step 6: Submit before the closing date. Late submissions are not accepted under any circumstances.

Closing Date

The Tomorrow Trust bursary 2026 requirements must be met before the application deadline of 18 February 2026. Applications submitted after this date are not accepted regardless of the reason. Do not wait until the final day — online portals experience heavy traffic near closing dates, and technical issues can prevent last-minute submissions. Apply at least one week early to give yourself time to resolve any problems. Set a reminder on your phone or calendar for mid-January to begin gathering your documents and completing the form.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying for a non-STEM qualification. The Tomorrow Trust bursary 2026 requirements only cover BSc Sciences, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and IT/Computer Sciences. Humanities, commerce, and law qualifications do not qualify.
• Applying as a student at a private institution or TVET college. Only recognised public universities in South Africa are eligible.
• Submitting uncertified or expired document copies. Every document must be certified within the last three months.
• Applying for a second qualification at the same level. This bursary is strictly for your first undergraduate or first postgraduate qualification.
• Leaving sections of the online form incomplete. Missing fields result in automatic rejection.
• Applying with full NSFAS funding already in place. Students with full NSFAS coverage are not eligible, though those with partial funding may apply.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can postgraduate students apply?

Yes, but with strict limits. The Tomorrow Trust bursary 2026 requirements allow postgraduate applicants at Honours level or postgraduate diploma level in STEM fields. Masters degree studies are explicitly excluded from the programme.

Which universities are eligible?

Any recognised public university in South Africa qualifies. This includes institutions like the University of the Witwatersrand, University of Johannesburg, Stellenbosch University, University of Cape Town, University of Pretoria, Rhodes University, and all other accredited public universities across the nine provinces. Private universities, private colleges, and TVET colleges are not eligible.

Can I apply if I already receive NSFAS funding?

If you receive partial NSFAS funding, you may apply for a Tomorrow Trust top-up bursary. However, if NSFAS fully covers your tuition, accommodation, and living costs, you are not eligible for additional Tomorrow Trust funding.

Is there a work-back obligation?

Tomorrow Trust does not require a formal work-back agreement or repayment. The bursary is a grant, not a loan. The organisation’s goal is to empower students to become proactive members of society. However, graduates are encouraged to join the Alumni Programme and contribute back to the Tomorrow Trust community through mentorship and volunteering.

How do I contact Tomorrow Trust?

For enquiries about the Tomorrow Trust bursary 2026 requirements or the application process, email info@tomorrow.org.za or info@tomorrowtrust.org.za. Do not contact Tomorrow Trust if the bursary closing date has already passed.

What if I am over 35 years old?

Unfortunately, the age limit is firm. Undergraduate applicants must be between 18 and 30 years old, and postgraduate applicants (Honours level only) must be between 18 and 35. If you exceed this range, you do not qualify regardless of academic performance or financial need.

Final Thoughts

The Tomorrow Trust Bursary Programme is one of South Africa’s most comprehensive funding opportunities for STEM students from disadvantaged backgrounds. It goes far beyond paying tuition — it provides mentorship, psychosocial support, career workshops, and a lifelong alumni network that supports your growth well after graduation. Tomorrow Trust bursary 2026 requirements come down to being a South African citizen aged 18 to 35, studying a STEM qualification full-time at a recognised public university, demonstrating financial need, and maintaining at least a 60% academic average. If you meet these criteria, prepare your certified documents, complete the online application carefully, and submit before 18 February 2026. This bursary can transform your academic journey and set you on a path toward a meaningful career in science, engineering, or technology.