AWS Skills Development Bursary 2027 Applications Officially Open
South African students pursuing careers in technology, engineering, commerce, education, and healthcare can now apply for the AWS Skills Development Bursary 2027, a comprehensive funding programme designed to support future professionals in high-demand industries.
Sponsored by Amazon Web Services (AWS) and administered by StudyTrust, the bursary provides full financial support to academically deserving students who demonstrate financial need. The programme aims to strengthen South Africa’s digital economy by investing in students studying qualifications that are critical to the country’s future workforce.
Successful applicants may receive funding for tuition, accommodation, study materials, living expenses, and even a personal computer.
Applications remain open until 30 September 2026.
Bursary Overview
| Programme Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Bursary Programme | AWS Skills Development Bursary |
| Sponsor | Amazon Web Services (AWS) |
| Administrator | StudyTrust |
| Academic Year | 2027 |
| Study Level | Undergraduate & Postgraduate |
| Funding Type | Full Cost Bursary |
| Application Period | 1 June – 30 September 2026 |
| Closing Date | 30 September 2026 |
About the AWS Skills Development Bursary
The AWS Skills Development Bursary was established to increase access to higher education in fields that support South Africa’s rapidly growing technology sector.
By removing financial barriers, AWS helps talented students complete qualifications that contribute to innovation, digital transformation, engineering excellence, and economic growth.
The bursary also promotes inclusion by prioritising students with disabilities, learners from LEAP Science and Maths Schools, and former AWS interns.
Fields of Study Covered
Undergraduate Qualifications
The bursary supports students studying:
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Computer Engineering
- Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Finance)
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Bachelor of Education (Mathematics and Science)
- Medicine
Students from first year through final year are eligible to apply.
Postgraduate Qualifications
Funding is available for:
- Honours Degrees
- Postgraduate Diplomas
- Master’s Degrees
In the following disciplines:
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
Students Living with Disabilities
Students with disabilities may apply for undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications across all approved study programmes, subject to the bursary requirements.
What the Bursary Covers
The AWS Skills Development Bursary is a full-cost bursary, which may include funding for:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- University residence or approved private accommodation
- Monthly living allowance (subsistence)
- Prescribed textbooks
- Stationery
- A personal computer
Funding is subject to programme conditions and approved cost limits.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens.
- Demonstrate strong academic performance.
- Show leadership potential.
- Intend studying full-time at a recognised South African university.
- Meet the academic admission requirements for their qualification.
Grade 12 Learners
Applicants should have achieved:
- At least 65% in Mathematics
- At least 65% in English Home Language, or
- At least 65% in English First Additional Language
Current University Students
Applicants should maintain:
- An overall academic average of 65% or higher
Priority Applicants
While all qualifying applicants are encouraged to apply, preference may be given to:
- Students living with disabilities.
- Learners from LEAP Science and Maths Schools.
- Former AWS internship participants.
Benefits of the AWS Skills Development Bursary
Successful applicants may receive:
- Full university funding.
- Accommodation assistance.
- Living allowance.
- Textbooks and study materials.
- A personal computer.
- Financial support throughout their studies.
- Opportunity to prepare for careers in high-demand industries.
Skills You Can Develop
Students supported through the programme may build valuable knowledge and skills in:
- Cloud Computing
- Software Development
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Analytics
- Information Technology
- Cybersecurity
- Business Management
- Accounting
- Engineering
- Scientific Research
- Mathematics Education
- Healthcare
Career Opportunities
Graduates may pursue careers including:
- Cloud Engineer
- Software Developer
- Systems Engineer
- Data Scientist
- IT Consultant
- Cybersecurity Specialist
- Electrical Engineer
- Mechanical Engineer
- Civil Engineer
- Chartered Accountant
- Mathematics Teacher
- Medical Practitioner
- Technology Project Manager
Why You Should Apply
The AWS Skills Development Bursary is one of South Africa’s leading technology-focused funding opportunities.
Beyond financial support, the programme helps students focus on completing their qualifications while preparing for careers in industries experiencing strong growth and increasing demand for skilled professionals.
For students with academic ability but limited financial resources, this bursary can make higher education significantly more accessible.
Application Tips
To improve your chances of success:
- Ensure you meet the minimum academic requirements.
- Prepare certified copies of your academic results.
- Gather all required supporting documents before starting your application.
- Complete every section of the online application carefully.
- Apply well before the closing date.
- Read the StudyTrust application guidelines thoroughly.
Where to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the official StudyTrust Online Bursary Application Platform.
Applicants should:
- Register or log into their StudyTrust account.
- Select the AWS Skills Development Bursary.
- Complete the online application.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
- Submit the application before 30 September 2026.
Only applications submitted through the official platform will be considered.
Closing Date
📅 Applications Open: 1 June 2026
📅 Applications Close: 30 September 2026
Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can apply for the AWS Skills Development Bursary?
South African citizens studying or intending to study approved undergraduate or postgraduate qualifications at recognised universities.
Which courses are funded?
The bursary supports qualifications in Computer Science, Information Technology, Engineering, Commerce, Education (Mathematics and Science), Medicine, and selected postgraduate programmes.
What does the bursary pay for?
Funding may include tuition fees, accommodation, living expenses, textbooks, stationery, and a personal computer.
What academic results are required?
Applicants should have:
- A minimum of 65% in Mathematics
- A minimum of 65% in English
- University students should maintain an overall 65% average
Are students with disabilities encouraged to apply?
Yes. The programme gives priority consideration to students living with disabilities.
Can first-year students apply?
Yes. Eligible undergraduate students from first year to final year may apply.
When do applications close?
Applications close on 30 September 2026.
Editorial Policy
This article has been independently written using publicly available information about the AWS Skills Development Bursary 2027. It is intended to provide accurate and educational information for prospective applicants and does not constitute official communication from Amazon Web Services (AWS) or StudyTrust. Applicants should verify the latest programme requirements, supporting documents, and application procedures through the official StudyTrust bursary portal before applying.
Sources and References
- Amazon Web Services (AWS) Skills Development Bursary Programme
- StudyTrust Online Bursary Platform
- Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
- South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)
- National Qualifications Framework (NQF)
