SACBW Foundation Bursary 2027 Aims to Empower the Next Generation of South African Women in Business
The South African Council for Business Women (SACBW) Foundation has opened applications for its 2027 Bursary Programme, giving academically talented young women the opportunity to pursue higher education despite financial challenges.
The bursary is specifically aimed at female Matric learners who plan to study business-related qualifications at a recognised South African tertiary institution. Through this initiative, the Foundation hopes to develop future entrepreneurs, business professionals, marketers, and financial specialists who will contribute to economic growth while promoting women’s leadership in the workplace.
In addition to providing financial assistance, the programme encourages academic excellence, leadership development, and entrepreneurship, helping young women build successful and sustainable careers.
Applications for the 2027 academic year will close on 31 August 2026.
Bursary Overview
| Bursary Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary Provider | South African Council for Business Women (SACBW) Foundation |
| Academic Year | 2027 |
| Funding Type | Bursary |
| Eligible Applicants | Female South African Matric learners |
| Study Level | Tertiary Studies |
| Preferred Study Fields | Accounting, Business, Marketing and Entrepreneurship |
| Closing Date | 31 August 2026 |
About the SACBW Foundation
The South African Council for Business Women Foundation is a non-profit organisation committed to advancing opportunities for women through education, leadership, and entrepreneurship.
Its bursary programme supports academically deserving learners from financially disadvantaged backgrounds by helping them access higher education. The Foundation believes that empowering women with quality education creates stronger communities, successful businesses, and future leaders who can positively influence South Africa’s economy.
Successful bursary recipients also receive recognition through the SACBW Youth Leader Award, highlighting their academic achievement and leadership potential.
Fields of Study Covered
The bursary gives preference to students who intend studying qualifications in the following disciplines:
- Accounting
- Bookkeeping
- Business Development Management
- Digital Marketing
- Marketing Management
- Practical Entrepreneurship
The Foundation’s Board of Directors may also consider applications for other related programmes where appropriate, although priority is given to the listed fields.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must satisfy all of the following minimum requirements:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be female.
- Be under the age of 20 years.
- Be currently enrolled in Matric.
- Achieve a minimum overall academic average of 70%.
- Intend to study one of the supported fields during the 2027 academic year.
- Demonstrate financial need and require assistance to continue their studies.
Meeting the eligibility requirements does not automatically guarantee that funding will be awarded.
What the Bursary Offers
The SACBW Foundation Bursary provides financial assistance to deserving students, helping reduce the financial burden of tertiary education.
Funding awarded through the programme is paid directly to the registered tertiary institution on behalf of the successful student.
Beyond financial support, recipients become part of an initiative that encourages leadership, confidence, entrepreneurship, and personal development.
Selection Process
Once applications have closed, the SACBW Foundation will review all eligible submissions.
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted during the evaluation process.
Applicants who have not received any communication by 30 September 2026 should regard their application as unsuccessful.
Selection takes into account:
- Academic performance
- Financial need
- Motivation for studying
- Quality of the submitted application
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must include the following compulsory documents:
- Certified copy of South African ID.
- Certified copy of June Matric results.
- Completed bursary application form.
- A motivational essay of approximately 250 words.
- A motivational video lasting approximately three minutes.
Submission Guidelines
Applicants should:
- Combine the completed application form and all supporting documents into one PDF document.
- Save the PDF using their full name and surname.
- Submit the motivational video via email or an approved file-sharing service such as Dropbox or WeTransfer.
Applications missing any compulsory documents may not be considered.
Important Application Information
Applicants should note the following:
- Enter “www.zabursaries.co.za” when asked where you heard about the bursary.
- Use “SACBW Foundation Bursary” as the email subject line.
- Email applications to the official SACBW Foundation bursary email address.
The application form refers to a R199 registration fee. However, the Foundation has indicated that applications may still be submitted while requests for fee waivers are considered where appropriate.
Benefits of Receiving the Bursary
Successful students may receive:
- Financial assistance for tertiary education.
- Recognition through the SACBW Youth Leader Award.
- Access to higher education opportunities.
- Leadership development.
- Greater career opportunities.
- Support in achieving long-term professional goals.
Career Opportunities
The funded qualifications can prepare graduates for careers in:
- Accounting
- Bookkeeping
- Business Development
- Marketing
- Digital Marketing
- Entrepreneurship
- Sales
- Brand Management
- Business Consulting
- Financial Administration
Graduates may also pursue further studies or establish their own businesses.
Application Tips
Before submitting your application:
- Confirm that your academic average meets the minimum requirement.
- Write a thoughtful and original motivational essay.
- Record a clear and confident three-minute video.
- Ensure all documents are certified and legible.
- Combine all documents into a single PDF.
- Submit your application well before the closing date.
Where to Apply
Applications must be submitted via email to the official SACBW Foundation bursary office.
Applicants should ensure that:
- The completed application form is attached.
- Supporting documents are included in one PDF file.
- The motivational video is submitted.
- The correct email subject line is used.
Incomplete or late submissions are unlikely to be considered.
Closing Date
31 August 2026
Applications received after the closing date will not be accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is eligible to apply?
Female South African Matric learners under the age of 20 who meet the academic and financial eligibility requirements.
Which qualifications receive preference?
Preference is given to:
- Accounting
- Bookkeeping
- Business Development Management
- Digital Marketing
- Marketing Management
- Practical Entrepreneurship
What minimum marks are required?
Applicants must have achieved at least a 70% overall average during Matric.
Is a motivational essay required?
Yes. Applicants must submit a 250-word motivational essay.
Must I submit a video?
Yes. A three-minute motivational video is a compulsory part of the application.
How will I know if I have been selected?
Shortlisted applicants will be contacted. Those who receive no response by 30 September 2026 should consider their application unsuccessful.
Why You Should Apply
The rising cost of higher education continues to prevent many talented students from achieving their dreams. The SACBW Foundation Bursary Programme helps address this challenge by investing in academically strong young women who show determination, leadership potential, and a commitment to building successful careers.
Whether your ambition is to become an accountant, entrepreneur, marketer, or business executive, this bursary can provide valuable financial support while recognising your potential to become a future leader in South Africa’s business community.
Editorial Policy
This article has been independently prepared for informational purposes using publicly available information about the SACBW Foundation Bursary Programme. Applicants should consult the official SACBW Foundation application documents for the latest eligibility requirements, supporting documents, and submission guidelines before applying.
Sources and References
- SACBW Foundation Bursary Programme
- South African Council for Business Women (SACBW)
- Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
- South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)
Disclaimer: This article is an independent editorial guide and is not affiliated with or endorsed by the SACBW Foundation. Bursary requirements, study fields, funding arrangements, and application procedures may change at any time. Applicants should always refer to the official bursary information before submitting an application.
