CISCO Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary Programme 2027: Funding for Future Technology Professionals

Financial Support for Students Pursuing Careers in Technology

Technology continues to shape the future of work, creating exciting opportunities for skilled professionals in software development, information technology, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and computer engineering.

However, for many talented South African students, the cost of higher education remains a major obstacle.

The CISCO Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary Programme 2027 was created to help address this challenge by providing financial assistance to deserving students who want to build careers in technology-related fields.

Since launching its bursary initiative in 2021, the foundation has focused on supporting students from South Africa’s “missing middle” households. These are families that often earn too much to qualify for certain financial aid programmes but still face significant difficulties paying university fees and study-related costs.

If you plan to study Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, or Computer Engineering in 2027, this bursary could help you continue your academic journey and move closer to your career goals.

About the CISCO South Africa Bursary Programme 2027

The CISCO Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary Programme aims to support academically deserving students who demonstrate financial need and a strong commitment to their studies.

The programme focuses on developing future technology professionals who can contribute to South Africa’s growing digital economy.

Funding is available for students studying approved technology-related qualifications at registered public and private higher education institutions.

Bursary Overview

Bursary Information	Details
Bursary Provider	CISCO Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa
Programme	CISCO South Africa Bursary Programme 2027
Applications Open	01 June 2026
Applications Close	30 September 2026
Study Year Supported	2027
Target Group	South African students in technology fields
Application Method	Online Application

Fields of Study Supported

The bursary supports students pursuing qualifications in several high-demand technology disciplines.

Computer Science

Computer Science focuses on the development of software, algorithms, data systems, and computing solutions.

Students in this field learn how technology solves complex problems across industries.

Potential career opportunities include:

Software Developer
Systems Analyst
Data Scientist
Artificial Intelligence Specialist
Machine Learning Engineer
Solutions Architect

As digital transformation continues to accelerate, demand for Computer Science graduates remains strong.

Computer Engineering

Computer Engineering combines elements of computer science and electrical engineering.

Students gain knowledge in both hardware and software systems.

Possible career paths include:

Hardware Engineer
Embedded Systems Engineer
Systems Architect
Network Engineer
Telecommunications Engineer

This field is ideal for students interested in how computer systems are designed and built.

Software Engineering

Software Engineering focuses on designing, developing, testing, and maintaining software applications.

Professionals in this field create solutions used by businesses, governments, and consumers worldwide.

Career opportunities may include:

Software Engineer
Application Developer
Mobile Developer
DevOps Engineer
Software Tester
Systems Developer

Software development remains one of the most sought-after skills in the global technology industry.

Information Technology

Information Technology focuses on managing, supporting, and securing technology infrastructure.

Students develop skills related to computer systems, networking, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and technical support.

Career opportunities include:

IT Administrator
Cloud Engineer
Cybersecurity Specialist
Database Administrator
IT Support Specialist
Network Administrator

Technology-driven organisations continue to require skilled IT professionals across all sectors.

Who Can Apply?

Applicants must meet the following eligibility requirements before submitting an application.

South African Citizenship

Applicants must:

Be South African citizens

Only South African citizens will be considered for funding.

Academic Performance Requirements

Applicants should:

Demonstrate strong academic performance
Show the ability to successfully complete their qualification
Maintain satisfactory academic progress

Academic merit remains an important consideration during the selection process.

Financial Need Requirements

Applicants must come from households with a combined annual income between:

R350,000 and R600,000 per year

This income category is commonly known as the “missing middle.”

Many students within this group do not qualify for full government funding but still struggle to afford university education.

The bursary seeks to assist these students in completing their studies.

Study Level Requirements

The bursary is open to students who will be:

First-year students in 2027
Second-year students in 2027
Third-year students in 2027
Fourth-year students in 2027
B Tech students (NQF Level 7)
Honours students (NQF Level 8)

This allows support across multiple stages of tertiary education.

Institution Requirements

Applicants must be accepted at or registered with:

Public universities
Registered private higher education institutions

The institution must be officially recognised by the Department of Education.

Preference During Selection

While all eligible students may apply, preference may be given to:

Equity candidates
Historically disadvantaged students
Financially needy applicants
Academically deserving students

The programme aims to promote educational access and transformation within the technology sector.

What Does the Bursary Cover?

Students should review the official bursary guidelines for complete details.

However, bursaries of this nature typically assist with study-related expenses such as:

Tuition fees
Registration costs
Prescribed textbooks
Learning materials
Academic support expenses

The final funding package may vary depending on individual circumstances and available funding.

Documents Required

Applicants should prepare the following documents before beginning the application process:

Certified copy of South African ID
Latest academic results
Proof of registration or acceptance letter
Parent or guardian proof of income
Affidavits where required
Any additional documents requested during the application process

Preparing these documents early can make the application process smoother and reduce delays.

How to Apply

The application process is completed online.

Step 1: Review the Application Guidelines

Carefully read all bursary requirements and instructions before starting your application.

Make sure you understand the eligibility criteria and required documentation.

Step 2: Gather Supporting Documents

Ensure all documents are:

Complete
Certified where necessary
Clearly scanned
Easy to read

Step 3: Complete the Online Application

Fill in all required personal, academic, and financial information accurately.

Incomplete applications may not be considered.

Step 4: Upload Supporting Documents

Attach all required supporting documents before submitting the application.

Step 5: Submit Before the Deadline

Applications submitted after the closing date are generally not considered.

Applicants are encouraged to submit well before the deadline to avoid technical issues or last-minute problems.

Important Dates

Activity	Date
Applications Open	01 June 2026
Applications Close	30 September 2026
Funding Year	2027

Students should begin preparing their applications as early as possible.

Why This Bursary Is Worth Considering

The technology sector continues to offer some of the fastest-growing and highest-demand career opportunities both in South Africa and internationally.

Through this bursary, students can focus on their studies while reducing some of the financial pressure associated with higher education.

Beyond funding, the programme supports the development of future technology professionals who will contribute to innovation, digital transformation, and economic growth.

For students passionate about technology, software development, cybersecurity, engineering, or IT infrastructure, this opportunity can provide valuable support toward achieving long-term career goals.

Final Thoughts

The CISCO Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary Programme 2027 provides important financial assistance to students pursuing qualifications in Computer Science, Information Technology, Software Engineering, and Computer Engineering.

With a strong focus on supporting academically deserving students from the missing middle income group, the programme helps create opportunities for talented young people to complete their studies and build successful careers in the technology sector.

Students who meet the requirements are encouraged to prepare their documents early and submit their applications before the closing date.