February is one of the most critical months for students searching for funding in South Africa. Several high-value bursary programmes close within days — and missing these deadlines could mean losing full financial support for the 2026 academic year.
If you’re studying (or planning to study) in Accounting, Engineering, IT, Energy, or Industrial fields, these are the top 4 bursaries you must apply for before 13 February 2026.
⏳ Time is limited. Let’s get straight into it.
1. PG Group Bursaries 2026 (For African Female Students)
Closing Date: 10 February 2026
PG Group invites African female students to apply for its 2026 Bursary Programme, aimed at empowering women in scarce-skills fields.
Fields of Study:
- Accounting
- Engineering
- Information Technology (IT)
Who Should Apply:
- Academically strong African female students
- Registered or intending to study at an accredited South African university
- Students with financial need and strong academic performance
This bursary is especially important for women pursuing male-dominated fields, making it both a financial and empowerment opportunity.
How to apply:
Click here to apply for PG Group Bursaries 2026
2. National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) Bursaries 2026
Closing Date: 12 February 2026
National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) is offering bursaries to South African postgraduate students for the 2026 academic year.
Key Focus Areas:
- Energy studies
- Economics
- Engineering
- Law
- Finance and related postgraduate fields
Ideal Candidates:
- South African citizens
- Accepted or registered for postgraduate studies
- Strong academic background
- Interest in energy regulation and public sector work
This bursary is ideal for students planning a career in energy policy, regulation, or government institutions.
👉 How to apply:
Click here to apply for NERSA Bursaries 2026
3. South African Petroleum Refinery (SAPREF) Bursaries 2026
Closing Date: 12 February 2026
South African Petroleum Refinery (SAPREF) invites South African students to apply for its 2026 Bursary Programme, targeting skills critical to the energy and petroleum sector.
Fields Commonly Supported:
- Chemical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Finance
- Environmental and related studies
Why This Bursary Matters:
- Strong industry exposure
- Focus on energy and industrial development
- Ideal for students interested in refineries, energy production, and heavy industry
👉 How to apply:
Click here to apply for SAPREF Bursaries 2026
4. Idwala Industrial Holdings Community Bursaries 2026
Closing Date: 13 February 2026
Idwala Industrial Holdings is offering Community Bursaries to South African students for the 2026 academic year.
Bursary Focus:
- Engineering
- Science-related qualifications
- Industrial and technical fields
Who Should Apply:
- South African students from communities near Idwala operations
- Students with strong academic potential
- Learners who need financial assistance to continue studying
This bursary is ideal for students from mining and industrial communities seeking long-term career development.
👉 How to apply:
Click here to apply for Idwala Industrial Holdings Bursaries 2026
Why You Should Apply Now (Not Tomorrow)
Many students miss bursaries because they:
- Assume they won’t qualify
- Wait until the last day
- Underestimate competition
Applying early:
- Reduces technical issues
- Improves application quality
- Shows commitment and seriousness
Even if you’re unsure — apply anyway.
Final Reminder: February Deadlines Are Non-Negotiable
These bursaries close between 10 and 13 February 2026. Once the deadline passes, no late applications are accepted.
If you qualify for even one of these — apply today.