Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary Programme 2027 Applications Open for IT Students
Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary Programme 2027
Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary Programme 2027
The Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary Programme 2027 is now accepting applications from academically talented South African students pursuing qualifications in Information Technology and related fields.
Managed by StudyTrust, this bursary programme was established to support students from the “missing middle” income category who often face challenges accessing higher education funding despite not qualifying for government-funded bursaries.
As technology continues to transform industries around the world, Cisco is investing in the future of South Africa’s digital economy by helping deserving students gain access to quality tertiary education.
If you are studying Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Software Engineering, or Information Technology, this bursary could help fund your studies for the 2027 academic year.
About the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust
Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary Programme 2027
The Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa launched its bursary programme in 2021 as part of its commitment to education, digital transformation, and youth development.
Cisco is one of the world’s leading technology companies and has invested heavily in education initiatives globally.
The bursary programme aligns with South Africa’s skills development goals and seeks to increase access to technology-related qualifications among talented students who demonstrate both academic excellence and financial need.
As Nelson Mandela famously said:
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
This bursary aims to help young South Africans do exactly that.
What Does the Cisco Bursary Cover?
Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary Programme 2027
The bursary supports students studying qualifications in high-demand technology fields.
Eligible study programmes include:
- Computer Science
- Computer Engineering
- Software Engineering
- Information Technology (IT)
The bursary is available for:
- First-year students
- Second-year students
- Third-year students
- Fourth-year students
- BTech students (NQF Level 7)
- Honours students (NQF Level 8)
Students attending both public and private institutions registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training may apply.
Who Can Apply?
Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary Programme 2027
To qualify for the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary Programme 2027, applicants must meet the following requirements:
Minimum Eligibility Requirements
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be studying or accepted to study an approved IT-related qualification
- Must be registered or accepted at an accredited public or private institution
- Must demonstrate good academic performance
- Must demonstrate financial need
- Combined household income must be between R350,000 and R600,000 per year
- Preference may be given to equity candidates
This bursary specifically targets students who fall within the “missing middle” income bracket.
What Is the Missing Middle?
Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary Programme 2027
The “missing middle” refers to students whose family income is too high to qualify for NSFAS funding but too low to comfortably afford university fees.
Many South African families face this challenge every year.
The Cisco bursary helps bridge this gap by providing financial support to deserving students who may otherwise struggle to complete their studies.
Why Study Information Technology?
Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary Programme 2027
Technology remains one of the fastest-growing industries worldwide.
Businesses, governments, healthcare providers, banks, and educational institutions all depend on technology professionals.
By studying IT-related qualifications, graduates can access careers in:
- Software Development
- Cybersecurity
- Data Science
- Artificial Intelligence
- Cloud Computing
- Network Engineering
- Systems Administration
- Business Analysis
- Information Security
- IT Consulting
These careers continue to be among the most sought-after professions globally.
Documents Required for Application
Applicants must upload the following supporting documents:
Required Documents
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Grade 12 certificate
- Full tertiary academic record (if currently studying)
- Proof of household income
- Proof of acceptance or registration where applicable
Ensure that all documents are:
- Certified
- Clear and readable
- Up to date
- Uploaded in the correct format
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
How to Apply for the Cisco Bursary Programme 2027
Applications must be submitted online through the official StudyTrust bursary platform.
Official Application Website
Apply Online Here:
🔗 https://bursaries.studytrust.org.za
StudyTrust Official Website
🔗 https://www.studytrust.org.za
Cisco South Africa Website
Application Steps
Step 1
Visit the StudyTrust online application portal.
Step 2
Create a student account.
Step 3
Complete the online application form.
Step 4
Upload all required documents.
Step 5
Review your information carefully.
Step 6
Submit your application before the closing date.
Application Opening and Closing Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 1 June 2026 |
| Applications Close | 30 September 2026 |
| Academic Year Funded | 2027 |
Late applications will not be accepted.
Applicants are encouraged to apply well before the closing date.
Benefits of the Cisco Bursary Programme
The programme offers several advantages to successful students.
Benefits Include
- Financial support for tertiary studies
- Access to higher education opportunities
- Reduced financial pressure
- Improved graduation prospects
- Career development opportunities
- Exposure to a globally recognised technology brand
- Increased employability after graduation
For many students, bursary funding can be the difference between completing a qualification and dropping out due to financial challenges.
Career Opportunities After Graduation
Students who complete IT-related qualifications may pursue careers such as:
Software Development
Develop applications, websites, and business systems.
Cybersecurity
Protect organisations against cyber threats and data breaches.
Data Science
Analyse large volumes of data to support decision-making.
Cloud Engineering
Manage cloud infrastructure and digital services.
Network Engineering
Design and maintain communication networks.
Artificial Intelligence
Develop intelligent systems and automation technologies.
Information Security
Protect information assets and digital systems.
Technology professionals remain in demand both in South Africa and internationally.
About StudyTrust
StudyTrust is one of South Africa’s leading educational trusts.
The organisation has:
- More than 50 years of experience
- Distributed over R1 billion in educational funding
- Awarded more than 30,000 bursaries and scholarships
- Supported thousands of students through mentoring programmes
- Partnered with local and international organisations
In addition to bursary administration, StudyTrust provides mentorship and student support services that help students succeed academically and personally.
Tips to Improve Your Chances of Success
To strengthen your application:
Submit Early
Avoid waiting until the final day.
Upload Clear Documents
Ensure all documents are readable.
Check Your Academic Records
Good academic performance strengthens your application.
Provide Accurate Income Information
Financial information must be truthful and verifiable.
Review Your Application Carefully
Check for spelling mistakes and missing information.
Keep Contact Details Updated
Use an active phone number and email address.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who funds the bursary?
The bursary is funded by the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa and administered by StudyTrust.
Can first-year students apply?
Yes. Students entering their first year in 2027 may apply.
Does the bursary support Information Technology studies?
Yes. Information Technology is one of the approved fields.
What household income qualifies?
Combined household income must be between R350,000 and R600,000 annually.
Can students at private institutions apply?
Yes. Students attending accredited private institutions may apply.
Do I need NSFAS to qualify?
No. The bursary is designed specifically for students who may not qualify for NSFAS funding.
When is the application deadline?
Applications close on 30 September 2026.
Where do I apply?
Apply through the official StudyTrust bursary portal:
https://bursaries.studytrust.org.za
Important Official Links
Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary Application
https://bursaries.studytrust.org.za
Cisco Official Website
Final Thoughts
The Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa Bursary Programme 2027 presents an outstanding opportunity for South African students pursuing careers in Computer Science, Software Engineering, Computer Engineering, and Information Technology.
With technology skills becoming increasingly valuable across the globe, obtaining financial support for your studies can help you focus on achieving academic success and building a rewarding future career.
Students who meet the eligibility requirements should gather their supporting documents and submit their applications through the official StudyTrust platform before 30 September 2026.
Early applications are strongly encouraged, as bursary opportunities of this calibre attract significant interest from students across South Africa.