The Hollywood Foundation Future Is Bright Bursary Programme 2027 has officially opened applications, offering full and partial bursaries to academically deserving South African students pursuing higher education. The initiative aims to remove financial barriers while equipping young people with the skills, confidence, and professional development needed to succeed in their careers.
Applications are open from 3 August to 3 September 2026, and eligible learners and tertiary students are encouraged to apply before the deadline.
About the Future Is Bright Bursary Programme
The Future Is Bright Bursary Programme is a flagship education initiative of the Hollywood Foundation, designed to support ambitious South African students transitioning from secondary school to tertiary education. Beyond financial assistance, the programme emphasizes holistic student development by preparing beneficiaries with practical knowledge, leadership skills, and career readiness opportunities.
The bursary supports studies at Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)-registered institutions across a wide range of priority disciplines that contribute to South Africa’s growing economy.
What the Bursary Covers
Successful applicants may receive either a Full Cost Bursary or a Partial Bursary, depending on the outcome of the selection process.
Full Cost Bursary
The comprehensive funding package includes:
- Registration fees
- Full tuition fees
- Prescribed study material allowance
- Accommodation and living stipend (where applicable)
Partial Bursary
The partial award provides support for:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed study material allowance
This flexible funding model enables more students to access quality higher education while reducing the financial burden of university and college studies.
Eligible Fields of Study
The bursary supports students pursuing qualifications in high-demand and career-focused disciplines, including:
- Information Technology and Computer Science
- Data Science
- Finance and Accounting
- BCom Law
- Marketing
- Digital Marketing and Communications
- Media and Communications
- Graphic Design
- Supply Chain and Logistics Management
- Project Management
- Business Management
- Human Resources Management
- Architectural Design
- Technical and Artisan Courses (for eligible RCK team members)
These programmes have been selected to promote employability and develop skilled professionals across multiple industries.
Qualification Levels Supported
Applicants may apply for funding if they are pursuing any of the following qualifications:
- Higher Certificate
- Diploma
- Bachelor’s Degree
- Advanced Diploma
- Postgraduate Diploma
- Honours Degree
The intended qualification must have a minimum duration of 12 months and be offered by a DHET-registered institution.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the 2027 bursary programme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Grade 12 learners must have a minimum overall average of 65%.
- Current tertiary students must have a minimum overall average of 60%.
- Be applying to or accepted at a recognised tertiary institution.
- Study a qualification lasting at least 12 months.
- Attend an institution registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training.
Only applicants who satisfy all eligibility requirements will be considered during the competitive selection process.
Required Application Documents
Applicants should prepare the following documents before submitting their online application:
- Latest academic results
- Proof of residential address
- Certified copy of a South African ID (certified within the past six months)
- Proof of university application or an acceptance letter
- Motivation letter explaining the chosen qualification and financial need for bursary support
The foundation has emphasized that incomplete or incorrect applications will be automatically disqualified, making careful preparation essential.
Selection Process
Following the application period, shortlisted candidates will undergo a comprehensive selection process that may include:
- Eligibility verification
- Academic assessment
- Interviews
- Final bursary evaluation
Applicants are encouraged to review every section of their application carefully before submission to avoid disqualification.
Important Dates
| Activity | Date |
|---|---|
| Applications Open | 3 August 2026 |
| Applications Close | 3 September 2026 |
| Selection Process | After closing date |
Late applications will not be accepted.
Why Students Should Apply
The Hollywood Foundation Future Is Bright Bursary is more than a financial aid programme—it is an investment in South Africa’s future workforce. By combining tuition support with student development and career preparation, the initiative enables talented young people to pursue higher education without allowing financial circumstances to limit their potential.
Students meeting the academic and eligibility requirements are encouraged to submit their applications before 3 September 2026 to be considered for one of the available bursary awards.
