Western Cape Government Health Bursaries

Western Cape Government Health Bursaries

1. Which full-time bursaries in Health does the Western Cape Government offer?

The Western Cape Department of Health offers a limited number of bursaries for full-time study each year in fields where a shortage of skills has been identified.

The aim of the bursary is to attract qualified persons with the required competencies, knowledge and skills to join the Department to meets its service delivery needs. In 2006 academic year, for example, the following bursaries per health science study field were awarded:

  • Nursing.
  • Medical (MBChB).
  • Pharmacy.
  • Radiography.
  • Emergency medical care.

Please note more health science study fields may be added or removed per academic year based on Departmental service delivery needs.

2. What does the bursary cover?

We give financial assistance towards the qualification.

3. Will I have to pay or work anything back?

The bursaries are awarded on a work back principal on a year for a year basis. Community Service Year will count towards the student’s 1st year of bursary obligation, although internship years will not. Students who are working, may start paying back their bursary obligation as soon as they have successfully completed their studies.

4. Who can apply for a bursary?

To apply for one of these bursaries you must be:

  • A South African citizen residing in the Western Cape
  • Be accepted at the relevant accredited Higher Education Institution (HEI)

Bursars’ obligations:

Bursars are expected to furnish the Department with satisfactory proof of registration at an accredited academic institution at the start of the financial year. He or she is also expected to submit all annual or supplementary examination results to the Department within 30 days of receiving such results.

5. How do I apply?

Step 1: Apply at HEI for your required qualification.
Step 2: Collect bursary application from at HEI financial aid office or apply online:  www.westerncape.gov.za/healthbursary
Step 3: Complete the application form.
Step 4: Please ensure that all necessary documents are attached to the application form.
Step 5: Hand deliver the application form with documents back to the financial aid office.

6. Where do I apply?

University of Western Cape (UWC)

Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT)

University of Cape Town (UCT)

University of Stellenbosch (US)

Download: Full Time Bursary Application Form (2025/2026) for all universities.
Students applying for MBChB at a university outside the province must send the application forms directly to the Western Cape Government: Health.

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