Nursing is one of the most in-demand careers in South Africa and around the world. However, the cost of tuition, textbooks, uniforms, clinical fees, and accommodation can make it difficult for many students to complete their nursing education. Scholarships are a great solution because they allow students to focus on their studies without financial stress.
In 2025, there are many fully funded scholarships for nursing students in South Africa. These scholarships cover tuition, living expenses, books, and sometimes even travel and research costs. They are funded by the South African government, private companies, international organizations, and NGOs that are committed to improving healthcare through quality education.
This article will guide you through the top nursing scholarships in South Africa for 2025, including their eligibility criteria, benefits, and step-by-step application process. Whether you are an undergraduate, diploma student, or postgraduate nurse, there is a scholarship opportunity for you.
Summary Table: Fully Funded Nursing Scholarships in South Africa 2025
| Scholarship Name | Type | Coverage | Eligibility | Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| South African Department of Health Bursaries | Fully Funded | Tuition, books, living allowance | South African nursing students | April – June 2025 |
| Funza Lushaka Bursary (Nursing Stream) | Fully Funded | Tuition, stipend, teaching placement | SA citizens in accredited programs | March – April 2025 |
| Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship | Fully Funded | Tuition, accommodation, stipend, leadership program | Postgraduate nursing students | July 2025 |
| DENOSA (Democratic Nursing Organisation) Scholarships | Fully Funded | Tuition, books, clinical costs | SA nursing students who are DENOSA members | May 2025 |
| National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS) | Fully Funded | Tuition, transport, living allowance | Undergraduate nursing students | January – February 2025 |
| Discovery Foundation Scholarships | Fully Funded | Tuition, research, mentorship | Nursing and medical students | April 2025 |
| HWSETA Nursing Bursaries | Fully Funded | Tuition, books, accommodation | Nursing students in HWSETA-accredited institutions | March 2025 |
| Anglo American Health Scholarships | Fully Funded | Tuition, accommodation, living stipend | Students from mining communities | April 2025 |
| PEPFAR/ICAP Nursing Scholarships | Fully Funded | Tuition, clinical practice, mentorship | Students in public health-focused programs | Rolling applications |
1. South African Department of Health Bursaries for Nursing Students
The South African Department of Health offers fully funded bursaries to nursing students at public nursing colleges and universities.
Eligibility:
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Must be a South African citizen
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Must be accepted or enrolled in a nursing program at a public institution
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Priority is given to students from rural or disadvantaged communities
Benefits:
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Full tuition coverage
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Living allowance
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Book and uniform allowance
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Guaranteed placement in a public healthcare facility after graduation
Application Tips:
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Apply early through your provincial health department
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Submit proof of income and residence
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Ensure your academic results meet the minimum requirements
Deadline: April – June 2025
2. Funza Lushaka Bursary Program (Nursing Stream)
The Funza Lushaka Bursary is widely known for funding teaching students, but it also supports students enrolled in accredited nursing programs.
Eligibility:
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South African citizens only
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Must be enrolled in a recognized nursing college or university
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Must be willing to work in underserved communities after graduation
Benefits:
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Full tuition and accommodation
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Monthly stipend
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Books and learning materials
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Employment placement after graduation
Deadline: March – April 2025
3. Mandela Rhodes Foundation Scholarship
This scholarship supports postgraduate students, including nurses pursuing master’s degrees or research in healthcare fields.
Eligibility:
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African citizens (including South Africans)
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Excellent academic record
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Strong leadership and community service background
Benefits:
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Tuition, accommodation, and living allowance
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Leadership and personal development training
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Access to an exclusive alumni network
Deadline: July 2025
4. DENOSA Nursing Scholarships
The Democratic Nursing Organisation of South Africa (DENOSA) offers scholarships to its members studying nursing.
Eligibility:
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Must be a DENOSA member in good standing
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Must be enrolled in a recognized nursing program
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Must demonstrate financial need
Benefits:
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Tuition fees
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Books and clinical supplies
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Mentorship from experienced nurses
Deadline: May 2025
5. National Student Financial Aid Scheme (NSFAS)
NSFAS is one of the most popular sources of funding for nursing students in public universities and TVET colleges.
Eligibility:
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South African citizens from low-income households
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Enrolled in an accredited nursing program at a public institution
Benefits:
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Tuition fees
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Accommodation and transport allowance
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Monthly stipend for food and books
Application Tips:
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Apply online through the NSFAS portal
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Submit your ID, proof of income, and academic records
Deadline: January – February 2025
6. Discovery Foundation Scholarships
The Discovery Foundation funds students in nursing and healthcare research.
Eligibility:
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Nursing students or qualified nurses pursuing research degrees
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Must show leadership potential and community service
Benefits:
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Tuition and research expenses
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Mentorship and leadership training
Deadline: April 2025
7. HWSETA Nursing Bursaries
The Health and Welfare Sector Education and Training Authority (HWSETA) provides funding for students in nursing and allied health programs.
Eligibility:
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Must be enrolled in an HWSETA-accredited nursing institution
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Must demonstrate financial need
Benefits:
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Full tuition fees
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Accommodation and living allowance
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Textbooks and clinical tools
Deadline: March 2025
8. Anglo American Health Scholarships
Anglo American sponsors students from mining communities who wish to study nursing.
Eligibility:
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Must be from a community near Anglo American operations
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Must be accepted into a nursing college or university
Benefits:
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Tuition, accommodation, and a living stipend
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Vacation work during holidays
Deadline: April 2025
9. PEPFAR/ICAP Nursing Scholarships
PEPFAR and ICAP provide scholarships for nursing students in public health-focused programs, particularly those working in HIV/AIDS care.
Eligibility:
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Must be enrolled in a recognized nursing program
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Must demonstrate interest in public health and community service
Benefits:
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Tuition fees
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Clinical practice support
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Mentorship by healthcare experts
Deadline: Rolling applications (apply as soon as possible)
How to Apply for Fully Funded Nursing Scholarships in South Africa (Step-by-Step)
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Research early: Start searching for scholarships at least 6 months before the deadline.
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Identify suitable programs: Match your level (diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate) and career goals.
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Prepare required documents:
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Academic transcripts
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South African ID
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Proof of income or affidavit
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Proof of residence
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Admission letter from a nursing school
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Write a strong personal statement: Explain your passion for nursing and community service.
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Submit online or through nursing colleges: Follow instructions carefully.
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Apply for multiple scholarships: This increases your chances of being selected.
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Track deadlines: Late applications are usually disqualified.
Tips to Increase Your Chances of Winning a Scholarship
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Maintain a strong academic record
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Participate in community service and leadership activities
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Apply for more than one scholarship
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Ask lecturers or employers for strong recommendation letters
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Submit all required documents in the correct format
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Are there fully funded nursing scholarships in South Africa?
Yes. Scholarships from the Department of Health, NSFAS, Mandela Rhodes Foundation, HWSETA, and others offer full funding.
2. Do I need to be a South African citizen to apply?
Most scholarships require South African citizenship, but programs like Mandela Rhodes are open to all Africans.
3. Can part-time nursing students apply for these scholarships?
Some scholarships allow part-time students, but most prioritize full-time students.
4. Do these scholarships cover accommodation and living expenses?
Yes. Fully funded scholarships usually cover tuition, accommodation, transport, and a stipend for living expenses.
5. Can I apply for multiple scholarships?
Yes. Applying for multiple programs increases your chances of success.
6. Are postgraduate nursing students eligible?
Yes. Scholarships like Mandela Rhodes and Discovery Foundation target postgraduate students.
7. How competitive are nursing scholarships in South Africa?
They are highly competitive. Submit strong applications with excellent academic results and community involvement.
8. What is the minimum academic requirement?
It varies. Most require at least a 60% average in your previous studies.
9. Do I need work experience to qualify?
Work experience is not mandatory for undergraduate scholarships, but it can strengthen your application.
10. When should I start applying?
Start at least 6 months before the deadline to gather documents and prepare a strong application.
Conclusion: Take Action and Apply Now
Nursing scholarships in South Africa are an excellent way to achieve your dream of becoming a nurse without financial stress. Whether you are an undergraduate, diploma student, or postgraduate nurse, there are opportunities for you.
In 2025, fully funded scholarships from NSFAS, Department of Health, Mandela Rhodes Foundation, HWSETA, and others can help you complete your studies successfully.
Key tips:
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Apply early
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Submit accurate and complete applications
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Prepare strong recommendation letters and personal statements
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Apply to multiple programs to increase your chances
Now is the time to take action. Research the scholarships above, gather your documents, and apply before the deadlines. Nursing is a noble profession, and these scholarships can help you start your journey without worrying about finances.