Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary South Africa 2026

The Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust is a key initiative of Cisco’s global commitment to digital transformation and inclusive access to education. Established in South Africa in 2021, the Trust aims to empower students through educational support, particularly in the field of Information Technology.

This bursary programme is part of Cisco’s broader social investment strategy, which works in collaboration with nonprofit organizations and community stakeholders to uplift underserved communities by advancing digital skills and education.

About the Bursary Programme – Fields Covered

The Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust South Africa is inviting applications for its 2026 academic bursary programme. The bursary is aimed at students pursuing undergraduate studies in technology-related disciplines and is available for qualifications at NQF Level 7 and NQF Level 8.

Funded Fields of Study

• Computer Engineering
• Computer Science
• Information Technology
• Software Engineering

These fields are strategically chosen to equip students with the skills required in today’s digital economy, supporting Cisco’s vision of a digitally inclusive future.

Bursary Coverage – What is Included

Successful applicants will receive financial assistance that may include:

• Tuition fees
• Prescribed learning materials and resources
• Additional academic-related costs, as determined

The bursary is designed to reduce the financial stress on students, allowing them to focus fully on their academic success.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following minimum criteria to be eligible for the bursary:

• Must be a South African citizen
• Must be pursuing or planning to pursue studies in one of the listed IT-related fields
• Must be entering their 1st to 4th year of study in 2026
• Fourth-year students include those in BTech or Honours programmes
• Must be registered or accepted at a South African public or private institution registered with the Department of Education
• Must have a strong academic record
• Must demonstrate financial need, with a combined household income between R350 000 and R600 000 per year
• Preference will be given to candidates from equity groups

Applicants who do not meet all of the above requirements will not be considered.

Application Process – How to Apply

Students interested in applying for the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary must complete an online application and submit all supporting documents.

Required Supporting Documents

• Recent head and shoulders photograph
• Matric certificate or latest Matric results
• Full academic record (if currently studying)
• Proof of acceptance or registration at a tertiary institution
• Proof of household income, which may include:
  • Latest payslips (if employed)
  • Affidavit (if unemployed or self-employed)
  • Most recent audited financial statement or three months’ bank statements (for business owners)
  • SASSA documentation (if receiving social grants)

All documents must be clear and certified where applicable. Incomplete or missing documentation may lead to automatic disqualification.

Closing Date

The closing date to apply for the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary is:

30 September 2025

Late applications will not be accepted, and students are advised to apply early to avoid disappointment.

Final Words

The Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary is more than just financial support—it is an opportunity to be part of a digital future driven by innovation and inclusion. By supporting students in IT-related fields, the programme helps close the digital divide and build a skilled workforce for South Africa’s future.