Compensation Fund Bursary

The Compensation Fund Bursary is a South African government bursary programme designed to help individuals and families who have been affected by workplace injuries or diseases. It aims to give beneficiaries a fresh opportunity to access education, improve their skills, and build a better future through funded study. This bursary is offered by the Department of Employment and Labour through the Compensation Fund.

What Is the Compensation Fund Bursary?

The Compensation Fund Bursary is a funding initiative that supports people who have experienced permanent disabilities due to work‑related accidents or illnesses, as well as dependants of those individuals or dependants of workers who died due to workplace incidents. The main goal of this programme is to assist beneficiaries in gaining qualifications that will allow them to return to the workforce, pursue self‑employment, or gain meaningful skills.

Who Can Apply?

To be eligible for this bursary, applicants must fall into one of the following groups:

• Unemployed COID beneficiaries who have a permanent disability caused by occupational injuries or diseases.
• Dependants of COID beneficiaries with permanent disabilities.
• Dependants of employees who were fatally injured, usually within the age range of 17 to 35 years.

Applicants must be South African citizens and demonstrate that they have been accepted or are enrolled at a recognised South African public education institution, such as a Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College, Community Education and Training (CET) College, or a university or university of technology.

What Does the Bursary Cover?

This bursary provides comprehensive financial support to remove major barriers to study. The programme typically covers:

• Tuition fees for the registered qualification.
• Prescribed study materials, including textbooks and learning resources.
• A monthly stipend to help with living expenses.
• Accommodation costs, where applicable and approved.

The funding is awarded for one academic year at a time and can be renewed each year for the full duration of the chosen qualification, as long as the student continues to perform well academically and funds remain available.

Fields of Study Supported

The bursary supports a wide range of study programmes. Rather than restricting applicants to a few specific courses, the focus is on fields that help beneficiaries build skills that can reintegrate them into the workforce or enable self‑employment. Although some bursary advertisements list recommended qualifications, applicants are generally encouraged to pursue careers that support their long‑term goals and abilities.

Requirements and Documentation

To apply successfully, applicants must complete the official bursary application form and provide supporting documents, which usually include:

• A valid South African identity document.
• A COID pension or claim number for the applicant or the deceased parent.
• Proof of acceptance or registration at a recognised TVET college, CET college, or higher education institution.
• Verification of disability, where applicable, confirmed by a registered health professional or a disability support office.
• Certified copies of guardian or parent identity documents or a death certificate for dependants of fatally injured workers.
• Documents proving full‑time enrolment, unless special approval is granted for part‑time study under certain circumstances.

Sometimes bursary programmes may require additional statements, such as proof of unemployment or a letter from the Department of Employment and Labour, to support the application.

How to Apply

The application process usually involves the following steps:

1. Download the official Compensation Fund Bursary application form from the Department of Employment and Labour website or collect it from a provincial labour centre.
2. Complete the form carefully and attach all required supporting documents.
3. Submit the application through one of the accepted methods, such as by email to the bursary office, hand‑delivery at the Compensation Fund offices, or by postal courier.

Contact details for assistance are generally provided on the bursary form and include phone numbers and email addresses for enquiries.

Closing Date and Important Notes

Applications for the 2026 Compensation Fund Bursary are open, but individuals are encouraged to submit their completed forms before 31 March 2026 for priority consideration. Applicants should note that if they do not receive feedback within about two months after the closing date, their applications may not have been successful.

Final Thoughts

The Compensation Fund Bursary offers a valuable opportunity for South Africans whose lives have been disrupted by workplace injuries, disabilities, or the loss of a family member. By providing financial support for tuition, study materials, living costs, and accommodation, it opens the door to education and career development, helping beneficiaries to rebuild their lives with confidence and dignity.