The GCRA Bursary Programme is designed to help students from Gauteng with the cost of their studies. The bursary covers a wide range of expenses to ensure students can focus on their academic journey:

• Registration fees
• Tuition fees
• Accommodation:
  • Up to R65 000 for residence accommodation
  • Up to R47 000 for off-campus/private accommodation
• Books
• Laptop
• Living allowance (for off-campus/private accommodation)

Eligibility Criteria

Before applying, make sure you meet the following eligibility criteria. Failure to meet the requirements will result in your application being disqualified:

1. South African Citizen: You must be a South African citizen.
2. Age Requirement: You must be between 18 and 35 years old.
3. Gauteng Residence: You must reside within the Gauteng province.
4. Matric Completion: You must have completed your Matric in Gauteng.
5. Institutional Acceptance: You must be accepted or registered to study towards an Undergraduate or Postgraduate qualification in 2025.
6. Accredited Institution: You must be enrolled at a registered and accredited Post School Education and Training (PSET) institution in South Africa. This includes universities, universities of technology, TVET colleges, private colleges, and skills development providers.
7. Preference Sectors: Preference will be given to students pursuing studies in the GGT2030 priority sectors, which include:
   • Art and Design
   • Finance, Economics, and Accounting
   • Electrical Infrastructure Construction
   • Civil Engineering Construction
   • Hospitality Management
   • IT and Computer Science
   • Mechanical Automotive and Diesel Engineering
   • Tourism
   • Transport and Logistics

Top achievers from Gauteng-based schools, top 3 learners from no-fee paying Gauteng schools, and top 3 learners from Learners with Special Education Needs (LSEN) schools will automatically qualify for the bursary, but they must still submit an application.

How to Apply for the GCRA Bursary

Applications must be submitted online via the GCRA Bursary Portal. To apply, follow these steps:

1. Register an Account: Visit the GCRA portal and create an account.
2. Login: Once registered, log in to your account to begin your application.
3. Complete the Application: The application process includes providing personal details, academic history (including your Matric results), information about your tertiary institution, and uploading required documents.

Note: You will need to indicate whether you are applying as a new intake, renewal, top achiever, or if you are applying for top-up funding. If you’re unsure, refer to the application guidelines for more information.

Submit clear copies of the following documents when applying (in pdf format, each not exceeding 2MB):

• Certified copy of your ID document
• Certified copy of your Matric certificate
• Certified copy of your most recent academic record (if you’re currently studying)
• Proof of registration/acceptance from your institution (on the institution’s letterhead)
• Proof of residence in Gauteng (e.g., water/electricity bill, or a letter from your local ward councillor or traditional authority)
• Motivational letter (max 2 pages) explaining why you should be awarded the bursary
• Disability/medical report (if applicable)
• Parents/guardians’ proof of income (latest payslips or affidavit if unemployed)
• Proof of other bursaries or financial assistance (if applicable)

Important Notes for Applicants

• Troubleshooting: If you encounter issues with the GCRA portal, check your internet connection or try using another browser (Chrome, Safari, or Internet Explorer).
• Application Status: After submission, applicants will be notified within 3 to 4 weeks about the status of their application. If you don’t hear back after 4 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.
• Payments: GCRA funds are paid directly to the institution, though allowances for laptops, books, and living expenses are paid directly to the students.
• Assistive Devices: If you require assistive devices for your studies, you can email gdeinfo@gauteng.gov.za for assistance.
• Appeals: If your application is declined, you may appeal by emailing gdeinfo@gauteng.gov.za.