Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary 2027

About the Provider

The Cisco Foundation was established in 1997 and, together with Cisco, partners with nonprofit organisations, non-governmental organisations, and community-based organisations to carry out a wide range of corporate social responsibility programmes. Cisco is one of the world's leading technology companies, known for its work in networking, communications, and the infrastructure that powers the internet. Through its foundation, the company channels some of its strength into making a positive difference in communities around the world.

In South Africa, the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust established a bursary programme in 2021, with the specific aim of furthering IT education opportunities for South African students. This relatively recent initiative reflects a clear understanding of the importance of technology skills in the modern economy and a commitment to helping young people gain access to these opportunities.

South Africa faces a real shortage of skilled professionals in fields such as computing and software engineering. At the same time, many talented students are unable to pursue these qualifications because of financial barriers. The Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary works to address both of these challenges by funding students who have the ability and the desire to study in technology-related fields but who lack the financial means to do so.

A particular strength of the programme is its focus on the missing middle. These are students whose families earn too much to qualify for national funding but too little to comfortably afford university fees. This group often struggles to find support, and the Cisco bursary deliberately targets them, filling an important gap in the funding landscape.

The programme also reflects a commitment to transformation and inclusion. Preference is given to equity candidates, helping to widen access to technology careers for those who have historically been underrepresented in the sector. By supporting these students, the trust helps to build a more diverse and representative technology workforce.

For learners with a passion for computing, software, and information technology, the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary represents a valuable opportunity. It offers financial support, a connection to a respected global technology brand, and the chance to study at either a public or private institution. Through this programme, the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust invests in the young people who will help drive South Africa's digital future, ensuring that talented students from a range of backgrounds have the chance to pursue careers in one of the most exciting and important industries of our time.

## About the Provider The Cisco Foundation was established in 1997 and, together with Cisco, partners with nonprofit organisations, non-governmental organisations, and community-based organisations to carry out a wide range of corporate social responsibility programmes. Cisco is one of the world's leading technology companies, known for its work in networking, communications, and the infrastructure that powers the internet. Through its foundation, the company channels some of its strength into making a positive difference in communities around the world. In South Africa, the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust established a bursary programme in 2021, with the specific aim of furthering IT education opportunities for South African students. This relatively recent initiative reflects a clear understanding of the importance of technology skills in the modern economy and a commitment to helping young people gain access to these opportunities. South Africa faces a real shortage of skilled professionals in fields such as computing and software engineering. At the same time, many talented students are unable to pursue these qualifications because of financial barriers. The Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary works to address both of these challenges by funding students who have the ability and the desire to study in technology-related fields but who lack the financial means to do so. A particular strength of the programme is its focus on the missing middle. These are students whose families earn too much to qualify for national funding but too little to comfortably afford university fees. This group often struggles to find support, and the Cisco bursary deliberately targets them, filling an important gap in the funding landscape. The programme also reflects a commitment to transformation and inclusion. Preference is given to equity candidates, helping to widen access to technology careers for those who have historically been underrepresented in the sector. By supporting these students, the trust helps to build a more diverse and representative technology workforce. For learners with a passion for computing, software, and information technology, the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary represents a valuable opportunity. It offers financial support, a connection to a respected global technology brand, and the chance to study at either a public or private institution. Through this programme, the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust invests in the young people who will help drive South Africa's digital future, ensuring that talented students from a range of backgrounds have the chance to pursue careers in one of the most exciting and important industries of our time.

About the Program

The Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary funds studies in information technology and related fields for the 2027 academic year. The programme covers qualifications at NQF level 7 and NQF level 8, focusing on Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, and Software Engineering. These fields were chosen because they are central to the technology industry and to the digital future of South Africa.

The bursary is aimed at students entering their first through to fourth year of study in 2027. The fourth year includes students in BTech programmes at NQF level 7 and Honours programmes at NQF level 8. This means the programme supports students at various stages of their undergraduate journey, helping them progress towards completing their qualifications.

A key focus of the programme is reaching the so-called missing middle students. These are learners whose families earn too much to qualify easily for national funding but too little to afford the full cost of university. To target this group, the bursary requires applicants to have a combined family income of between R350 000 and R600 000 per year. This careful targeting ensures that the funding reaches students who genuinely need support but who often fall through the cracks of other funding schemes.

Applicants must have a strong academic record and demonstrate proven financial need. Preference is given to equity candidates, reflecting the programme's commitment to transformation and widening access to technology careers. Students may study at either private or public institutions, as long as the institution is registered with the relevant education authorities in South Africa.

The bursary is administered by StudyTrust, an experienced bursary administrator that manages the application process and supports students throughout their studies. This partnership ensures that applicants receive proper guidance and that funds are managed responsibly.

The Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust established its bursary programme in 2021, with the aim of furthering IT education opportunities for South African students. By funding studies in computing and software engineering, the programme helps to build the technical talent the country needs while opening doors for students who might otherwise be unable to afford higher education.

For learners with a passion for technology, the programme offers both financial support and a connection to a respected global technology brand, giving them the means to pursue rewarding careers in a fast-growing field.

## About the Program The Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary funds studies in information technology and related fields for the 2027 academic year. The programme covers qualifications at NQF level 7 and NQF level 8, focusing on Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, and Software Engineering. These fields were chosen because they are central to the technology industry and to the digital future of South Africa. The bursary is aimed at students entering their first through to fourth year of study in 2027. The fourth year includes students in BTech programmes at NQF level 7 and Honours programmes at NQF level 8. This means the programme supports students at various stages of their undergraduate journey, helping them progress towards completing their qualifications. A key focus of the programme is reaching the so-called missing middle students. These are learners whose families earn too much to qualify easily for national funding but too little to afford the full cost of university. To target this group, the bursary requires applicants to have a combined family income of between R350 000 and R600 000 per year. This careful targeting ensures that the funding reaches students who genuinely need support but who often fall through the cracks of other funding schemes. Applicants must have a strong academic record and demonstrate proven financial need. Preference is given to equity candidates, reflecting the programme's commitment to transformation and widening access to technology careers. Students may study at either private or public institutions, as long as the institution is registered with the relevant education authorities in South Africa. The bursary is administered by StudyTrust, an experienced bursary administrator that manages the application process and supports students throughout their studies. This partnership ensures that applicants receive proper guidance and that funds are managed responsibly. The Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust established its bursary programme in 2021, with the aim of furthering IT education opportunities for South African students. By funding studies in computing and software engineering, the programme helps to build the technical talent the country needs while opening doors for students who might otherwise be unable to afford higher education. For learners with a passion for technology, the programme offers both financial support and a connection to a respected global technology brand, giving them the means to pursue rewarding careers in a fast-growing field.

Bursary Benefits

The Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary provides financial support to help students pursue qualifications in computing and software engineering. The funding is aimed at easing the burden on missing middle students, who often struggle to find support elsewhere.

Financial support towards the costs of studying an IT-related qualification at NQF level 7 or NQF level 8
Funding available for students from first through to fourth year of study
Support for studies at either private or public institutions registered with the relevant education authorities
A connection to a respected global technology brand committed to furthering IT education

Because the bursary specifically targets the missing middle, it fills an important gap for students whose families earn too much to qualify for national funding but too little to afford university fees. This makes it a valuable opportunity for many learners who might otherwise be overlooked.

Beyond the financial support, recipients benefit from being part of a programme run by an experienced administrator and backed by a respected technology foundation. The focus on equity candidates also reflects a commitment to widening access to technology careers for those who have historically been underrepresented.

## Bursary Benefits The Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary provides financial support to help students pursue qualifications in computing and software engineering. The funding is aimed at easing the burden on missing middle students, who often struggle to find support elsewhere. - **Financial support** towards the costs of studying an IT-related qualification at NQF level 7 or NQF level 8 - Funding available for students from **first through to fourth year** of study - Support for studies at either **private or public institutions** registered with the relevant education authorities - A connection to a respected global technology brand committed to furthering IT education Because the bursary specifically targets the missing middle, it fills an important gap for students whose families earn too much to qualify for national funding but too little to afford university fees. This makes it a valuable opportunity for many learners who might otherwise be overlooked. Beyond the financial support, recipients benefit from being part of a programme run by an experienced administrator and backed by a respected technology foundation. The focus on equity candidates also reflects a commitment to widening access to technology careers for those who have historically been underrepresented.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet all of the following requirements. Failing to satisfy every criterion will result in an application not being considered.

You must be a South African citizen
You must have completed Matric or be currently in Matric
You must be studying or intend to study towards a qualification in one of the listed fields
You must be entering your first to fourth year of study in 2027 (fourth year includes BTech at NQF level 7 and Honours at NQF level 8)
You must be accepted or registered to study at a private or public institution registered with the relevant education authorities in South Africa
You must have a strong academic record
You must have proven financial need, with a combined family income of between R350 000 and R600 000 per year (missing middle students)
Preference will be given to equity candidates

## Eligibility Criteria Applicants must meet all of the following requirements. Failing to satisfy every criterion will result in an application not being considered. - You must be a **South African citizen** - You must have **completed Matric or be currently in Matric** - You must be studying or intend to study towards a qualification in one of the listed fields - You must be entering your **first to fourth year of study in 2027** (fourth year includes BTech at NQF level 7 and Honours at NQF level 8) - You must be accepted or registered to study at a **private or public institution** registered with the relevant education authorities in South Africa - You must have a **strong academic record** - You must have proven financial need, with a combined family income of between **R350 000 and R600 000 per year** (missing middle students) - Preference will be given to **equity candidates**

Required Documents

Submit clear copies of the following supporting documents with your online application. Missing documents may lead to disqualification, so prepare them carefully before you begin.

A clear photograph (head and shoulders)
Your Matric certificate or Matric latest results
Your full academic record, if currently studying
Proof of acceptance or registration at a tertiary institution
Proof of household income for your parents or guardians (payslips if employed, an affidavit if unemployed or self-employed, financial statements or bank statements if they own a business, or a SASSA letter if grants are received)

Make sure all copies are clear, legible, and properly certified where required. Because the bursary targets the missing middle, your proof of income is especially important, so ensure it clearly reflects your family's financial situation.

## Required Documents Submit clear copies of the following supporting documents with your online application. Missing documents may lead to disqualification, so prepare them carefully before you begin. - A clear **photograph** (head and shoulders) - Your **Matric certificate** or Matric latest results - Your **full academic record**, if currently studying - **Proof of acceptance or registration** at a tertiary institution - **Proof of household income** for your parents or guardians (payslips if employed, an affidavit if unemployed or self-employed, financial statements or bank statements if they own a business, or a SASSA letter if grants are received) Make sure all copies are clear, legible, and properly certified where required. Because the bursary targets the missing middle, your proof of income is especially important, so ensure it clearly reflects your family's financial situation.

How to Apply

Applications for the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary must be submitted online through the administrator's website. Follow these steps to apply successfully:

Gather all your required documents and save clear, certified copies so you can upload them easily.
Read the bursary administrator's instructions page carefully before you begin, as it explains the process in detail.
Visit the online application portal for the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary.
Complete the online application form accurately, providing all requested personal and academic details.
When asked how you heard about the bursary, enter the referral information as requested on the form.
Upload all your supporting documents, making sure each file is clear and complete.
Review your entire application to confirm there are no errors or missing information.
Submit your application before the closing date.

Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted, so it is wise to apply well in advance. Because the bursary targets the missing middle, make sure your proof of household income is accurate and clearly shows your family's financial situation. Keep a copy of your confirmation for your records.

## How to Apply Applications for the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary must be submitted online through the administrator's website. Follow these steps to apply successfully: 1. Gather all your required documents and save clear, certified copies so you can upload them easily. 2. Read the bursary administrator's instructions page carefully before you begin, as it explains the process in detail. 3. Visit the online application portal for the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary. 4. Complete the online application form accurately, providing all requested personal and academic details. 5. When asked how you heard about the bursary, enter the referral information as requested on the form. 6. Upload all your supporting documents, making sure each file is clear and complete. 7. Review your entire application to confirm there are no errors or missing information. 8. Submit your application before the closing date. Applications submitted after the deadline will not be accepted, so it is wise to apply well in advance. Because the bursary targets the missing middle, make sure your proof of household income is accurate and clearly shows your family's financial situation. Keep a copy of your confirmation for your records.

Tips for Success

A strong bursary application is well prepared, complete, and honest. The following tips can help you give yourself the best chance with the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary.

Confirm your income falls in range. The bursary targets the missing middle, with a family income between R350 000 and R600 000 per year. Make sure your household income falls within this range before applying.
Prepare proof of income carefully. This is one of the most important documents. Make sure payslips, affidavits, or bank statements are recent and clearly show your family's financial situation.
Check your field and year of study. The bursary covers specific IT-related fields for students from first to fourth year. Confirm that you qualify before applying.
Secure proof of acceptance or registration. Make sure you have proof of your acceptance or registration at a recognised institution, whether public or private.
Apply early. Online systems can become busy near the deadline. Submitting early helps you avoid last-minute technical problems.
Get documents certified in advance. Certified copies take time to arrange, so plan a visit to a police station, post office, or Commissioner of Oaths ahead of time.
Read the administrator's instructions. The administrator provides a guide that explains the process. Reading it carefully helps you avoid common mistakes.
Keep your academic record up to date. Make sure your results are accurate and, where required, on official letterheads.
Proofread your application. Errors and missing fields create a poor impression. Review everything before submitting, or ask someone to check it for you.
Be truthful. Provide only accurate information. Dishonesty can lead to disqualification and damage your reputation.

Taking the time to prepare a complete and accurate application shows commitment and helps you stand out among many other candidates competing for limited funding.

## Tips for Success A strong bursary application is well prepared, complete, and honest. The following tips can help you give yourself the best chance with the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary. - **Confirm your income falls in range.** The bursary targets the missing middle, with a family income between R350 000 and R600 000 per year. Make sure your household income falls within this range before applying. - **Prepare proof of income carefully.** This is one of the most important documents. Make sure payslips, affidavits, or bank statements are recent and clearly show your family's financial situation. - **Check your field and year of study.** The bursary covers specific IT-related fields for students from first to fourth year. Confirm that you qualify before applying. - **Secure proof of acceptance or registration.** Make sure you have proof of your acceptance or registration at a recognised institution, whether public or private. - **Apply early.** Online systems can become busy near the deadline. Submitting early helps you avoid last-minute technical problems. - **Get documents certified in advance.** Certified copies take time to arrange, so plan a visit to a police station, post office, or Commissioner of Oaths ahead of time. - **Read the administrator's instructions.** The administrator provides a guide that explains the process. Reading it carefully helps you avoid common mistakes. - **Keep your academic record up to date.** Make sure your results are accurate and, where required, on official letterheads. - **Proofread your application.** Errors and missing fields create a poor impression. Review everything before submitting, or ask someone to check it for you. - **Be truthful.** Provide only accurate information. Dishonesty can lead to disqualification and damage your reputation. Taking the time to prepare a complete and accurate application shows commitment and helps you stand out among many other candidates competing for limited funding.

Career Prospects

The fields funded by the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary lead to careers in technology, one of the most dynamic and in-demand sectors of the modern economy. Graduates are well positioned to enter a digital world where computing and software skills are highly valued.

Graduates in Computer Science can pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, and IT consultants. The skills learned in this field are central to almost every industry, from banking and retail to healthcare, government, and entertainment. As organisations continue to digitise their operations, the demand for skilled computer scientists keeps growing.

Those who study Software Engineering specialise in designing, building, and maintaining software systems. Software engineers are essential to creating the applications and platforms that people and businesses rely on every day. This is a highly sought-after skill, and software engineers enjoy strong career prospects both locally and internationally.

Graduates in Computer Engineering combine knowledge of hardware and software, opening doors to careers in systems design, embedded systems, network engineering, and product development. These professionals build and maintain the technology infrastructure that modern organisations depend on.

Those who study Information Technology can work as network administrators, database managers, cybersecurity specialists, and IT support professionals. IT skills are essential to keeping organisations running smoothly and securely, and there is a constant need for people who can manage and protect digital systems.

The technology sector offers strong prospects for growth and specialisation. Professionals can move into senior technical roles, project management, or leadership positions over time. The skills are also highly portable, meaning graduates can pursue opportunities not only across South Africa but around the world. Many technology professionals also use their skills to start their own businesses, developing software, apps, or digital services.

Beyond the specific job titles, being supported by a respected global technology foundation can add value to a graduate's profile. It signals that the student has been recognised for their academic ability and potential, which can be helpful when seeking employment after graduation.

By supporting students in computing and software fields, the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary helps to build a generation of technology professionals who can contribute to South Africa's digital economy. For ambitious young people, these careers offer not only stability and good earning potential but also the chance to be part of an industry that is constantly evolving and shaping the future.

## Career Prospects The fields funded by the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary lead to careers in technology, one of the most dynamic and in-demand sectors of the modern economy. Graduates are well positioned to enter a digital world where computing and software skills are highly valued. Graduates in **Computer Science** can pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, and IT consultants. The skills learned in this field are central to almost every industry, from banking and retail to healthcare, government, and entertainment. As organisations continue to digitise their operations, the demand for skilled computer scientists keeps growing. Those who study **Software Engineering** specialise in designing, building, and maintaining software systems. Software engineers are essential to creating the applications and platforms that people and businesses rely on every day. This is a highly sought-after skill, and software engineers enjoy strong career prospects both locally and internationally. Graduates in **Computer Engineering** combine knowledge of hardware and software, opening doors to careers in systems design, embedded systems, network engineering, and product development. These professionals build and maintain the technology infrastructure that modern organisations depend on. Those who study **Information Technology** can work as network administrators, database managers, cybersecurity specialists, and IT support professionals. IT skills are essential to keeping organisations running smoothly and securely, and there is a constant need for people who can manage and protect digital systems. The technology sector offers strong prospects for growth and specialisation. Professionals can move into senior technical roles, project management, or leadership positions over time. The skills are also highly portable, meaning graduates can pursue opportunities not only across South Africa but around the world. Many technology professionals also use their skills to start their own businesses, developing software, apps, or digital services. Beyond the specific job titles, being supported by a respected global technology foundation can add value to a graduate's profile. It signals that the student has been recognised for their academic ability and potential, which can be helpful when seeking employment after graduation. By supporting students in computing and software fields, the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary helps to build a generation of technology professionals who can contribute to South Africa's digital economy. For ambitious young people, these careers offer not only stability and good earning potential but also the chance to be part of an industry that is constantly evolving and shaping the future.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary?

South African citizens who have completed Matric or are currently in Matric, who are studying or intend to study one of the listed fields, entering first to fourth year in 2027, with a family income between R350 000 and R600 000 per year, may apply.

What fields of study does the bursary cover?

The bursary covers Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, and Software Engineering at NQF level 7 or NQF level 8.

What is the income requirement?

The bursary targets missing middle students, with a combined family income of between R350 000 and R600 000 per year.

Can I study at a private institution?

Yes. You may study at a private or public institution, as long as it is registered with the relevant education authorities in South Africa.

When is the closing date?

Applications close on 30 September 2026. Late applications will not be accepted.

How do I apply?

Applications are submitted online through the administrator's website. You will need to complete the form and upload your supporting documents.

Which years of study are covered?

The bursary supports students from first through to fourth year, where fourth year includes BTech and Honours programmes.

Is preference given to any group?

Yes. Preference is given to equity candidates.

Who administers the bursary?

The bursary is administered by StudyTrust, which manages the application process and supports recipients throughout their studies.

## Frequently Asked Questions ## Who can apply for the Cisco Charitable Foundation Trust Bursary? South African citizens who have completed Matric or are currently in Matric, who are studying or intend to study one of the listed fields, entering first to fourth year in 2027, with a family income between R350 000 and R600 000 per year, may apply. ## What fields of study does the bursary cover? The bursary covers Computer Engineering, Computer Science, Information Technology, and Software Engineering at NQF level 7 or NQF level 8. ## What is the income requirement? The bursary targets missing middle students, with a combined family income of between R350 000 and R600 000 per year. ## Can I study at a private institution? Yes. You may study at a private or public institution, as long as it is registered with the relevant education authorities in South Africa. ## When is the closing date? Applications close on **30 September 2026**. Late applications will not be accepted. ## How do I apply? Applications are submitted online through the administrator's website. You will need to complete the form and upload your supporting documents. ## Which years of study are covered? The bursary supports students from first through to fourth year, where fourth year includes BTech and Honours programmes. ## Is preference given to any group? Yes. Preference is given to equity candidates. ## Who administers the bursary? The bursary is administered by StudyTrust, which manages the application process and supports recipients throughout their studies.

Applications Closing

Applications close on 30 September 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted, so apply early to make sure your application is considered.

About the Organization

StudyTrust (bursary administrator) Tel: 011 403 1632 Email: apply@StudyTrust.org.za