Sage Bursary 2027

## About the Provider Sage is a global leader in business software, best known for its integrated accounting, payroll, and payment systems. The company develops software that helps small and medium-sized businesses manage their finances, run their operations, and grow with confidence, while also offering expertise and solutions for larger organisations. Over the past two decades, Sage South Africa has established itself as a local leader in business software, supported by the strength of the global Sage brand. Sage employs more than 11 000 colleagues who support millions of entrepreneurs across more than 20 countries. These business owners form the backbone of the global economy, and Sage sees its role as helping them succeed through reliable, accessible technology. This focus on enabling enterprise and entrepreneurship sits at the heart of the company's identity. As a technology company, Sage understands the importance of building skills in fields such as computer science, information technology, and finance. The South African economy faces a shortage of qualified professionals in these areas, and companies like Sage rely on a steady pipeline of skilled graduates. Investing in education is therefore both a social commitment and a practical business need. The Sage Bursary reflects this commitment. Through it, the company supports talented and financially deserving South African students who wish to study towards qualifications in technology and commerce. The bursary is administered by StudyTrust, an experienced bursary administrator that manages the application and selection process on Sage's behalf. For many young people, especially those from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, the cost of tertiary education is a major barrier. The Sage Bursary aims to remove that barrier, giving students the chance to pursue their ambitions and build careers in some of the most in-demand fields in the modern economy. By doing so, Sage helps develop the kind of talent that will drive innovation and economic growth in South Africa for years to come.

## About the Program The Sage Bursary Programme provides funding for undergraduate degree studies for the 2027 academic year. It is aimed at South African students who wish to pursue careers in technology and commerce, and it places a strong emphasis on supporting previously disadvantaged individuals and students living with disabilities. The bursary funds studies in the following fields: Accounting and Finance (BCom), Computer Engineering, Computer Science, and Information Technology. These fields are central to the digital economy and to the kind of work that Sage and similar companies depend on. Students with disabilities are given even broader scope, as they may study towards an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in any field. The programme is designed to support students throughout their qualification, from first year to final year, provided they continue to meet the academic and other requirements. It is open to learners who are currently in Matric as well as those who have already completed Matric and are studying or intend to study at a recognised and accredited public tertiary institution in South Africa. A distinctive feature of the Sage Bursary is its focus on inclusivity. Preference is given to students with disabilities, reflecting the company's commitment to creating opportunities for groups that have historically been underrepresented in technology and finance careers. This makes the bursary an important avenue for students who may face additional challenges in accessing higher education. The bursary also takes a thoughtful approach to financial need. It targets the so-called missing middle, supporting students whose household income falls between R350 000 and R500 000 per year. Importantly, students whose household income is below R350 000 are still considered, provided they have applied for NSFAS funding. Those who applied for NSFAS but did not receive it may also apply for the Sage Bursary. This ensures that students who fall through the cracks of other funding systems still have a route to support. By combining financial assistance with a focus on scarce skills and inclusivity, the Sage Bursary helps build a more diverse and capable workforce. Recipients are not only supported financially but are also positioned to enter fields where their skills will be in high demand.

## Bursary Benefits The Sage Bursary provides meaningful financial support to cover the major costs of tertiary study, up to a capped amount. This helps ensure that students can focus on their academic work without the constant worry of how to pay for their education. - **Tuition fees** to cover the cost of your studies - **Stationery and books** to support your academic work - **Accommodation** in a university residence or in private accommodation - Cover for **current fees and outstanding student debt**, which can be a significant relief for students who have fallen behind on payments The inclusion of cover for outstanding student debt is particularly valuable, as unpaid fees often prevent students from registering or receiving their results. By addressing this, the bursary helps students stay on track to complete their qualifications. The comprehensive nature of the funding means that recipients can dedicate themselves fully to their studies, knowing that the essential costs of attending university are taken care of.

## Eligibility Criteria Applicants must satisfy all of the following requirements. Failing to meet any of the criteria will result in your application not being considered. - You must be a **South African citizen** - You must be a **previously disadvantaged individual (PDI)** - You must currently be in Matric or have completed Matric - You must be studying or intend to study towards an undergraduate qualification in one of the listed fields in 2027, from first to final year - You must be studying or have been accepted to study at a **recognised and accredited public tertiary institution** in South Africa - **Current Matric students:** you must have achieved a minimum of 75% for Mathematics and Physical Science - **Current university students:** you must have consistently achieved a minimum overall average of 65% - **Students with a disability:** you may study towards an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in any field - You must have a total household income of between **R350 000 and R500 000 per year**. If your household income is less than R350 000 per year, you must have applied for NSFAS funding (if you applied for NSFAS but did not receive it, you may still apply) - Preference will be given to students with disabilities

## Required Documents Submit clear copies of the following supporting documents along with your online application. If any items are missing, your application may be disqualified. - A clear **photograph** (head and shoulders) - **South African ID document** (certified copy) - **Grade 11 final results and Matric June results**, if currently in Matric - **Matric certificate**, if you have completed Matric - **Full academic record and latest available results** (June 2026 examination results or progress report) - **Proof of parents' or guardians' household income** (latest payslips if employed, affidavit if unemployed, affidavit stating annual income if self-employed, recent financial statements or bank statements if they own a business, or a SASSA letter if applicable) - **Parents' death certificates**, if applicable - A **court letter or affidavit** regarding child support, if your parents are divorced or separated - **Proof of disability**, if applicable (a doctor's medical report or note)

## How to Apply The Sage Bursary is administered by StudyTrust, and applications must be submitted online. Follow these steps carefully: 1. Confirm that you meet all the eligibility criteria before you begin, paying close attention to the academic and household income requirements. 2. Gather and prepare clear, certified copies of all the required supporting documents. 3. Read the StudyTrust bursary applications page thoroughly, as it explains how the application system works. 4. Visit the official Sage bursary application portal hosted by StudyTrust. 5. Create your account or log in, then complete the online application form with accurate personal and academic details. 6. When asked how you heard about the bursary, enter the requested referral information. 7. Upload all your supporting documents, making sure each file is clear and complete. 8. Review your entire application to confirm there are no missing fields or errors. 9. Submit your application before the closing date. Applications received after the deadline will not be accepted, so it is wise to complete and submit yours well in advance. Keep a record of your submission confirmation in case you need to refer to it later.

## Tips for Success A strong bursary application can make all the difference in a competitive selection process. Use the following tips to give yourself the best chance with the Sage Bursary. - **Confirm your eligibility first.** The income bands and academic requirements are specific. Make sure you genuinely qualify before investing time in the application. - **Prepare your documents early.** Certified copies, income proof, and academic records take time to gather. Starting early helps you avoid a last-minute scramble. - **Be accurate about household income.** This bursary targets specific income bands, so provide honest and clear proof of income. If your household earns less than R350 000, remember to include proof that you applied for NSFAS. - **Highlight your academic strengths.** Strong marks in Mathematics and Physical Science are essential for Matric applicants. Make sure your results are clearly presented. - **If you have a disability, include proof.** The bursary gives preference to students with disabilities, so a doctor's report can strengthen your application and open up broader study options. - **Read the StudyTrust instructions carefully.** Following the administrator's guidance closely helps you avoid common mistakes. - **Use a clear, professional photo.** A simple head-and-shoulders photo with a plain background is best. - **Double-check every upload.** Blurry or incomplete documents can lead to disqualification. Review each file before submitting. - **Proofread your application.** Spelling and grammar errors create a poor impression. Ask someone you trust to review your form. - **Submit early.** Technical problems can occur close to the deadline, so give yourself a buffer. Taking the time to prepare a complete and accurate application shows the selection committee that you are serious and organised.

## Career Prospects The fields funded by the Sage Bursary lead to some of the most sought-after careers in the modern economy. Graduates in these areas are in high demand both in South Africa and internationally. Graduates in **Computer Science** can pursue careers as software developers, systems analysts, data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, and IT consultants. As businesses across every sector become more reliant on technology, the demand for skilled computer scientists continues to grow. These professionals build the software and systems that power everything from banking to e-commerce. Graduates in **Computer Engineering** combine hardware and software knowledge, working on the design of computer systems, networks, and embedded devices. They can find roles in technology companies, telecommunications, manufacturing, and research, designing the systems that underpin the digital world. Graduates in **Information Technology** support the systems that organisations depend on every day. Careers include network administration, IT support, systems management, database administration, and cloud computing. IT professionals keep businesses running smoothly and securely, making them indispensable in almost every industry. Graduates in **Accounting and Finance** are essential to the financial health of organisations. They can become accountants, auditors, financial analysts, financial managers, and business advisors. With software increasingly central to finance, professionals who understand both accounting and technology are especially valuable, and a company like Sage demonstrates how closely these worlds are linked. Beyond technical skills, students supported by a company-linked bursary often gain exposure to the working world and an understanding of how their studies apply in practice. This can give them an advantage when entering the job market. The skills developed through these qualifications are highly transferable, meaning graduates can adapt to new roles and industries as their careers progress. By choosing one of these fields, students position themselves for stable, rewarding, and future-proof careers.

## Frequently Asked Questions ## Who can apply for the Sage Bursary? South African citizens who are previously disadvantaged individuals, currently in or having completed Matric, and studying or intending to study one of the funded fields at a recognised public institution may apply, provided they meet the academic and income requirements. ## What fields of study does the bursary cover? It covers Accounting and Finance (BCom), Computer Engineering, Computer Science, and Information Technology. Students with disabilities may study any field. ## What does the bursary cover? The bursary covers tuition fees, stationery, books, and accommodation up to a capped amount. It also covers current fees and outstanding student debt. ## What are the income requirements? Your household income should be between R350 000 and R500 000 per year. If it is below R350 000, you must have applied for NSFAS. If you applied for NSFAS but did not receive it, you may still apply. ## When is the closing date? The closing date is **30 September 2026**. Late applications are not accepted. ## How do I apply? Applications are submitted online through the StudyTrust portal. Read the StudyTrust bursary applications page before you begin. ## Does the bursary favour students with disabilities? Yes. Preference is given to students with disabilities, and they may study towards a degree in any field at undergraduate or postgraduate level. ## What academic results do I need? Matric applicants need at least 75% for Mathematics and Physical Science. University students need a consistent overall average of at least 65%.

## Applications Closing The Sage Bursary closes on **30 September 2026**. Applications submitted after this date will not be accepted, so apply early to be safe.

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