The Gauteng City Region Academy has opened applications for the GCRA Bursaries 2026. The bursary programme supports undergraduate and postgraduate studies at accredited institutions of higher learning in South Africa. The programme targets South African youth, with preference given to applicants residing in Gauteng.
Programme Overview
- Bursary provider: Gauteng City Region Academy
- Programme: GCRA Bursary Programme 2026
- Study level: Undergraduate and Postgraduate
- Fields of study: All fields
- Location: South Africa
- Target group: South African youth aged 18 to 35
- Preference: Youth residing in Gauteng
- Closing date: 28 February 2026
About the Gauteng City Region Academy
The Gauteng City Region Academy is an agency of the Gauteng Provincial Government focused on developing skills and talent within the province. The academy provides bursaries, scholarships, and skills programmes aimed at supporting access to education and improving youth participation in the economy.
The bursary programme forms part of GCRA’s strategy to build a skilled workforce by supporting students from matric level through postgraduate studies.
About the GCRA Bursary Programme
The GCRA Bursary Programme provides funding for students studying at accredited institutions of higher learning in South Africa. The bursary supports both new entrants into higher education and students who are already registered for undergraduate or postgraduate programmes.
Funding is provided subject to conditions set out in the bursary contract. Recipients are expected to comply with academic performance and reporting requirements throughout the funding period.
What the Bursary Covers
The bursary covers the full cost of study, subject to the bursary contract conditions.
Funding may include:
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed learning materials
- Other approved study related costs
Specific funding conditions are communicated to successful applicants in the bursary agreement.
Who Can Apply
The bursary programme is open to qualifying youth who meet the eligibility criteria.
Applications are open to:
- Students who completed matric and reside in Gauteng
- Students accepted for undergraduate studies at an accredited institution
- Students currently registered for undergraduate studies
- Students accepted for postgraduate studies at an accredited institution
Proof of Gauteng residence is required for applicants claiming provincial preference.
Automatically Qualifying Applicants
The following applicants automatically qualify for consideration but must still complete the full online application.
- Top achievers from Gauteng schools
- Top learner from no fee paying schools in Gauteng
- Top three learners from LSEN schools in Gauteng
Automatic qualification does not remove the requirement to submit supporting documents or complete the application process.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a GCRA bursary award, applicants must meet all requirements listed below.
- South African citizen by birth
- Between 18 and 35 years old
- Preference given to youth residing in Gauteng
- Accepted or registered at an accredited institution of higher learning
Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee funding, as selection remains competitive.
Required Documents
Applicants must prepare and upload all required documents during the online application process.
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Proof of Gauteng residence such as a utility bill or letter from a ward councillor
- Certified Matric certificate or latest academic results
- Proof of income from parent or guardian or sworn affidavit
- Motivation letter not exceeding two pages
- Proof of registration or acceptance letter from an accredited institution
- Disability or medical report where applicable
Applications submitted without required documentation will not be considered.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official GCRA Bursary Portal.
Follow the steps below to apply:
- Register an account on the GCRA online portal
- Log in using your registered details
- Complete the application form with personal and academic information
- Upload all required supporting documents
- Review and submit your application before the closing date
NB. Applicants are responsible for ensuring that all information submitted is accurate and complete. Incomplete applications or late submissions reduce the chances of selection.
Applicants should keep copies of all submitted documents for reference.
