Compensation Fund Bursary Scheme 2026 – A Path to Education and Employment
Compensation Fund Bursary Scheme 2026 is opening its doors for applications today. If you or a loved one has faced a workplace injury or illness, this bursary could turn a difficult situation into a bright future.
What is this bursary about?
The Department of Employment and Labour’s Compensation Fund is inviting students to apply for a bursary that will support learning in high‑demand fields such as finance, engineering, ICT, and health sciences. The money can cover tuition, study materials, accommodation and a monthly stipend, giving you the chance to finish a qualification that opens doors to jobs or even your own business.
Who can apply?
Group 1 – COID beneficiaries with permanent disability (PWD)
- South African citizen
- Currently unemployed and of working age
- Beneficiary of a COID pension with a permanent disability caused by a work injury or disease
- Intending to study or already studying in an approved field
- Accepted at a recognised TVET College, CET College or higher‑education institution
- Aiming to improve skills for employment or self‑employment
Group 2 – Dependants of COID beneficiaries
- South African citizen
- Aged 17 – 35 years
- Dependent of a COID beneficiary with permanent disability or of a fatally injured worker
- Intending to study or already studying in an approved field
- Accepted at a recognised TVET College, CET College or higher‑education institution
What you will get
The bursary can cover:
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed study materials
- Accommodation (where available)
- Monthly stipend
It is awarded for one academic year at a time but can be renewed for the full length of your qualification if you maintain good academic performance and funding is available.
Fields covered include:
- Accounting / Financial Science
- Actuarial Science
- Economics / Econometrics
- Engineering
- Health and Clinical Sciences
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- Marine and Maritime Studies
- Quality Control and Environmental Health
- Mathematics and Science Education
- Statistics and Data Science
Advanced programmes such as an Advanced Diploma or Honours in Accounting Science (CTA Stream), Chiropractic, Medical Orthotist and Prosthetist are also eligible, provided you study at a recognised public university or approved institution.
How to apply – step by step
- Download the Compensation Fund Bursary Application Form for 2026.
- Fill in all details carefully. Make sure you use the correct headings for your group (Group 1 or Group 2).
- Gather the required documents (see below). If you are missing any, your application may be rejected.
- Submit the application in one of the following ways:
- Email: CFexternalbursaries@labour.gov.za – use the subject line “COID Bursary 2026”.
- Hand delivery: Compensation House, Corner of Hamilton & Soutpansberg Road, Prinshof, Pretoria.
- Wait for feedback. If you haven’t heard within two months after 31 March 2026, your application is likely unsuccessful.
Documents you’ll need
Both groups must provide a set of documents. If anything is missing, your application could be disqualified.
Group 1 documents
- Certified copy of South African ID
- COID pension or claim number
- Latest academic transcript (if currently studying)
- Proof of acceptance from an approved institution
- Tuition fee quotation (if applicable)
- Prescribed learning materials quotation
- Proof of residence
- Proof of disability (verified by a healthcare professional or disability office)
Group 2 documents
- Certified copy of applicant ID
- Certified copy of ID or birth certificate showing COID beneficiary details
- Parents or guardians’ ID copies or death certificates (if applicable)
- COID pension or claim number
- Matric June results (if currently in matric)
- Latest academic transcript (if currently studying)
- Proof of acceptance from an institution
- Tuition fee quotation
- Prescribed learning materials quotation
- Proof of residence
- Proof of disability (if applicable)
- Pre‑entry assessment (for apprenticeship applicants)
- Proof of income (payslip, affidavit, SASSA grant proof, pension proof or other verification)
Practical tips to boost your application
From experience, most successful candidates:
- Apply early – the closing date is 31 March 2026, and many spots fill fast.
- Double‑check that every form field is filled and every document is attached.
- Keep certified copies of all documents; photocopies may be rejected.
- If you’re applying for a programme you haven’t started yet, finish your application for that programme before you send your bursary application.
- Ask a family member or a mentor to review your application; a fresh set of eyes can spot errors.
Many applicants struggle with the paperwork, but staying organized and following the checklist above makes the process smoother.
Next steps
Ready to take control of your future? Download the application form, gather your documents, and send it before 31 March 2026. If you need help, call 012 319 9264, 012 319 5774 or 012 319 9124, or email cfexternalbursaries@labour.gov.za. Good luck – this bursary could be the stepping stone you need to build a brighter career.
Mzansi 4 Youth Tip
When applying for bursaries that need a proof of acceptance, always apply to your study programme first. Prepare certified documents early so your bursary application is ready by the deadline. Good luck!