The Monocle Foundation is inviting applications for its 2027 Bursary Programme, providing comprehensive financial and development support to eligible South African students.
The bursary is aimed specifically at previously disadvantaged black female students who are currently studying towards an undergraduate or postgraduate qualification and are in their second year of study or higher.
The programme supports students with limited to no alternative funding and covers a range of education-related expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, study materials, a laptop and subsistence support.
Students can apply from fields including Finance, Mathematics, Accounting, Economics, Computer Science, Engineering and Medicine, although the Foundation states that other fields may also be considered.
Applications for the 2027 bursary programme close on 15 November 2026, according to the current bursary listing.
Monocle Foundation Bursary 2027 – Quick Overview
| Bursary Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Organisation | Monocle Foundation Trust |
| Academic Year | 2027 |
| Target Group | Previously disadvantaged black female students |
| Citizenship | South African |
| Study Level | Undergraduate and postgraduate |
| Minimum Study Year | Second year or higher |
| Institution | Recognised and accredited South African tertiary institution |
| Fields | Finance, Mathematics, Accounting, Economics, Computer Science, Engineering, Medicine and others |
| Financial Need | Limited to no alternative funding |
| Tuition | Covered |
| Accommodation | Covered |
| Laptop | Provided |
| Study Materials | Allowance provided |
| Subsistence | Allowance provided |
| Career Support | Career counselling |
| Additional Training | Free MS Office course |
| Closing Date | 15 November 2026 |
| Application | Online |
The official Monocle Foundation information confirms that the programme is intended for black female students in their second year or higher who have limited to no funding.
What Is the Monocle Foundation Bursary?
The Monocle Foundation is an educational trust established to support tertiary education for previously disadvantaged black women.
The Foundation focuses on helping students overcome financial barriers while also providing development opportunities beyond simply paying university fees.
Its support includes education funding, access to resources, career counselling and additional skills development.
The Foundation was established in 2014 and forms part of Monocle’s broader commitment to education, personal development and social impact.
Who Can Apply for the Monocle Foundation Bursary 2027?
Applicants must meet the Foundation’s eligibility requirements.
You should:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be a black female.
- Be previously disadvantaged.
- Have completed Grade 12 / Matric.
- Be studying towards an undergraduate or postgraduate qualification.
- Be in your second year of study or higher.
- Study at a recognised and accredited tertiary institution in South Africa.
- Have limited to no funding towards your education.
- Not be receiving another bursary.
The official Foundation page specifically identifies black female South African students in their second year or higher as the target group.
Important: First-Year Students Are Not the Main Target
The Monocle Foundation bursary is not intended for students entering university for the first time.
Applicants must currently be in their second year of study or higher.
This applies to students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
Students who have not yet started tertiary education should therefore look for bursaries specifically aimed at first-year applicants.
Fields of Study Covered
The Foundation states that it supports students across several fields.
The listed fields include:
- Finance
- Mathematics
- Accounting
- Economics
- Computer Science
- Engineering
- Medicine
The Foundation states that these fields are not exhaustive, meaning other fields may also be considered.
This gives students outside the main listed disciplines an opportunity to apply, although applicants should understand that funding remains subject to the Foundation’s selection process.
What Does the Monocle Foundation Bursary Cover?
One of the major advantages of the programme is its comprehensive support package.
Successful beneficiaries can receive assistance with:
Tuition Fees
The bursary covers tuition fees, helping students continue their studies without carrying the full cost of university or other approved tertiary education.
Accommodation
Accommodation expenses are included in the bursary support.
This can be particularly important for students studying away from their family homes.
Laptop
Successful beneficiaries receive a laptop to support their academic work.
Access to a computer can be especially valuable for students who need to complete assignments, research, presentations and online learning.
Books and Study Materials
The programme provides a book and study material allowance.
This helps students access the resources required for their courses.
Subsistence Allowance
Beneficiaries also receive a subsistence allowance as part of the support package.
The official information does not state a fixed rand amount for the allowance.
Career Counselling
The Foundation also provides career counselling.
This gives beneficiaries support beyond their academic funding and can help them think about their career direction and professional development.
MS Office Course
Successful students also receive access to a free Microsoft Office course.
This can help strengthen practical workplace skills that are useful across many careers.
The Foundation confirms all of these benefits on its official bursary page.
Is There a Bursary Amount?
The Monocle Foundation does not publish one fixed annual rand amount for the bursary.
Instead, the programme provides support for specified education and living expenses, including:
- Tuition
- Accommodation
- Books and study materials
- Laptop
- Subsistence
Applicants are also required to provide a breakdown of the funds they require for 2027, including tuition, study support and books, accommodation and subsistence.
Therefore, applicants should not rely on unofficial websites claiming that every beneficiary receives the same fixed amount.
Financial Need Is Important
The bursary is intended for students who have limited to no funding for their education.
Applicants should clearly explain their financial circumstances in their application and motivation letter.
The Foundation wants to support students who require financial assistance to continue their studies.
If you already have another bursary covering your education, you may not meet the eligibility requirements.
Documents Required
Applicants must submit a complete application with all the required supporting documents.
The current application listing requires:
1. Motivation Letter
A letter addressed to the Trustees of The Monocle Foundation Trust.
The letter should include:
- Your personal background
- Your field of study
- Your career ambitions
- Your motivation for applying for the bursary
This letter is an important part of the application because it gives the Trustees an opportunity to understand your circumstances and goals.
2. Latest CV
Submit an updated CV containing your:
- Personal details
- Education
- Academic background
- Relevant experience
- Skills
- Achievements
- Career interests
3. Certified South African ID
Provide a certified copy of your South African identity document.
4. Academic Record
Submit your latest academic record.
The record must be:
Up to date and stamped by the university.
5. Graduate Degree
Graduates applying for postgraduate studies should provide a copy of their relevant graduate degree.
6. Grade 12 Certificate
Submit a copy of your Grade 12 academic certificate.
7. 2027 Funding Breakdown
Applicants must provide a breakdown of the funding required for 2027.
This should cover areas such as:
- Tuition fees
- Study support
- Books
- Accommodation
- Subsistence
The official application listing specifically requires this breakdown.
How to Write the Motivation Letter
Your motivation letter should do more than simply say that you need money.
Explain:
Your Background
Briefly describe who you are, your academic journey and your current circumstances.
Your Studies
Explain what you are studying, which year you are in and why you chose the field.
Your Career Goals
Tell the Trustees what career you want to pursue after completing your qualification.
Why You Need the Bursary
Explain your financial situation honestly and why additional funding is necessary.
Why You Should Be Selected
Highlight your academic performance, determination, achievements, leadership, community involvement or other qualities that demonstrate your potential.
Keep the letter clear, personal and specific.
Monocle Foundation Bursary Selection Process
The Foundation does not simply award funding immediately after receiving an application.
The official process includes several stages.
Stage 1: Screening
Applicants may undergo a telephone screening with the Trust Administrator.
Stage 2: Meet and Greet
Shortlisted candidates may participate in a personal meeting with the Trust Administrator.
This gives the Foundation an opportunity to get to know applicants better.
Stage 3: Trustee Interview
Candidates may then participate in a one-on-one interview with one of the Trustees.
The interview allows the Trustees to better understand the applicant and assess their suitability for the programme.
Stage 4: Finalisation
The Trustees provide confirmation regarding whether an applicant has been successful.
The current Monocle Foundation information confirms this four-stage application process.
What Are the Bursary Obligations?
The Monocle Foundation states that beneficiaries:
- Do not have to repay the bursary.
- Are not required to work back the funding after completing their studies.
- Must provide regular updates about their studies and academic progress.
- Must provide their final academic results to the Trust.
- Are encouraged to provide feedback about where they begin their careers.
This means the bursary does not operate like a student loan or a work-back agreement.
When Will Successful Applicants Be Selected?
According to the current application listing, candidates will be shortlisted by the Trustees and contacted during November 2026.
Successful applicants are expected to be selected before mid-December 2026.
The listing also states that all applicants will receive feedback on the outcome of their applications.
How to Apply for the Monocle Foundation Bursary 2027
Applications must be submitted online through the Monocle Foundation’s application platform.
Applications must be submitted online at: Monocle Foundation Bursary 2027
Before submitting your application:
- Confirm that you meet the eligibility requirements.
- Prepare your motivation letter.
- Update your CV.
- Obtain a certified copy of your ID.
- Request your latest stamped academic record.
- Prepare your Grade 12 certificate.
- Prepare your graduate degree if applying for postgraduate studies.
- Calculate your expected 2027 education and living costs.
- Prepare a clear breakdown of the funds you require.
- Upload all required documents.
- Review your application carefully.
- Submit before 15 November 2026.
The official Monocle Foundation page also provides an application route and confirms that candidates are shortlisted and assessed through the Foundation’s selection process.
Application Checklist
Before submitting, make sure you have:
- South African citizenship
- Black female eligibility
- Completed Grade 12
- Second year of study or higher
- Undergraduate or postgraduate qualification
- Recognised and accredited South African institution
- Limited to no alternative funding
- No other bursary funding
- Motivation letter
- Updated CV
- Certified ID copy
- Current university-stamped academic record
- Grade 12 certificate
- Graduate degree, if applicable
- 2027 funding breakdown
- Complete online application
- Submission before 15 November 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the Monocle Foundation Bursary?
The bursary targets previously disadvantaged black female South African students who are studying in their second year or higher and have limited to no funding.
Can first-year students apply?
No. The Foundation specifically targets students who are in their second year of study or higher.
Can postgraduate students apply?
Yes. The programme supports both undergraduate and postgraduate studies.
Which fields are funded?
Fields listed by the Foundation include Accounting, Computer Science, Economics, Engineering, Finance, Mathematics and Medicine. Other fields may also be considered.
Does the bursary cover tuition?
Yes. Tuition fees are included in the bursary support.
Does it cover accommodation?
Yes. Accommodation fees are included.
Is a laptop provided?
Yes. The Foundation provides a laptop to beneficiaries.
Is there a book allowance?
Yes. A book and study material allowance is provided.
Is there a subsistence allowance?
Yes. The bursary includes a subsistence allowance, although the official information does not state a fixed amount.
Do I have to repay the bursary?
No. Beneficiaries are not required to repay the funding.
Do I have to work for the Foundation after graduating?
No. The Foundation states that beneficiaries are under no obligation to work back the funding.
Can I apply if I already have another bursary?
The programme is aimed at students with limited to no funding, and the application criteria state that applicants should not be receiving another bursary.
What academic record is required?
Applicants must provide an up-to-date academic record stamped by their university.
When does the bursary close?
The current 2027 application listing gives a closing date of 15 November 2026.
When will successful applicants be selected?
The Trustees are expected to shortlist candidates during November 2026, with successful applicants selected before mid-December 2026.
Monocle Foundation Bursary 2027 Summary
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary | Monocle Foundation Bursary Programme |
| Academic Year | 2027 |
| Applicants | Previously disadvantaged black female students |
| Citizenship | South African |
| Study Level | Undergraduate and postgraduate |
| Year of Study | Second year or higher |
| Institution | Recognised and accredited South African tertiary institution |
| Financial Need | Limited to no funding |
| Other Bursary | Not permitted |
| Tuition | Covered |
| Accommodation | Covered |
| Laptop | Provided |
| Books/Study Materials | Allowance provided |
| Subsistence | Allowance provided |
| Career Counselling | Included |
| MS Office Course | Included |
| Closing Date | 15 November 2026 |
| Application | Online |
Conclusion
The Monocle Foundation Bursary Programme 2027 offers comprehensive support to eligible South African women who are already progressing through tertiary education and need additional financial assistance.
The bursary is particularly valuable because it goes beyond tuition funding. Successful beneficiaries can receive support for accommodation, study materials, a laptop and subsistence, while also gaining access to career counselling and a free MS Office course.
The programme is aimed at previously disadvantaged black female students in their second year of study or higher, including both undergraduate and postgraduate students. Fields listed by the Foundation include Finance, Mathematics, Accounting, Economics, Computer Science, Engineering and Medicine, with other fields potentially considered.
Applicants should prepare a strong motivation letter, updated CV, certified ID, university-stamped academic record, Grade 12 certificate and a detailed breakdown of their expected 2027 funding needs.
Applications close on 15 November 2026. Eligible students should submit their complete applications before the deadline and ensure that every required document is included.
