Cyril Ramaphosa Education Trust (CRET) Bursary

1. 1

   Confirm you meet the age, citizenship and financial-need criteria

2. 2

   Visit the official Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation CRET page to access the current application link

3. 3

   Complete a psychometric test to support your chosen field of study

4. 4

   Complete the online application form for the relevant academic year

5. 5

   Write and attach a strong motivational letter explaining why you deserve the bursary

6. 6

   Upload all required supporting documents

7. 7

   Submit your application before the published closing date; recent rounds closed in December (10 December 2023 and 13 December 2024), and late applications are not accepted

8. 8

   Attend interviews or assessments if shortlisted

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can apply for the CRET bursary?

South African citizens aged 16 to 27 with demonstrable financial need (household income below R650,000 per year) who are matriculants, unemployed youth, or undergraduates already enrolled at a recognised South African public institution. You must show proof of application or registration at a recognised institution.

What does the CRET bursary cover?

It is a full-cost bursary covering registration and tuition, textbooks and stationery, accommodation, meals, a monthly living allowance and transport where required. Beyond funding, CRET provides mentorship, soft-skills training, twice-yearly holiday work experience and psychosocial support.

When is the CRET application deadline?

CRET runs one application round a year, and recent rounds closed in December (10 December 2023 for the 2024 intake and 13 December 2024 for 2025), with no late applications accepted. As of 12 October 2026 the Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation had not published the 2027 application window, so check cyrilramaphosafoundation.org before relying on any date.

Do I need a psychometric test to apply?

Yes. You must provide proof of completing a psychometric test that supports your chosen field of study, alongside a strong motivational letter explaining why you deserve the bursary. This helps CRET match you to a field where you can thrive.

Where do I find the official application link?

Use the official Cyril Ramaphosa Foundation CRET page at cyrilramaphosafoundation.org. Past cycles referenced an application portal via pluggedin.standardbank.co.za or Microsoft Forms, but the link changes each year, so the foundation page is the safest source for the current application.