Monocle Foundation Bursary Programme

1. 1

   Confirm the bursary is open via the Monocle Foundation page at monoclesolutions.com/en-za/monocle-foundation (applications typically close around 1 November each year)

2. 2

   Prepare your supporting documents, including your motivational letter to the Trustees and a detailed budget/funding breakdown by category

3. 3

   Submit your application through the Monocle Solutions careers portal at careers-page.com/monocle-solutions before the closing date (1 November 2025 for the cycle funding 2026 studies)

4. 4

   If shortlisted, take part in a telephone screening call (shortlist notifications are made in November)

5. 5

   Attend a meet-and-greet with the Foundation

6. 6

   Attend a final interview with the Trustees, after which final selections are confirmed by mid-December; late applications are not accepted

Frequently Asked Questions

Who qualifies for the Monocle Foundation Bursary?

You must be a South African citizen and a Black (African, Coloured or Indian/Asian) female student who is previously disadvantaged and in genuine financial need with limited to no current funding. You must already be enrolled in your second year of study or higher at a recognised South African tertiary institution (undergraduate or postgraduate), show strong academic results, and not currently hold another bursary.

What does the bursary cover?

It is a comprehensive, full-cost bursary. It covers tuition fees, a book and study-material allowance, accommodation, a subsistence/living allowance and a laptop, and adds career counselling and an MS Office course. The funds are non-repayable, so you leave with no study debt. The exact rand value is not published.

How do I apply and what is the selection process?

Applications are submitted online through the Monocle Solutions careers portal (careers-page.com/monocle-solutions), with details on the Monocle Foundation page. You will need your Matric certificate, certified ID, CV, university-stamped academic records, a motivational letter to the Trustees and a detailed budget breakdown. Selection is multi-stage: a phone screening, a meet-and-greet and a final trustee interview.

When does the Monocle Foundation Bursary close?

Applications typically close around 1 November each year — 1 November 2025 for the cycle funding 2026 studies. Shortlist notifications are made in November and final selections are confirmed by mid-December. Late applications are not accepted, so confirm the current year's dates on the official page before applying.