SAMRO Foundation Music Bursary

1. 1

   Confirm you meet the eligibility criteria (citizen of SA, Botswana, Lesotho or Eswatini, majoring in Music from 2nd year onwards) and have proof of registration for the academic year

2. 2

   Access the SAMRO Foundation online bursary application portal (verify the live link, as the official bursary page currently redirects to the main SAMRO site)

3. 3

   Complete the online application form for the current cycle

4. 4

   Obtain two reference letters from current lecturers (dated within the last 3 months); Masters applicants also arrange a supervisor reference

5. 5

   Attach a certified ID copy, proof of tertiary registration and your latest academic transcript on institutional letterhead

6. 6

   Masters applicants attach a thesis synopsis of approximately 5-8 pages

7. 7

   Submit before the annual closing date (recent cycles closed around the end of March)

8. 8

   Reconfirm the exact closing date and live portal with the SAMRO Foundation before applying

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible for the SAMRO Foundation Music Bursary?

Citizens of South Africa, Botswana, Lesotho or Eswatini (Swaziland) who are registered full-time and majoring in Music for a diploma or degree at an accredited/recognised South African university. You must have completed first year, so the bursary is open from 2nd year through to Honours and Masters level.

How much is the bursary worth and what does it cover?

It is approximately R11,000-R12,000 per award (sources differ on the exact figure) and covers tuition fees only for the academic year in which it is granted. It does not cover accommodation, books or living costs.

Who is not eligible?

First-year students, doctoral/PhD students, those in foundation or bridging programmes, students at private higher education institutions (such as City Varsity, COPA, AFDA or the Academy for Sound Engineering), and students specialising in Musical Theatre or Music Therapy are not eligible.

When does the bursary close and where do I apply?

It runs on an annual cycle, with applications typically closing around the end of March once students have proof of registration. The official bursary page now redirects to the main SAMRO site, so reconfirm the live application portal and exact closing date with the SAMRO Foundation before applying.