Medical Bursaries South Africa 2027

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How much can I earn within the Medical field in South Africa?
Where can I find Medical bursaries in South Africa?
Where can I study a Medical qualification in South Africa?

Do you dream of a career within the medical field, helping and caring for the sick and injured? Whether you dream of becoming a Doctor, Nurse, Surgeon, Dietitian, Occupational Therapist (or any other health science professional), you will need to obtain a qualification within this sector.

In order to be accepted into the Medical/ Health faculty at a university or tertiary institution, you must show above average results in Science (Life Science/ Biology and sometimes Physical Science too) and Mathematics. Medical studies take a lot of dedication and time, but they are highly worth it if you are passionate about the field.

View all bursaries OPEN for application here

How much can I earn within the Medical field in South Africa?

The medical and healthcare sector in South Africa offers a wide range of career opportunities, from entry-level clinical support roles to highly specialised medical practitioners. Salaries vary significantly depending on qualifications, experience, specialisation, and whether professionals work in the public or private healthcare sector. Highly specialised doctors and surgeons typically earn the highest salaries, while nursing and allied health roles offer stable and in-demand career pathways with strong growth potential.

Career	Entry Level (0–3 yrs)	Mid-Level (4–8 yrs)	Senior (8–15 yrs)	Specialist / Consultant (15+ yrs)
Student Nurse / Nursing Auxiliary	R6,000 – R12,000	R12,000 – R18,000	R18,000 – R25,000	—
Registered Nurse	R18,000 – R30,000	R30,000 – R45,000	R45,000 – R60,000	R60,000 – R80,000+
Professional Nurse (Advanced Practice)	R25,000 – R40,000	R40,000 – R60,000	R60,000 – R85,000	R85,000 – R100,000+
Medical Doctor (Intern)	R20,000 – R35,000	—	—	—
Medical Officer	R40,000 – R70,000	R70,000 – R110,000	R110,000 – R150,000	R150,000 – R200,000+
General Practitioner (GP)	R50,000 – R90,000	R90,000 – R150,000	R150,000 – R250,000	R250,000 – R400,000+
Specialist Doctor (e.g. Surgery, Cardiology)	R80,000 – R150,000	R150,000 – R250,000	R250,000 – R400,000	R400,000 – R600,000+
Pharmacist	R25,000 – R45,000	R45,000 – R70,000	R70,000 – R100,000	R100,000 – R130,000+
Pharmacy Assistant	R10,000 – R18,000	R18,000 – R25,000	R25,000 – R35,000	—
Radiographer	R20,000 – R35,000	R35,000 – R55,000	R55,000 – R80,000	R80,000 – R100,000+
Physiotherapist	R20,000 – R40,000	R40,000 – R65,000	R65,000 – R90,000	R90,000 – R120,000+
Occupational Therapist	R20,000 – R38,000	R38,000 – R60,000	R60,000 – R85,000	R85,000 – R110,000+
Medical Laboratory Scientist	R25,000 – R45,000	R45,000 – R70,000	R70,000 – R95,000	R95,000 – R130,000+
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT/Paramedic)	R12,000 – R25,000	R25,000 – R40,000	R40,000 – R60,000	R60,000 – R80,000+
Dentist	R40,000 – R80,000	R80,000 – R150,000	R150,000 – R250,000	R250,000 – R400,000+

Where can I find Medical bursaries in South Africa?

Medical bursaries in South Africa provide essential financial support to students who aspire to pursue careers in healthcare but may face financial barriers to studying.

These bursaries are offered by government departments, hospitals, universities, private healthcare groups, and medical organisations to help fund qualifications such as medicine, nursing, pharmacy, and other health science fields. In addition to covering study-related costs like tuition fees, accommodation, and textbooks, many medical bursaries also include practical training opportunities and guaranteed work placements after graduation, helping to develop much-needed healthcare professionals in the country.

Please note that some of the bursaries listed below may be closed. Always check the closing date of each bursary on the relevant bursary page.

AUDIOLOGY BURSARIES FOR 2027

Audiologists are medical professionals who identify, diagnose and treat patients with hearing, balance and related auditory disorders. Audiologists perform hearing tests, and thereafter access the results, provide a diagnosis to their patients and discuss recommendations for further testing and treatments (whether that includes hearing aids or a referral for surgery). These medical professionals provide personalised services to help minimise the conditions of these disorders, so that patients may have an improved quality of life. Generally, Audiologists have completed a Master’s degree in their field and have sufficient computer literacy skills, needed to generate digital reports and perform other duties.

Here are a list of bursaries and scholarships that fund Audiology studies:

BIOCHEMISTRY BURSARIES FOR 2027

Biochemistry explores the chemical processes relating to and within living organisms. Biochemists use advanced laboratory equipment to study the chemical principles of biological processes, as well as the effects of drugs, hormones or nutrients on a certain biological organism. They also use chemical techniques and knowledge to solve complex biological problems. Most professionals in this field have completed either a Bachelor’s degree or Postgraduate Bachelor’s degree.

Here are a list of bursaries and scholarships that fund Biochemistry studies:

DIETETICS & NUTRITION BURSARIES FOR 2027

Clinical dietitians and nutritionists work in clinics, care facilities, hospitals, private practices and other institutions, to provide medical nutrition therapy to patients. These healthcare professionals are responsible for creating nutritional programmes for people, based on the patients health requirements, as well as advising them on how to maintain healthier lifestyles.

Here are a list of bursaries and scholarships that fund Dietitian and Nutrition studies:

DENTAL & DENTISTRY BURSARIES FOR 2027

Dentists are healthcare professionals that diagnose and treat problems with teeth, gums and related parts of a patients mouth. There are various sectors within the dentistry field, such as:
-Orthodontists: they straighten teeth by applying braces or other appliances.
-Oral pathologists: they diagnose conditions within the mouth such as oral diseases, ulcers or bumps.
-Dental public health specialists: they promote dental health and prevention of dental diseases within certain communities.
-Endodontists: they perform root canals, which entails removing the blood supply and nerves for an injured or infected tooth.
-Pediatric dentists: they provide dental treatment for children and special needs patients.
-Prosthodontists: they replace missing teeth with bridges, crown or movable parts like dentures.
-Periodontists: they treat the bones and gums that support the teeth.
-Oral and maxillofacial radiologists: they diagnose disease in the neck and head by way of imaging technologies.
-Oral and maxillofacial surgeons: they operate on the jaws, mouth, gums, teeth, head and neck. They also provide procedures such as removing impacted teeth and repairing cleft lip or palate.

Here are a list of bursaries and scholarships that fund Dental, Dentistry and related studies:

EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE BURSARIES FOR 2027

An Emergency Medical Technician (also known as an “EMT”) responds to emergency calls to provide immediate care to critically injured or ill patients, and thereafter to transport them to a medical facility. During transportation, EMT’s are responsible for monitoring the patients vital signs, while the other EMT drives the emergency vehicle.

Here are a list of bursaries and scholarships that fund Emergency Medical Care studies:

ERGONOMICS BURSARIES FOR 2027

Ergonomists deal with the safety and efficiency of transportation, equipment and various systems. These professionals ensure protection, health and comfort within the work environment, in various fields. Also known as human factors specialists, these professionals promote health and productivity in a work environment.

Here are a list of bursaries and scholarships that fund Ergonomics studies:

Armscor Bursary

GENERAL MEDICAL BURSARIES FOR 2027

Medicine is a branch of science that’s main focus is to care for a patient by managing their diagnosis, prognosis, prevention, treatment, palliation, as well as promoting their health. The practice of medicine has been around for thousands of years, from traditional healers in the 1600s to the 21st-century doctor.

Medicine consists of many health care practices that aim to ensure the patient’s well-being is restored and that, ultimately, any other further diseases or health-related problems are prevented or eliminated. Medicine is extremely vital to society and all inhabitants of the planet. As mentioned, it is a practice that has been going on for thousands of years as it is used to treat and cure many diseases and health problems. Without traditional and Western Medicine there would be a major decrease within the population, an outbreak of many health-related issues, as well as diseases.

To obtain a qualification in this highly demanded field, you will need to take Mathematics, Physical Science, and Biology as subjects in school. Once in university, you will need to obtain a Bachelor of Medicine and later complete Honours, Masters, and Doctoral programmes if you wish to open your own practice within the field. Some careers related to medicine are General Practitioner, Surgeon, Dentist, Nurse, Pathologist, Endocrinologist, Pharmacist, and more.

Here are a list of bursaries and scholarships that fund General Medical studies:

Health Science is a sub-category of the medical field and includes a number of disciplines relating to the science of health. Health Science consists of both traditional and Western Medicine and consists of nutrition and other health related issues that affect both animals and humans.

Health Science engages in the study, research, and knowledge of health and applies that to curing diseases, improving general health, as well as gaining an understanding of the function of humans and animals. Health Science is important as it enhances our health care, disease prevention, health-promotion as well as improve the lives of patients. Many health scientists actually dedicate their lives to improving those of many communities and patients.

To study health science, you will need to obtain a minimum qualification of a Bachelors of Science degree. Some fields of study you could partake in are General Health Science Studies, Physical Therapy, Nutrition and Wellness studies, and more. Careers within the Health Science field are a Physical Therapist, Fitness Worker, Dietitian, and more.

Here are a list of bursaries and scholarships that fund Health Science and related studies:

HYGIENE BURSARIES FOR 2027

Occupational Hygienists are those responsible for identifying, evaluating and controlling the hazards within the workplace which could be harmful to workers, the surrounding community and the environment.

Here are a list of bursaries and scholarships that fund Hygiene studies:

NURSING BURSARIES FOR 2027

Nursing is a profession within the Medical and Health sector. Nursing focuses primarily on caring for individuals, communities, and families and aiding them in attaining, maintaining, and recovering optimal health conditions.

Whilst Doctors primarily operate, diagnose, and practice on patients, nurses not only assist doctors but also ensure that a patient’s well-being is taken care of and that their needs are met when in hospitals and clinics. Nurses are essential to the world as they help families, individuals, and communities gain an understanding of the physical, mental, emotional, and cultural experiences they may experience during both their health and illnesses. Without nurses, many people would not have the necessary support they need when going through an ailment or disease.

To become a nurse, you will need to obtain any of the following qualifications: a 4 year Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing; a 3-year Diploma, a 1-year higher certificate in auxiliary nursing; or a 1-year postgraduate Advanced Diploma in nursing along with your Degree or Diploma.

Here are a list of bursaries and scholarships that fund Nursing studies:

OPTOMETRY BURSARIES FOR 2027

Optometrists were formally known as opticians and they are individuals trained to look at eyes and detect any faults they may have, such as vision problems, injury, abnormalities, ocular disease, and other health problems. Optometrists ensure that health assessments are made as well as offer clinical advice, prescribe contact lenses and spectacles, and aid the patient with any further treatment they may need. Optometrists are vital in today’s society- with the increase of technological devices with bright screens and features, the eye health of many has significantly decreased. Therefore, there has been an increase in the need for optometrists to educate people on the importance of eye care, as well as provide them with the necessary aid to make their lives easier and improve their optometry health.

To study optometry, you will need to have Biology and Physical Science as a subject in Matric and at university, you need to obtain a 3 year Bachelor of Optometry Degree, which consists of both practical and clinical theoretical training. You will then need to register with the Health Professions Council and Interim National Medical and Dental Council of South Africa to qualify to practice legally.

If you are looking for bursaries or funding for the Optometry sector, here are some options for you:

OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY BURSARIES FOR 2027

Occupational Therapists assess and provide treatment to patients with mental/ physical/ cognitive impairments. OT’s help their patients maintain or improve their everyday working and living skills, as well as to banish barriers which may prevent patients from performing simple daily activities.

If you are looking for bursaries or funding for the Occupational Therapy sector, here are some options for you:

ORTHOTICS AND PROSTHETICS BURSARIES FOR 2027

Orthotists and Prosthetists (also known as “O&P”) professionals, are healthcare professionals who design medical support devices (such as artificial limbs, braces or other medical devices) and fit them to patients. Certified prosthetists/ orthotists (CPOs) make use of various materials to fit the devices, measuring and aligning them to ensure they are comfortable and functional.

If you are looking for bursaries or funding for the Orthotists and Prosthetists sector, here are some options for you:

PHARMACY BURSARIES FOR 2027

Pharmacists work in pharmacies, chemists, hospitals and medical clinics to dispense medication directly to patients. These professionals are responsible for reviewing and interpreting physician orders and thereafter preparing medication. They may also prescribe medication to clients based on their own knowledge.

Pharmacists dispense medication by packaging and labeling pharmaceutical products and monitor drug therapies and advising of interventions.

If you are looking for bursaries or funding for the Pharmacy sector, here are some options for you:

PHYSIOTHERAPY BURSARIES FOR 2027

Physiotherapists help patients ease physical difficulties from disability, injury, illness or aging, to improve their mobility. Physiotherapists create and implement therapies and treatment programmes by way of massage, therapeutic exercise and electrotherapy.

If you are looking for bursaries or funding for the Physiotherapy sector, here are some options for you:

PSYCHOLOGY BURSARIES FOR 2027

Psychologists are people who study the human mind and their research is used to better understand human memory, behaviour and mental disorders. Psychologists provide counselling and experimentation in order to promote understanding and assist people with mental health conditions.

If you are looking for bursaries or funding for the Psychology sector, here are some options for you:

RADIOGRAPHY BURSARIES FOR 2027

Radiographers works with medical imaging equipment (X-rays) to create images of patients that physicians use to diagnose injuries and diseases. Radiographers are different from radiologists – radiographers create diagnostic images for interpretation by another medical professional, while radiologists are usually involved in both the imaging and interpretation stage.

If you are looking for bursaries or funding for the Radiography sector, here are some options for you:

SPEECH & HEARING THERAPY BURSARIES FOR 2027

Speech therapists work with people from all types of backgrounds, including those with learning disabilities, trauma victims, and others with speech-related issues.

Speech Language Pathologists (SLP) work with people who have troubles with speech or processing language correctly, including stuttering or aphasia (the inability to articulate any speech). SLP’s treat children and adults with motor skill and physical skill problems, and cognitive issues causing language issues.

If you are looking for bursaries or funding for the Speech Therapy and Hearing Therapy sector, here are some options for you:

Where can I study a Medical qualification in South Africa?

To study towards a medical qualification in South Africa, you need to complete an MBChB (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) degree at an accredited university. This is the main qualification required to become a medical doctor.

You can study medicine at the following major institutions:

University of Cape Town (UCT)
University of Pretoria (UP)
Stellenbosch University (SU)
University of the Witwatersrand (Wits)
University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
University of Johannesburg (UJ)
University of the Free State (UFS)
University of Limpopo (UL)
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU)
Nelson Mandela University (NMU)
Walter Sisulu University (WSU)
University of Venda (UNIVEN – limited medical pathways via health sciences)

To become qualified within the medical field, you will need the following:

MBChB degree: 6 years of full-time study
Internship: 2 years in a hospital
Community service: 1 year in public healthcare
After this, you register with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) as a medical doctor