The Compensation Fund Bursary 2026 offers full funding for students affected by workplace injuries, occupational diseases, or the loss of a family member due to a work accident.
This bursary is designed to help recipients gain education, build new skills, and improve career opportunities, giving them a fresh start after a difficult experience.
Application Deadline: 31 March 2026
Who Can Apply
The bursary is open to three groups:
- Injured workers with permanent disabilities (unemployed COID beneficiaries)
- Dependants of disabled COID beneficiaries
- Dependants of workers who died at work (ages 17–35)
Eligible institutions include:
- TVET Colleges
- CET Colleges
- Public universities and universities of technology
What the Bursary Covers
The bursary provides full financial support, including:
- Tuition fees – fully covered
- Textbooks & study materials – all included
- Monthly stipend – to support living expenses
- Accommodation – if you need to live near your school
💡 The bursary may be renewed annually, provided you maintain good academic performance and funding is available.
Eligible Programmes
You can study any programme that helps you return to work or start a business. This could be:
- Technical or vocational trades
- University degrees
- Short courses or diplomas
The key rule: the programme must help you overcome disability or educational barriers and improve your career prospects.
How to Qualify
To be eligible, you must:
- Complete the application form correctly
- Provide a valid COID Pension Number or Claim Number
- Attach certified copies of your ID and, if a dependant, your parent/guardian’s ID or death certificate
- Submit proof of acceptance from a recognised institution
- Be a full-time student (part-time allowed for students with disabilities in special cases)
- Provide a medical report confirming permanent disability
❌ Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
How to Apply
Step 1 – Download the Form
Download the 2026 Compensation Fund Bursary Application Form
Step 2 – Submit Your Application
| Method | Address |
|---|---|
| Post/Courier | Sub‑Directorate: Vocational Rehabilitation, Department of Employment and Labour, Compensation Fund, Private Bag X955, Pretoria 0001 |
| Hand Delivery (Sept.–Dec. 2025) | 167 Thabo Sehume Street, Delta Heights Building, Pretoria |
| Hand Delivery (Jan. 2026 onward) | Compensation House, Corner Hamilton & Soutpansberg Road, Prinshof, Pretoria |
| CFexternalbursaries@labour.gov.za |
Expect feedback within two months. If you don’t hear back, your application may not have been successful.
Why This Bursary Matters
The Compensation Fund Bursary is more than financial aid—it is a tool for recovery and growth.
- Helps injured workers retrain and develop new skills
- Supports dependants of deceased workers to pursue education
- Empowers people with disabilities to gain independence and income
It is one of South Africa’s few programmes combining education, disability support, and long-term employability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can apply?
Unemployed COID beneficiaries with permanent disabilities, dependants of disabled beneficiaries, and families of workers who died due to workplace accidents.
What does the bursary cover?
Tuition, textbooks, monthly stipend, and accommodation if needed.
Which schools are eligible?
TVET Colleges, CET Colleges, and South African public universities and universities of technology.
Can I study any programme?
Yes, as long as it helps you overcome disability or educational barriers and improves employability.
When is the closing date?
All applications must be submitted by 31 March 2026.
How do I apply?
Applications are submitted via post, hand delivery, or email using the official Compensation Fund form.
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