Are you a young Black South African planning to study a business-related degree in 2027? The JDK Benefit Trust has opened applications for its 2027 bursary, which supports students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds with their studies. The Trust gives particular priority to women and people with disabilities. The reported closing date is 31 October 2026.
Bursary at a Glance
- Funder: JDK Benefit Trust (established in 2016)
- For: Black South African students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds
- Age: 17 to 21
- Study level: Matric learners going to university, and current 1st- or 2nd-year students
- Fields: Accounting, economics, human resources, marketing, health and safety, logistics and management sciences
- Funding year: 2027 academic year
- Reported deadline: 31 October 2026
About the JDK Benefit Trust
The JDK Benefit Trust was set up in 2016 to carry out public-benefit work supporting Black South Africans. Its focus is on education, entrepreneurship and self-reliance in historically marginalised communities, with special attention to Black women and people with disabilities. Education is one of its top priorities.
Benefits
The Trust does not publish a fixed bursary amount. Its application form, however, asks applicants for a budget covering:
- Tuition fees
- Books and learning materials
- Residence or accommodation
- Any other study-related expenses you list
This suggests the bursary is designed around each student’s actual study costs. The final award will depend on the Trust’s assessment, so prepare an honest, detailed budget.
Eligibility
The online form checks these requirements first. If you can’t answer “yes” to them, you won’t be able to continue:
- You are a South African citizen
- You are aged 17 to 21
- You are currently in Matric, or have completed your 1st or 2nd year of university studies
- You are a Previously Disadvantaged Individual (PDI)
- You are self-motivated and committed to succeeding
The form also asks about criminal records, university exemption, your latest academic average and whether you already receive other bursaries.
Eligible Fields of Study
- Accounting
- Economics
- Human Resources
- Marketing
- Health and Safety
- Logistics
- Management Sciences
Required Documents
Have these ready as clear scans before you start:
- A certified copy of your South African ID
- Matric learners: your Grade 11 final results and latest Matric results
- Matric completed: your Matric certificate
- University students: your full academic record
- Proof of bank account (bank letter or statement)
- Proof of address, dated within the last three months
- Your SARS tax reference number, if applicable
- Proof of accommodation arrangements, if you have them
Tips for a Strong Application
- Prepare a realistic budget. Get your university’s fee schedule and residence costs so your figures are accurate.
- Declare other funding. Be honest if you already receive NSFAS or another bursary, and say what it covers.
- Certify documents early. Police stations and post offices can get busy near deadlines.
- Use a reliable email and phone number. This is how the Trust will contact you.
How to Apply
- Register for an account on the JDK Benefit Trust website.
- Complete the online application form step by step: eligibility, academic details, personal information, budget and planned studies.
- Upload your supporting documents.
- Submit before the closing date.
Apply for the JDK Benefit Trust Bursary 2027
Note: The 31 October 2026 closing date comes from published listings. The Trust’s website says applications are open for 2027 but doesn’t show the deadline, so apply as early as possible. For questions, email [email protected].
