Introduction – Empowering Dreams Through the Compensation Fund Bursary
Education is one of the most powerful tools for transforming lives. In South Africa, thousands of students dream of pursuing higher education but face financial barriers that hold them back. The Compensation Fund Bursary Programme 2026 is here to bridge that gap offering hope, financial relief, and career opportunities for those who need it most.
This bursary programme, managed by the Compensation Fund under the Department of Employment and Labour, supports injured workers, dependents of employees, and their families in obtaining quality education and training.
Whether you want to study Engineering, Teaching, Health Sciences, IT, or skilled trades, this bursary could be your steppingstone to a brighter, more independent future.
About the Compensation Fund
The Compensation Fund (CF) is part of South Africa’s Department of Employment and Labour. Its main role is to provide financial compensation and medical care to workers who are injured, disabled, or contract diseases while performing their job duties.
The Fund also supports dependents of workers who have passed away due to work-related incidents — ensuring that their families continue to have opportunities for growth and stability.
The Fund Provides Support For:
- Workers permanently disabled due to occupational injuries or diseases
- Dependents of fatally injured employees
- Apprentices and trainees who lose income due to workplace incidents
Beyond compensation, the Fund invests in skills development, vocational rehabilitation, and education, helping beneficiaries regain independence and find meaningful employment — or even become self-employed.
About the Compensation Fund Bursary Programme 2025
The Compensation Fund Bursary Programme was designed to empower COID beneficiaries (Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases Act) and their dependents.
For the 2026 academic year, the Fund invites eligible students to apply for fully funded bursaries to pursue studies at universities, TVET colleges, and other accredited institutions.
This programme supports two main groups:
Group 1 – Unemployed COID Beneficiaries with Permanent Disablement (PWD)
If you are a worker who suffered a permanent disability due to workplace injury or disease, this bursary allows you to study in fields that help you reintegrate into the workforce or start your own business.
Group 2 – Dependents of COID Beneficiaries and Fatally Injured Employees
If you are a child or dependent (aged 17–35) of a COID beneficiary or a deceased worker, this bursary helps you continue your education and secure your family’s financial future.
Fields Covered by the Compensation Fund Bursary
The bursary covers a wide range of qualifications — from academic to technical and creative fields. Applicants can apply for studies in the following areas (and more):
- Accounting Science
- Actuarial Science
- Aeronautical & Aerospace Engineering
- Agriculture
- Architecture
- Culinary Arts
- Data Science
- Economic & Financial Sciences
- Engineering (Chemical, Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Mechatronics, Production, etc.)
- Environmental Health
- Graphic Design & Digital Marketing
- Film, Animation, and Brand Communication
- Information Technology / Computer Science (AI, Machine Learning, Cybersecurity, Robotics, Cloud, IoT, Quantum Computing)
- Health and Clinical Sciences
- Risk Management & Forensics
- Teaching (Maths, Science, ICT, Early Childhood Development)
- Apprenticeship & Trade Qualifications
Other fields may also be considered depending on merit and relevance.
What the Compensation Fund Bursary Covers
This bursary is a fully funded opportunity, meaning it takes care of all your major educational expenses.
Coverage Includes:
- Tuition fees (paid directly to the institution)
- Prescribed textbooks and study materials
- Accommodation or residence fees
- Monthly stipend for living expenses
This ensures that selected students can focus on their studies without worrying about financial stress.
Bursary Duration:
The bursary is renewable each academic year, provided the student maintains good academic performance and funds remain available.
Eligibility Criteria
Before applying, make sure you meet the minimum requirements for your group.
For Group 1 (COID Beneficiaries):
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be unemployed and of working age
- Have a permanent disablement (PWD) due to a work-related injury or disease
- Must plan to study in one of the approved fields
- Have to be accepted or intending to study at a recognised TVET, CET College, or Higher Education Institution
- Must aim to return to work or become self-employed after completing studies
For Group 2 (Dependents of COID Beneficiaries):
- Must be a South African citizen aged 17–35 years
- Must be a dependent of a COID beneficiary with a permanent disablement, or a dependent of a deceased employee
- Have to be accepted or enrolled at a recognised institution
- Must intend to pursue one of the approved fields of study
Required Documents for Application
Applicants must submit certified copies of the following:
For Group 1 Applicants:
- South African ID
- COID pension or claim number
- Latest academic transcript (if studying)
- Proof of acceptance at a recognised institution
- Tuition and prescribed materials quotations
- Proof of residence
- Proof of disability verified by a healthcare professional
For Group 2 Applicants:
- South African ID or birth certificate
- ID or birth certificate of COID beneficiary
- Parents’/guardians’ IDs or death certificates (if applicable)
- COID pension or claim number
- Proof of acceptance
- Academic results (Matric or latest transcript)
- Proof of residence and income (salary slip, affidavit, SASSA grant, etc.)
- Proof of disability (if applicable)
How to Apply for the Compensation Fund Bursary 2025
Follow these simple steps to submit your application correctly:
Step 1: Download the Application Form
Get the official Compensation Fund Bursary Application Form 2025 (PDF) from the Department of Labour website or the Compensation Fund office.
Step 2: Complete the Form
Fill in all details accurately. Be honest and double-check that your personal information, academic records, and COID details are correct.
Step 3: Attach Required Documents
Include all certified supporting documents listed above. Missing documents can lead to disqualification.
Step 4: Submit Your Application
You can submit your application using any of these methods:
Email: CFexternalbursaries@labour.gov.za
(Use the subject line “COID Bursary 2025”)
Post or Courier:
The Sub-Directorate: Vocational Rehabilitation
Department of Employment and Labour, Compensation Fund
Private Bag X955, Pretoria, 0001
Hand Delivery:
Compensation Fund Head Building
167 Thabo Sehume & Madiba Street
Delta Heights Building, Pretoria, 0002
Important Dates
- Closing Date: 31 March 2026
All applications submitted after this date will not be considered.
Contact Details
For any queries related to the Compensation Fund Bursary, contact:
Tel: 012 319 9264 / 012 319 5774 / 012 319 9124
Email: cfexternalbursaries@labour.gov.za
Why You Should Apply
The Compensation Fund Bursary Programme is more than just financial support — it’s a life-changing opportunity to rebuild your future, your confidence, and your independence.
By applying, you gain access to:
- A fully funded education in your chosen field
- A chance to develop professional skills and secure employment
- Networking opportunities with other students and industry professionals
- The ability to give back to your community by sharing knowledge and experience
Extra Tips for a Successful Application
- Apply early – don’t wait until the deadline.
- Double-check documents – make sure they’re certified and complete.
- Write a strong motivation letter – explain how the bursary will change your life.
- Keep a copy of your application for reference.
- Stay contactable – ensure your email and phone number are correct.
Global Relevance – Why International Students Should Know About It
While the bursary is primarily for South African citizens, international audiences from the USA, UK, and Canada can learn from this initiative as a model of social investment. The programme showcases how governments can empower disabled workers and their dependents through education — turning tragedy into opportunity.
It also highlights South Africa’s commitment to inclusive education and workforce reintegration, inspiring global conversations about social justice and human development.
Final Thoughts
The Compensation Fund Bursary Programme 2026 is not just another funding scheme — it’s a second chance for those whose lives were impacted by workplace injuries or the loss of a loved one.
If you or someone you know qualifies, apply before 31 March 2026. Your education could become the key to unlocking a better, brighter, and more secure future.
Ready to take the next step?
Download the application form, prepare your documents, and start your journey toward empowerment today.
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