The Athlone Institute Trust (AIT) offers bursary support through the Athlone Institute Bursary Project Fund (AIBPROF) to help eligible students with tertiary study costs. For 2026, AIT states that no online applications will be accepted and applicants must obtain the official application forms via the methods listed below.
At a glance
- Sponsor/host: Athlone Institute Trust (AIT) – Athlone Institute Bursary Project Fund (AIBPROF)
- Fields/level: Undergraduate or postgraduate study (full-time or part-time) at an accredited tertiary institution
- Who it’s for: South African citizens who reside in Paarl or Mbekweni or are parishioners/members of recognised churches in those areas (see eligibility)
- Closing date: 27 February 2026
About the sponsor
AIT was established to support access to higher education in the Paarl area. AIT’s bursary fund (AIBPROF) provides financial assistance to eligible students who meet the residency/church and academic requirements.
What it covers
AIT describes this as bursary assistance for tertiary studies. The notice does not publish a detailed breakdown of covered costs or set amounts—confirm the final award terms in the official application form and communication from AIT.
Eligibility highlights
- South African citizen.
- Permanent resident of Paarl or Mbekweni OR a parishioner at one of AIT’s member churches (and based in Paarl/Mbekweni as described by AIT).
- Completed matric and can provide proof of results.
- Financial need and a strong academic record.
- Registered for an undergraduate or postgraduate qualification (full-time or part-time) at a tertiary institution accredited/recognised by the Council for Higher Education.
- If already studying: passed the previous year of study.
- Willing to participate in community service and the mentoring programme (as stated by AIT).
Documents to prepare
- Certified copy of ID document.
- Certified proof of registration at a tertiary institution.
- Certified proof of registration fee payment for the current year.
- Proof of residence.
- Certified recent payslips (parents/guardian/own/spouse) or sworn affidavits if unemployed.
- First-year students: certified copy of matric results.
- Senior/postgraduate students: certified full academic record.
- Student Account Information (completed by the tertiary institution): download.
- Religious Leader Testimonial: download.
- Declaration of Information Submitted: download.
Closing date
27 February 2026
Common mistakes to avoid
- Applying without meeting the residency/church eligibility requirement.
- Submitting incomplete documentation (missing proof of registration, fee payment, or income evidence).
- Uploading/handing in uncertified or unclear copies where certified copies are required.
- Waiting until the last day—get forms early so you can collect institutional and church documents in time.
How to apply
- Get the official AIT application forms: AIT states that no online applications will be accepted for 2026. Collect application forms at the listed collection points on the AIT website, or request them via admin@athlonebursary.co.za.
- Complete the application form in full.
- Attach the required supporting documents and the additional forms (Student Account Information, Religious Leader Testimonial, Declaration).
- Submit your application using the submission instructions provided in the official application form (or as directed by AIT when you obtain the forms).