The Umthombo Youth Development Foundation (UYDF) is inviting rural KwaZulu-Natal students to apply for its 2026 Health Science bursary. This programme provides top-up funding and structured support for students who already have NSFAS funding and are studying towards health science qualifications at public universities.
At a glance
- Who it’s for: Rural KwaZulu-Natal students funded by NSFAS, studying or accepted to study Health Sciences at a public university.
- What it covers: Top-up to NSFAS package, monthly allowance, mentoring, life-skills support and vacation practice opportunities.
- Study level: Mainly first and second year, with limited places for senior students.
- Closing date: 31 December 2025.
Who is offering this bursary?
UYDF partners with rural district hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal to identify, support and mentor students who will return to serve in the public health system after graduation. The bursary is in addition to NSFAS and focuses on rural youth from the uMkhanyakude, Zululand and King Cetshwayo districts.
What the bursary covers
The UYDF bursary is a top‑up award, designed to close the gap between NSFAS funding and real study costs. Depending on individual circumstances it may cover:
- Additional tuition-related costs not fully covered by NSFAS.
- A monthly allowance (stipend) paid during the academic year.
- Accommodation top-up where needed.
- Textbooks and essential study materials.
- Structured mentoring, life-skills workshops and academic support.
- Vacation work or practical exposure at partner hospitals.
Fields of study
UYDF supports a wide range of health science qualifications at public universities, including (but not limited to):
- Medicine (MBChB)
- Nursing
- Physiotherapy
- Occupational Therapy
- Radiography
- Pharmacy
- Audiology and Speech Therapy
- Dentistry and Dental Therapy
- Other approved health science degrees aligned with public-sector needs.
Who can apply? (Eligibility checklist)
- You are a South African citizen.
- You come from a rural area in KwaZulu-Natal, preferably from the uMkhanyakude, Zululand or King Cetshwayo districts.
- You have been awarded NSFAS funding for your studies (or you are in the process of applying and expect NSFAS support).
- You are in Grade 12 and applying for a health science degree, or you are a current first / second year health science student.
- You are studying or will study at a public university in South Africa.
- You are willing to sign a work-back agreement to serve in a rural hospital after graduation (typically two years).
Documents you’ll need
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate or latest Grade 12 results (if still at school).
- Full academic record and proof of registration (if already at university).
- Proof of NSFAS funding approval (or NSFAS reference if pending).
- Proof of residence in a rural KZN district (e.g. municipal account, confirmation letter, affidavit).
- Motivational letter explaining your background, career goals and commitment to serving in rural health care.
- Any additional documents requested on the official online application form.
How to apply
- Visit the UYDF website and read the full bursary information for prospective students.
- Complete the online application form in full, making sure your personal and contact details are correct.
- Upload all the required supporting documents in clear, readable format.
- Double-check that your NSFAS details and student number (if applicable) are correct.
- Submit your application before 31 December 2025. Late or incomplete applications are usually not considered.
After you submit
Shortlisted candidates may be contacted for interviews, additional information or verification of documents. If you do not hear back within a reasonable period after the closing date, you should assume your application was not successful – but you can still apply again in future cycles if you remain eligible.
For full details and updates, always refer to the official UYDF communication channels.