AWS Skills Development Bursary 2027 Applications Now Open
Amazon Web Services (AWS) has opened applications for the AWS Skills Development Bursary 2027, offering full-cost financial support to talented South African students pursuing qualifications in technology, engineering, commerce, education, and healthcare.
Administered through StudyTrust, the bursary aims to develop future professionals who will contribute to South Africa’s growing digital economy. The programme supports both undergraduate and postgraduate students while placing particular emphasis on students with disabilities, learners from LEAP Science and Maths Schools, and former AWS interns.
Successful applicants may receive funding covering tuition, accommodation, textbooks, living expenses, and a personal computer.
Applications are open from 1 June 2026 and close on 30 September 2026.
Bursary Overview
| Programme Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Bursary | AWS Skills Development Bursary |
| Sponsor | Amazon Web Services (AWS) |
| Administrator | StudyTrust |
| Academic Year | 2027 |
| Study Level | Undergraduate & Postgraduate |
| Funding Type | Full-Cost Bursary |
| Opening Date | 1 June 2026 |
| Closing Date | 30 September 2026 |
About the AWS Skills Development Bursary
The AWS Skills Development Bursary is designed to increase access to higher education in fields that are critical to South Africa’s technology and innovation sectors.
The programme supports academically strong students who demonstrate financial need while encouraging the development of future leaders in cloud computing, engineering, information technology, business, education, and healthcare.
Through this initiative, AWS continues investing in the country’s digital skills pipeline and future workforce.
Fields of Study Covered
Undergraduate Degrees
Funding is available for students studying:
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Computer Engineering
- Bachelor of Commerce (Accounting and Finance)
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Bachelor of Education (Mathematics and Science)
- Medicine
Students from first year through to final year may apply.
Postgraduate Degrees
Funding is available for:
- Honours Degrees
- Postgraduate Diplomas
- Master’s Degrees
In the following fields:
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Electronic Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
Students with Disabilities
Students living with disabilities may apply for undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications across all study fields.
What the Bursary Covers
The AWS Skills Development Bursary is a full-cost bursary that may cover:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees (where applicable)
- University residence or approved private accommodation
- Living allowance (subsistence)
- Prescribed textbooks
- Stationery
- A personal computer
Funding is subject to programme conditions and approved limits.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must:
- Be South African citizens.
- Demonstrate strong academic performance.
- Show leadership potential.
- Intend studying full-time.
- Meet the academic requirements for their chosen qualification.
Academic Requirements
Applicants should have achieved:
Grade 12 Learners
- Minimum 65% in Mathematics
- Minimum 65% in English Home Language or 65% in English First Additional Language
Current University Students
- Minimum overall academic average of 65%
Priority Applicants
While all eligible students are encouraged to apply, preference may be given to:
- Students with disabilities.
- Learners from LEAP Science and Maths Schools.
- Former AWS interns.
Benefits of the AWS Skills Development Bursary
Successful applicants may receive:
- Full financial support for university studies.
- Accommodation funding.
- Living allowance.
- Books and study material support.
- A personal computer.
- Reduced financial pressure throughout their studies.
- Opportunity to prepare for careers in South Africa’s growing technology sector.
Skills and Career Opportunities
Graduates supported by the bursary may pursue careers in:
- Cloud Computing
- Software Development
- Information Technology
- Cybersecurity
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Science
- Accounting
- Finance
- Engineering
- Education
- Healthcare
- Digital Transformation
- Technology Consulting
Why Apply?
The AWS Skills Development Bursary provides more than financial assistance.
It enables talented students to focus on academic success while preparing for careers in industries that continue to experience strong demand for skilled professionals.
By removing many of the financial barriers associated with higher education, the programme helps students graduate with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in today’s technology-driven economy.
Application Tips
Before applying:
- Ensure you meet the academic requirements.
- Prepare certified copies of your academic results.
- Gather proof of South African citizenship.
- Complete every section of the online application carefully.
- Read the StudyTrust application instructions before submitting.
- Apply well before the closing date.
Where to Apply
Applications must be submitted through the StudyTrust Online Bursary Application Platform.
Applicants should:
- Create or log into their StudyTrust profile.
- Complete the AWS Skills Development Bursary application.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
- Submit the application before the closing date.
Only applications submitted through the official StudyTrust platform will be considered.
Closing Date
📅 Applications open: 1 June 2026
📅 Applications close: 30 September 2026
Late applications may not be accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who can apply?
South African citizens studying or intending to study approved undergraduate or postgraduate qualifications.
2. Which qualifications qualify?
Undergraduate degrees, Honours, Postgraduate Diplomas, and Master’s degrees in approved fields.
3. Which fields of study are funded?
Eligible fields include:
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Engineering
- Commerce
- Education (Maths & Science)
- Medicine
4. What does the bursary cover?
The bursary may cover:
- Tuition
- Accommodation
- Living allowance
- Books
- Stationery
- Personal computer
5. What academic results are required?
Applicants should have:
- Minimum 65% in Mathematics
- Minimum 65% in English
- University students must maintain an overall 65% average
6. Does AWS prioritise certain applicants?
Yes. Priority may be given to students with disabilities, LEAP Science and Maths School learners, and former AWS interns.
7. When is the application deadline?
Applications close on 30 September 2026.
Editorial Policy
This article has been independently prepared using publicly available information regarding the AWS Skills Development Bursary 2027. It is intended to help prospective students understand the bursary programme and application requirements. This publication is not affiliated with or endorsed by Amazon Web Services (AWS) or StudyTrust. Applicants should always consult the official StudyTrust application platform for the latest eligibility criteria, supporting document requirements, and application procedures before submitting an application.
Sources and References
- Amazon Web Services (AWS) Skills Development Bursary
- StudyTrust Bursary Application Platform
- Department of Higher Education and Training (DHET)
- South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA)
- National Qualifications Framework (NQF)
