Apply for Compensation Fund External Bursary 2026

The Compensation Fund invites unemployed COID beneficiaries with permanent disabilities, their dependents, and dependents of fatally injured employees to apply for the 2026 External Bursary. Covers tuition, study materials, accommodation, and stipends at TVET, CET, and higher education institutions across South Africa.

Compensation Fund Opens 2026 External Bursary Applications for COID Beneficiaries and Their Dependents

The Compensation Fund, operating under South Africa’s Department of Employment and Labour, has announced its 2026 External Bursary Programme — a vital educational support initiative aimed at transforming the lives of unemployed Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases (COID) beneficiaries with permanent disabilities, their dependents, and the dependents of employees who suffered fatal occupational injuries or diseases.

This bursary programme reflects the Compensation Fund’s continued commitment to rehabilitation, empowerment, and socio-economic reintegration of workers and families affected by workplace-related injuries and illnesses. By investing in education and skills development, the Fund seeks to create pathways toward sustainable employment or self-employment for qualifying beneficiaries.

Who the Bursary Is For

The 2026 Compensation Fund External Bursary is open to three key groups:

Unemployed COID beneficiaries with a permanent disablement (within working age)
Dependents of COID beneficiaries with permanent disablement
Dependents of employees who were fatally injured or contracted fatal occupational diseases

Applicants must have secured admission at a recognised public institution, including:

Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) Colleges
Community Education and Training (CET) Colleges
Higher Education Institutions (Universities and Universities of Technology)

The programme is designed not only to support academic studies but also to enable beneficiaries to access qualifications that improve employability and facilitate reintegration into the labour market.

What the Bursary Covers

Successful applicants receive comprehensive financial assistance, which includes:

Full tuition fees
Prescribed study materials
Monthly stipend
Accommodation support where applicable

The bursary is renewable annually for the full duration of the study programme, subject to satisfactory academic performance and availability of funds. This ensures continuity of support, reducing financial barriers that often prevent disadvantaged students from completing their qualifications.

Focus on Inclusive Access to Education

Recognising that some COID beneficiaries with disabilities may face barriers to entering formal education or training institutions, the Compensation Fund has also made provision for organised Vocational Skills Programmes and alternative qualifications. Beneficiaries experiencing challenges due to educational background or disability-related limitations are encouraged to contact the Fund for tailored support and guidance.

Furthermore, while students are generally expected to study full-time, exceptions may be granted for students with disabilities who require part-time study arrangements under exceptional circumstances.

Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the bursary, applicants must submit a fully completed application form accompanied by the required supporting documents, including:

COID Pension or Claim Number
Certified identity document of the applicant
Certified identity documents or death certificates of parents or guardians (for dependents)
Proof of acceptance from a public PSET institution
Certified copies of academic records
Certification and verification of physical disability by a Health Care Professional or a Disability Support Office, including WCL final medical reports where applicable

Only complete applications with all required documentation will be processed.

Application Process

Applicants can obtain the bursary application form by downloading it from the Department of Employment and Labour website or by visiting the nearest Provincial Labour Centre.

Once completed, applications may be submitted through the following channels:

Postal or Courier Submission:
Sub-Sub-Directorate: Vocational Rehabilitation
Department of Employment and Labour – Compensation Fund
Private Bag X955, Pretoria, 0001

Hand Delivery:

September to December 2025:
167 Thabo Sehume Street, Delta Heights Building, Pretoria
From January 2026:
Compensation House, Corner of Hamilton and Soutpansberg Road, Prinshof, Pretoria

Email Submission:
[email protected]

Application Deadline

The bursary programme remains open throughout the 2026 academic year. However, applicants are strongly encouraged to submit their applications on or before 31 March 2026 to improve their chances of consideration.

Applicants who do not receive a response within two months after submission should consider their application unsuccessful, although they may reapply in future funding cycles if still eligible.

Targeted Learning Programmes

The bursary prioritises programmes that enable beneficiaries to:

Reintegrate into the workplace
Develop employable technical or professional skills
Pursue self-employment opportunities

Recommended qualifications are listed in the official application form, though unemployed COID beneficiaries with permanent disabilities are not strictly limited to these options.

Support and Contact Information

For further assistance, enquiries, or guidance on the bursary programme, applicants may contact:

Telephone:
(012) 319 9264
(012) 319 5774
(012) 319 9124

Customer Care Toll-Free:
0800 321 322
0860 10 5350

SMS Line:
44967

Dedicated support staff are available to assist applicants with information on eligibility, documentation, and submission procedures.

A Pathway to Dignity, Skills, and Independence

For many COID beneficiaries and affected families, the Compensation Fund External Bursary represents more than financial assistance — it is a bridge to independence, professional growth, and restored dignity after life-altering workplace injuries or loss. Through education and skills development, beneficiaries are empowered to rebuild their futures and participate meaningfully in South Africa’s economy.

As the 2026 academic year approaches, eligible individuals are encouraged to take advantage of this opportunity and submit their applications early. With comprehensive support, inclusive access provisions, and a strong developmental mandate, the Compensation Fund continues to play a vital role in transforming hardship into opportunity through education.