Funder: Compensation Fund
Programme: External Bursary Scheme (Vocational Rehabilitation)
Academic Year: 2026
Study Level: TVET, CET, or Higher Education Institution
Recommended Deadline: 31 March 2026
About the Bursary
The Compensation Fund invites applications from unemployed COID beneficiaries with permanent disabilities, their dependents, and dependents of employees who died due to workplace injuries.
The bursary aims to support eligible applicants with funding to pursue further education at recognised Post-School Education and Training (PSET) institutions.
What the Bursary Covers
Successful applicants may receive funding for:
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Tuition fees
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Prescribed study materials
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Accommodation
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Monthly stipend
The bursary is renewable each year for the duration of the study programme, depending on:
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academic performance
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availability of funds
Who Can Apply
Applicants must be:
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Unemployed COID beneficiaries with permanent disablement (PWD)
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Dependents of COID beneficiaries with permanent disabilities
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Dependents of employees who died due to workplace injuries
Applicants must also:
✔ Be accepted at a recognised TVET College, CET College, or Higher Education Institution (HEI)
✔ Study full-time (exceptions may be made for students with disabilities)
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must submit:
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Fully completed bursary application form
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COID pension number or claim number
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Certified copy of applicant ID
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Certified copies of parent or guardian ID documents or death certificates (for dependents)
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Proof of acceptance from a recognised PSET institution
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Certification or verification of disability by a health professional or disability support office
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WCL forms (final medical report)
How to Apply
Step 1
Download the bursary application form from the official website:
https://www.labour.gov.za/2026-compensation-fund-vocational-rehabilitation-external-bursary-scheme
Step 2
Complete the application form and prepare all required documents.
Step 3
Submit your application through one of the following methods:
CFexternalbursaries@labour.gov.za
Post or Courier
Sub-Sub-Directorate: Vocational Rehabilitation
Department of Employment and Labour
Compensation Fund
Private Bag X955
Pretoria
0001
Hand Delivery (Sep–Dec 2025)
167 Thabo Sehume Street
Delta Heights Building
Pretoria
Hand Delivery (From Jan 2026)
Compensation House
Corner Hamilton & Soutpansberg Road
Prinshof, Pretoria
Contact Information
For enquiries:
Phone:
012 319 9264
012 319 5774
012 319 9124
Toll-free:
0800 321 322
0860 10 5350
SMS: 44967
Important Dates
The bursary is open throughout the 2026 academic year.
However, applicants are strongly encouraged to apply before 31 March 2026.
Important Note
If you do not receive a response from the Compensation Fund within two months after applying, your application should be considered unsuccessful.
NextStepZA Tip
If you are a COID beneficiary struggling to access training institutions due to educational barriers, you may contact the Compensation Fund to explore vocational skills programmes and training opportunities.