The Department of Employment and Labour, through the Compensation Fund, has officially opened applications for the Compensation Fund External Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic intake. This bursary is designed to support COID (Compensation for Occupational Injuries and Diseases) beneficiaries, people living with permanent disabilities, and dependents of workers who were injured or lost their lives due to workplace-related incidents.Compensation Fund Bursary Programme 2026
The Compensation Fund Bursary Programme plays a critical role in South Africa’s social protection and skills development framework. It aims to restore dignity, promote access to education, and empower affected individuals to reintegrate into the economy through academic or vocational training.
With the cost of higher education continuing to rise, this bursary offers a lifeline to families whose earning capacity has been disrupted by occupational injuries or diseases.
What Is the Compensation Fund Bursary Programme 2026?
The Compensation Fund Bursary Programme is a government-funded initiative that provides financial support to eligible students linked to COID claims. The programme supports studies at:
- Public Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) colleges
- Community Education and Training (CET) colleges
- Public Higher Education Institutions (Universities and Universities of Technology)
The bursary focuses on education that leads to employment, self-employment, or sustainable livelihoods, particularly for individuals who face physical, social, or economic barriers due to workplace injuries.
Who Should Apply for the 2026 Intake?
The bursary is targeted at the following categories of applicants:
1. COID Beneficiaries with Permanent Disabilities
Individuals of working age who:
- Are registered COID beneficiaries
- Have sustained permanent disabilities as a result of occupational injuries or diseases
2. Dependents of Permanently Disabled COID Beneficiaries
This includes children or legal dependents of workers who are permanently disabled and receiving compensation under COID.
3. Dependents of Deceased Workers
- Surviving spouses and children of employees who died due to workplace-related injuries or occupational diseases
- Eligible dependents must generally be between the ages of 17 and 35
4. Institution Acceptance Requirement
All applicants must have provisional or full acceptance from a recognised public:
- TVET College
- CET College
- Higher Education Institution (HEI)
What Does the Compensation Fund Bursary Cover?
Successful applicants will receive comprehensive financial support, which may include:
- Full tuition fees paid directly to the institution
- Prescribed learning materials such as textbooks
- Accommodation costs, where applicable
- Monthly stipend to assist with living expenses
The bursary is awarded for the full duration of the approved qualification, subject to:
- Satisfactory academic performance
- Continued eligibility
- Availability of funds
Renewal is assessed annually, ensuring accountability and academic progress.
Fields of Study and Qualification Focus
The Compensation Fund prioritises qualifications that enable beneficiaries to:
- Re-enter the labour market
- Gain employable and scarce skills
- Become self-employed or independent contractors
Supported Study Areas May Include:
- Engineering and technical trades
- Health and rehabilitation-related fields
- Information technology
- Business and entrepreneurship
- Artisan and vocational skills
Applicants who face academic barriers are not excluded. The Compensation Fund also supports vocational skills programmes, particularly for persons with disabilities who may benefit from practical, skills-based training rather than traditional academic pathways.
Minimum Eligibility and Academic Requirements
To be considered for the 2026 bursary intake, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a COID beneficiary or a qualifying dependent
- Have a valid COID claim or pension number
- Be accepted into a recognised public institution
- Enrol as a full-time student (exceptions may apply for persons with disabilities)
- Demonstrate commitment to academic or vocational progress
Required Documents for Application
Applicants must submit a complete application package. Incomplete applications may be rejected.
Mandatory Documents:
- Fully completed Compensation Fund Bursary Application Form
- Valid COID claim or pension number
- Certified copy of the applicant’s South African ID
- Official acceptance letter from a public TVET, CET, or HEI
Additional Documents (Where Applicable):
- Certified copy of parent or guardian’s ID
- Death certificate (for dependents of deceased workers)
- Medical confirmation of disability from a Health Care Professional or institutional Disability Support Office
All certifications must be recent and clear.
How to Apply for the Compensation Fund Bursary 2026
Step 1: Obtain the Application Form
Applicants can access the bursary application form through:
- The Department of Employment and Labour official website: www.labour.gov.za
- The nearest Provincial Labour Centre
Step 2: Complete the Application
Ensure all sections are filled in accurately and truthfully. Attach all required supporting documents.
Step 3: Submit the Application
Applications can be submitted via the following methods:
Postal or Courier Submission
The Sub-Directorate: Vocational Rehabilitation
Compensation Fund
Private Bag X955
Pretoria
0001
Hand Delivery
- Until December 2025:
Delta Heights Building, 167 Thabo Sehume Street, Pretoria - From January 2026:
Compensation House, Corner of Hamilton and Soutpansberg Road, Prinshof, Pretoria
Email Submission
Applications may also be sent to:
CFexternalbursaries@labour.gov.za
Applicants are encouraged to keep proof of submission.
Important Dates
- Applications Open: January 2026
- Closing Date: 31 March 2026
Late applications are unlikely to be considered.
Why the Compensation Fund Bursary Matters
The Compensation Fund Bursary Programme is more than financial assistance. It represents:
- Social justice for injured workers and their families
- Skills development aligned with economic recovery
- Inclusion of persons with disabilities in education and employment
- Long-term empowerment rather than short-term relief
By investing in education, the programme helps beneficiaries rebuild their lives, regain independence, and contribute meaningfully to South Africa’s economy.
Contact Details for Enquiries
Applicants who require assistance or clarification may contact the Compensation Fund through the following channels:
- Telephone:
(012) 319 9264
(012) 319 5774
(012) 319 9124 - Customer Service (Toll-Free):
0800 321 322
0860 10 5350 - SMS Line:
44967
Our Recommendation
Eligible COID beneficiaries and dependents are strongly encouraged to apply for the Compensation Fund Bursary Programme 2026 intake. With full funding, institutional support, and a focus on employable skills, this bursary provides a genuine opportunity to secure a better future despite the challenges caused by workplace injuries or occupational diseases.
Applying early and submitting complete documentation significantly improves your chances of success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Who qualifies for the Compensation Fund Bursary Programme 2026?
COID beneficiaries with permanent disabilities, dependents of permanently disabled workers, and dependents of deceased workers qualify, provided they meet institutional and documentation requirements.
2. Does the bursary cover university studies?
Yes. The bursary covers studies at public universities, universities of technology, TVET colleges, and CET colleges.
3. Is the bursary renewable each year?
Yes. The bursary is renewable annually, subject to satisfactory academic performance and continued eligibility.
4. Can persons with disabilities study part-time?
Full-time study is generally required, but exceptions may be considered for persons with disabilities under special circumstances.
5. What is the closing date for applications?
The closing date for the 2026 intake is 31 March 2026.
Thato Sabethwa is a passionate education advocate and digital content creator dedicated to helping young South Africans access valuable career and learning opportunities. With a strong belief in the power of skills development, Thato writes informative articles about learnerships, internships, bursaries, and job readiness. Through OnlineLearnership.co.za, Thato aims to guide students and job seekers toward the right opportunities that can shape their future. Her content focuses on practical advice, career tips, and reliable updates to empower readers to make informed decisions about their education and career paths.
