| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Primary Focus | STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) and Commerce degrees |
| Core Financial Requirement | Household income ≤ R200,000 per annum (before deductions) |
| Key Academic Requirement | Minimum 70% in English, Maths, and Physical Science/Accounting |
| Application Deadline | 31 December 2025 for the 2026 academic year |
| Application Method | Online via the official Moshal Program portal |
Why Apply for the Moshal Scholarship Program South Africa?
Many scholarship programs offer financial aid, but the Moshal Program distinguishes itself through a comprehensive, wraparound support model designed to ensure students not only enter university but thrive and graduate. It is an investment in your holistic development.
1. Comprehensive Financial and Developmental Support
The scholarship covers the significant costs of tuition, accommodation, and meals, removing the primary barrier to education. Beyond this, it includes a laptop allowance and living stipends, allowing you to focus wholly on your studies without the stress of financial hardship.
2. Personalized Guidance and Mentorship
Each scholar receives dedicated support from a Program Coordinator assigned to their specific university. This coordinator acts as a personal guide, helping you navigate academic challenges, access resources, and adjust to university life. This one-on-one support is a cornerstone of the program’s high success and low dropout rates.
3. Career Readiness and Professional Network
Moshal prepares you for life after graduation. The program provides professional workshops, soft-skills training, CV writing assistance, and mock interviews. You will gain career guidance and opportunities to meet potential employers, giving you a significant advantage in the job market. The program boasts a robust alumni network of over 1,200 graduates working in top companies and hospitals, offering a powerful community for mentorship and networking.
Are You Eligible? Understanding the Core Requirements
Before beginning your application, you must thoroughly assess your eligibility. The Moshal Program has specific, non-negotiable criteria designed to identify students who will benefit most from their unique support model.
Financial Need
Your total annual household income (before any deductions) must not exceed R200,000. This threshold is strictly enforced to ensure the scholarship reaches students from disadvantaged socioeconomic backgrounds who demonstrate significant financial need.
Academic Excellence
You must have achieved a minimum score of 70% in your final matric results for English, Mathematics, and either Physical Science or Accounting. This requirement underscores the program’s focus on supporting students pursuing demanding STEM and Commerce degrees where a strong foundation in these subjects is critical.
University and Degree Program
You must have applied for and secured admission (or provisional admission) to one of Moshal’s partner universities for an approved degree. The program supports a select list of institutions and fields, which are subject to change. Always verify the latest list on the official website, but as of the 2026 cycle, they include:
- Universities: University of Cape Town (UCT), University of the Witwatersrand (WITS), Stellenbosch University (SUN), University of Pretoria (UP), University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), University of Johannesburg (UJ), University of the Western Cape (UWC), Rhodes University, and Nelson Mandela University.
- Fields of Study: Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Engineering, Computer Science, Data Science, Actuarial Science, Accounting, Economics, and related STEM and Commerce fields.
An application for a degree or university not on the official list will not be considered.
Step-by-Step Guide on How To Apply for Moshal Scholarship Program South Africa 2026
Once you have confirmed your eligibility, follow this detailed step-by-step process to prepare and submit a complete application.
Step 1: Gather Your Documentation (Early Preparation)
Do not wait until the deadline approaches. Collecting and certifying your documents takes time. You will need to upload clear, legible copies of the following mandatory documents:
- Your certified South African ID document (or passport and study visa if not a citizen).
- Certified copies of your parents’ or guardians’ ID documents.
- Your final Grade 11 results and your Grade 12 June results (if currently in Matric).
- Proof of household income: This can be official SASSA grant letters, your parents’ or guardians’ most recent three months’ bank statements from all accounts, or a sworn affidavit if they do not have a bank account.
- A signed Parental/Guardian Consent Form if you are under 18 years old.
If you are shortlisted, you will later be asked to submit additional documents like your final Matric results, university acceptance letter, and your National Benchmark Test (NBT) scores. Having them ready shows exceptional organization.
Step 2: Access the Official Online Portal
All applications must be submitted through the official Moshal Program scholarship application portal. Be wary of third-party websites. The correct portal is hosted on the Moshal Program’s official domain. You will need to create an account to begin your application.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form with Care
The online form will ask for detailed personal, academic, and financial information. Fill in every section accurately and honestly.
- Personal Details: Ensure your name matches your official ID.
- Academic History: Enter your school and subject results precisely as they appear on your official statements.
- Financial Information: Provide complete and truthful details about your family’s financial situation. Any discrepancy can lead to disqualification.
- University Application Details: Have your chosen degree program and university details on hand. You will need to specify what you have applied for and your application status.
The portal allows you to save your progress. Use this feature—do not rush to submit in one sitting. Review your entries over multiple sessions for errors.
Step 4: Upload Documents and Final Review
Upload each required document in the specified format and size. Double-check that every file is clear, complete, and the correct document. A blurry ID copy or missing bank statement page can jeopardize an otherwise strong application. Before clicking submit, review the entire application one last time. Once submitted, you typically cannot make any changes.
Step 5: Submit Before the Deadline and Note Confirmation
The absolute closing date for the 2026 intake is 31 December 2025. Aim to submit at least a week earlier to avoid last-minute technical issues or internet problems. After submitting, you should receive an on-screen confirmation and/or an email acknowledgment. Keep this for your records. If you do not receive any confirmation, consider following up via the official contact email.
Step 6: The Interview and Selection Process
If your written application is successful, you will be invited to an in-person interview. This is a critical part of the selection. The interview assesses your motivation, resilience, communication skills, and alignment with the program’s values. Prepare to discuss your academic goals, personal challenges, and why you believe the Moshal model is right for you. Successful candidates from the interview stage will receive a final offer.
Tips for a Strong and Competitive Application
- Start Early: This cannot be overstated. Beginning months in advance gives you time to request certified documents, follow up on university applications, and craft thoughtful responses.
- Attention to Detail: Treat the application like a major university assignment. Proofread for spelling and grammar, ensure numbers are correct, and follow all formatting instructions exactly.
- Be Authentic in Your Motivation: While academic scores are vital, the program seeks determined individuals. In any motivational questions, be genuine about your journey, your challenges, and how you plan to use the opportunity to impact your community.
- Prepare for the Interview: If shortlisted, practice articulating your story and ambitions. Research the Moshal Program’s work and be ready to explain how you will contribute to and benefit from their community.
- Use Official Channels for Queries: If you have questions during the process, contact the program directly at southafrica@moshalprogram.org or selection@moshalprogram.org. Avoid unverified sources of information.
Key Action Item: Mark the deadline of 31 December 2025 in your calendar and begin gathering your documents now. Your future self will thank you for the diligence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I apply if I haven’t received my final university acceptance yet?
Yes, you can and should apply if you have a provisional acceptance or have applied and are awaiting a response. You will need to provide proof of your application. If shortlisted, you must present a final acceptance letter later in the process.
Does Moshal offer scholarships for postgraduate studies?
The primary focus of the Moshal Scholarship Program is on undergraduate degree studies. The available information for the 2026 cycle indicates support for Degree studies. It is advisable to confirm any potential postgraduate opportunities directly with the program.
What if my household income is slightly above R200,000?
The R200,000 threshold is a strict eligibility criterion. Applications from households with an income above this limit will not be considered. The program’s mandate is to support students from clearly defined disadvantaged backgrounds.
Is the scholarship renewable each year?
Continued funding is typically contingent on maintaining satisfactory academic progress and adhering to the program’s standards of conduct. The holistic support is designed to help you succeed throughout your degree.
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