Ruta Sechaba Foundation Scholarship 2026: A Life-Changing Opportunity for South African Learners!

Applications for the Ruta Sechaba Foundation Scholarship for the 2026 academic year are now open. The deadline for submissions is September 15, 2025. These scholarships are for academically or athletically gifted learners entering grades 8 to 11 who require financial assistance.

Eligibility requirements

To be eligible for the scholarship, applicants must meet the following criteria: 

• Be a South African citizen.
• Identify as Black (African, Indian, or Coloured), as defined by the Broad-Based Black Economic Empowerment (B-BBEE) Act.
• Be in grades 8 to 11 during the application year.
• Demonstrate strong academic performance with at least a 65% average in English and Mathematics.
• Show proven excellence in academics or sports.
• Come from a household with a combined gross monthly income not exceeding R45,000.
• Complete and pass a baseline assessment.

How to apply

1. Obtain an application form: The official application forms are available on the Ruta Sechaba Foundation website and may also be distributed through Curro schools.
2. Submit supporting documents: Gather and submit all required documentation, which typically includes:
   • The learner’s birth certificate or ID.
   • The learner’s latest academic progress report.
   • Parents’ or legal guardians’ IDs.
   • Proof of household income.
   • A motivation letter from the learner.
3. Complete the assessment: Applicants must successfully pass a baseline assessment as part of the selection process.
4. Submit the application: Ensure your application is completed and submitted online through the foundation’s portal by the September 15, 2025 deadline.

Important dates

• Applications Open: July 1, 2025
• Application Deadline: September 15, 2025
• Notification of Outcome: If you do not hear from the foundation by October 31, 2025, your application was unsuccessful.