The TuksSport UP Sport Performance Bursary South Africa offers young, talented athletes in South Africa a valuable opportunity to combine sport and education.
What is the TuksSport UP Sport Performance Bursary?
This bursary is a support programme offered by the University of Pretoria (UP), one of South Africa’s most respected universities.
The TuksSport UP Sport Performance Bursary South Africa supports students who show strong performance in sport and are studying full-time at UP.
This support includes:
- Medical assistance and injury care
- Access to scientific and sport testing services
- Fitness and training guidance
- Tactical and technical coaching
- Psychological support to manage stress and pressure
Who is Eligible to Apply?
To apply for the TuksSport UP Sport Performance Bursary South Africa, you must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Be registered as a full-time student at the University of Pretoria for the 2026 academic year
- Show excellent performance in one of the listed sporting disciplines (see below)
- Be committed to training and participating in competitions as required
- Submit a complete application form with all required documents
Sports Included in the Bursary
The bursary covers a wide range of sports. You can only apply for support in one sport. These include:
- Archery
- Athletics
- Badminton
- Basketball
- Canoeing
- Chess
- Cricket
- Cycling
- Fencing
- Football (Soccer)
- Golf
- Gymnastics
- Hockey
- Judo
- Karate
- Netball
- Rowing
- Rugby
- Squash
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Trampoline
- Triathlon
- Volleyball
- Wrestling
What Does the Bursary Cover?
The support includes:
- Professional coaching in your sport
- Fitness and conditioning programmes
- Injury prevention and treatment services
- Sports psychology sessions
- Testing and performance evaluations
- Access to medical and scientific support
Note: This bursary does not pay for your tuition or accommodation costs. It supports your development as an athlete through training and participation benefits.
How are Recipients Selected?
Bursary recipients are chosen based on several factors:
- Need for athletes in specific sports clubs or positions
- National and international sport rankings
- Potential to qualify for international competitions
- Commitment to training and competitions
- Strength of your application and supporting documents
Each sport club within TuksSport has a priority list.
Recommended for you: Essential Documents for a Successful Bursary Application in 2025: Your Ultimate Checklist!
Application Process
Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form
- Visit the TuksSport website.
- Select your specific sport and complete the 2026 Bursary Application Form online.
Step 2: Prepare and Gather the Required Documents
You must submit the following documents with your application:
- Full-length action photograph of yourself (A5 size, jpeg format)
- Grade 11 final results (if you are in Grade 12 now)
- Sports CV, including:
- A history of your performance in sport
- Your training plans, including your Matric exam training if applicable
- Your strong and weak points
- Areas of focus during training
- Other achievements (e.g. cultural, leadership, associations)
- Scanned copy of your application form (you will receive this by email after applying online)
Make sure all documents are clear, accurate, and submitted together. Missing documents may lead to your application being rejected.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Send all your documents by email to: [email protected]
You will receive an acknowledgement email within three weeks.
Application Deadline
All applications must be submitted by 31 July 2025. Late applications will not be accepted.
Also check: FSCA Bursary for Students With Disabilities 2026
How to Ensure Your Bursary Gets Renewed
You must reapply each year. Renewal is not automatic. To have the bursary renewed, you must:
- Show good academic performance
- Show improved sporting performance
- Attend training sessions regularly
- Stay committed to the TuksSport programme
Important Contact Information
If you have any questions, contact TuksSport directly at:
- Telephone: 012 420 6060
- Email: [email protected]
Or speak to the manager of your specific sport’s TuksSport club for direct assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I apply for more than one sport?
No, you may only apply for one sporting code.
Q: Do I need to live in Pretoria to qualify?
You must be a full-time student at the University of Pretoria, but your home location does not matter.
Q: Do I need to be a top national athlete?
Not necessarily. The selection process considers rankings but also looks at potential, dedication, and need within the TuksSport system.
Q: Can I still apply if I have not yet been accepted at UP?
You must be registered as a full-time UP student for 2026. If you are still waiting for acceptance, you may apply, but you will need to confirm registration before receiving the bursary.
