Sage

About Sage in South Africa

Sage is a global technology company that makes accounting, payroll and business management software. It has a significant presence in South Africa. Many local small and medium businesses rely on its products to manage their money and their staff.

A software company depends on strong technical and financial skills. For that reason, Sage invests in education through its External Bursary Programme. StudyTrust, an experienced bursary administrator, runs the programme on behalf of Sage.

How Sage supports students

The Sage Bursary focuses on the fields that feed directly into its business. These are computer science, engineering, information technology, and accounting and finance (BCom). Students with disabilities are an important exception. They may apply for study in any field, at undergraduate or postgraduate level.

The funding covers tuition, residence or private accommodation, stationery and books, an allowance and a laptop. Each of these items has a cap, so the bursary may not pay every rand. Check the current guidelines on the StudyTrust site for the exact limits.

The programme also speaks to the so-called missing middle. Sage asks for a family income of about R350 000 to R600 000 a year. These families earn too much for many need-based schemes, yet they still struggle to pay university fees. As a result, the Sage programme fills a real gap.

No formal work-back obligation applies. Sage presents the bursary as a broad investment in skills and not as a recruitment contract.

Students who join the programme gain more than money. A degree in computer science, information technology or accounting leads to work in banks, software companies and consulting firms. Because Sage serves accountants and small business owners, graduates in these fields also learn to understand how real businesses run. That practical view can help you stand out when you apply for your first job.

What to know before applying

Applicants must be South African citizens and previously disadvantaged individuals. They must also have applied to, or been admitted by, a public university. Students already at university normally need an average of at least 65%. Grade 12 learners need strong marks in Mathematics and Physical Science. Exceptions apply for applicants with disabilities.

Applications run through the StudyTrust online platform. In recent years, the window ran from 1 June to 30 September, and successful applicants received funding for the following year. Dates can change, so check the StudyTrust website for the current cycle.

Prepare your ID, academic results, proof of household income and proof of application or admission in advance. StudyTrust can answer questions at apply@StudyTrust.org.za.