Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the 2024 SBF High School Scholarship 2026

Applying for a scholarship can be a daunting process, but it can also be the key to unlocking your future potential. The Students For A Better Future (SBF) High School Scholarship Programme is a fantastic opportunity for students in Cape Town entering Grade 8 in 2026. This guide will walk you through the application process step-by-step, ensuring you have all the information you need to successfully apply.

ABOUT THE SCHOLARSHIP PROVIDER – SBF

The Students For A Better Future (SBF) is a high school scholarship programme formed and funded by the Andreas and Susan Struengmann Foundation. Established in 2007, the Foundation sponsors educational initiatives in the Western Cape, including the Sue Struengmann Initiative at the University of Cape Town (UCT) and funding the Disa Primary School in Imizamo Yethu, Hout Bay. The Foundation aims to develop well-rounded and goal-oriented individuals who will contribute positively to South Africa’s future and become global citizens.

ABOUT THE SBF HIGH SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME

Students For A Better Future (SBF) invites students in Cape Town to apply for their high school scholarship for the 2026 academic year. The scholarship targets students entering Grade 8 in 2026 (currently in Grade 6 in 2024) who demonstrate strong academics and are in financial need. Scholars will be placed in one of SBF’s partner high schools within the Cape Town Metropole, which include:

Bergvliet High School
Camps Bay High School
Claremont High School
Groote Schuur High School
Herschel Girls High School
Rondebosch Boys High School
Rustenberg Girls High School
SACS (South African College) High School
Springfield Convent Senior School
St. George’s Grammar School
Westerford High School
Wynberg Boys High School
Wynberg Girls High School

SBF’s dedicated curriculum supports the development of key attributes and future skills through a holistic programme encompassing psychosocial support, tutoring, boarding, sports, culture, and service. Selection is based on financial need and academic performance.

ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE SBF HIGH SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

Reside in Cape Town, Western Cape, within a 25-kilometer radius of the SBF Newlands Office (Letterstedt House Newlands on Main, Newlands)
Be interested in joining one of the SBF partner schools listed above
Be in Grade 6 in 2024
Be entering Grade 8 in 2026
Have achieved a minimum overall average of 65% in Grade 5 final and Grade 6 term 2 assessments
Have achieved a minimum result of 65% for Mathematics in Grade 5 final and Grade 6 term 2 assessments
Have achieved a minimum result of 70% for English in Grade 5 final and Grade 6 term 2 assessments
Be in financial need, with a household income not exceeding R17 000 (1 child), R20 000 (2 children), or R23 000 (3 or more children)
Display characteristics such as self-management ability, growth mindset, critical thinking, goal orientation, and resilience

HOW TO APPLY FOR THE SBF HIGH SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP

Applications must be submitted online at: SBF High School Scholarship Application 2026

Submit the following supporting documentation:

South African citizens: unabridged birth certificate
Non-South African residents: birth certificate and proof of study visa
Grade 5 final report
Grade 6 term 2 report
Parents or guardians’ ID documents
Parents or guardians’ visa or proof of residency, if not South African citizens
Parents or guardians’ proof of household income:
- If employed: 3 most recent salary slips and 3 months bank statements
- If self-employed: 6 months bank statements
- If receiving a SASSA grant: proof of this
- If unemployed: affidavit stating duration and reason for unemployment
- If one or both parents are not present or uninvolved: affidavit confirming this
- If one or both parents are deceased: death certificate(s)
Essay on the topic: Write about a time in your life that has shaped who you are as a person (350 words)

Shortlisted candidates may be required to submit additional documents.

SELECTION PROCESS FOR THE SBF HIGH SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP

The selection process includes:

Stage 1 (Applications): Submit applications between 14 June and 30 August 2024.
Stage 2 (Screening): Receive feedback in September 2024.
Stage 3 (Online Testing): Psychosocial and academic assessment on 28 September 2024.
Stage 4 (Entrance Exam): Academic testing on 12 October 2024, focusing on English and Mathematics.
Stage 5 (Family Interviews): Social workers visit applicants and their families in November and December 2024.
Stage 6 (Scholarship Offer): Successful candidates are offered scholarships in February 2025.

Successful candidates will undertake a 7-month preparatory programme during their Grade 7 year, supporting their transition into high school.