Careers · Health & social services

How to become a social worker in South Africa

Social workers help people through hard times: children who are not safe, families with problems, and people who are sick or sad.

From R 24 000/mo · median ~R 32 000In demand
Starting payR 24 000/mo
Study time4 years
QualificationDegree, NQF 7
Register withSACSSP
DemandIn demand

What it costs and how to pay

The degree costs about R35,000 to R60,000 a year at a university. NSFAS and the government bursary can pay this for you. The Higher Certificate in Social Auxiliary Work costs less and is shorter.

South Africa needs more social workers. So there is good money help. Most students use one of these.

NSFAS

NSFAS pays for your fees, your room, and some money to live on. Your family must earn under R350,000 a year.

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Government social work bursary

The government has a bursary just for social work. It pays for fees, room, books, and food. After you finish, you work for the government for a few years.

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Other bursaries

Some provinces, non-profit groups, and universities also give social work bursaries.

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Ready to apply?

When you have picked a way in, apply before the closing date.

Questions people ask