2026 APPLICATION FOR 2027 U.S. UNIVERSITY ENTRY
Your potential should not be limited by the cost of applying.
Are you a high-achieving South African student who dreams of studying at a university in the United States but cannot afford the cost of applying?
The EducationUSA Opportunity Funds Program (OFP), supported by the U.S. Mission to South Africa, identifies academically talented and highly motivated students with significant financial need and provides intensive advising and financial support throughout the U.S. university application process.
OFP is designed for students who have the academic potential to compete for admission and substantial financial aid at U.S. colleges and universities, but whose families cannot afford the upfront costs associated with applying.
Selected students work closely with EducationUSA advisers throughout the application process. This includes university research and selection, standardized test preparation where required, application development, essays, financial aid applications, and preparation for the transition to study in the United States.
OFP may cover approved costs associated with the application process, including standardized testing and university application fees.
IMPORTANT: OFP is not a university scholarship.
Participation in the Opportunity Funds Program does not guarantee admission to a U.S. college or university, nor does it guarantee a scholarship or financial assistance.
Our goal is to help highly qualified students develop strong applications to U.S. institutions where they may be competitive for substantial financial aid.
WHO SHOULD APPLY?
We encourage you to apply if you:
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Are a South African citizen or permanent resident;
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Are currently in Grade 12/Matric in 2026 OR completed your NSC or equivalent qualification in 2025 or 2026 and have not enrolled at a university;
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Have a consistently strong academic record;
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Demonstrate intellectual curiosity and a genuine interest in learning;
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Have shown initiative, responsibility, leadership, service, or meaningful engagement in your school, family, workplace, or community;
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Have significant financial need and would not otherwise be able to afford the cost of applying to universities in the United States;
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Are interested in beginning undergraduate study in the United States in August/September 2027;
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Have reliable access to the internet at least several times each month; and
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Are willing to commit significant time and effort to the U.S. university application process.