The DTEF Botswana Sponsorship Scholarship 2026/27 is a government initiative that expands access to tertiary education for academically deserving Botswana students. It funds studies at local, regional, and international institutions, covering tuition fees and providing a monthly living allowance to ease the financial burden of higher education.
The Department of Tertiary Education Financing (DTEF), under the Government of Botswana, administers the programme. It focuses on building a skilled national workforce by selecting, placing, and sponsoring students in accredited programmes, while also supporting orphans, vulnerable children, rural area residents, and those with special education needs through relaxed entry requirements.
DTEF Botswana Sponsorship Benefits
- Tuition sponsorship for tertiary education
- Living allowance of P2,200 per month (increased from P1,919.70)
- Placement in accredited local, regional, or international institutions
- Opportunity for top achievers to study overseas
- Support for Orphan & Vulnerable Children (OVC), Rural Area Children (RAC), and Special Education Needs (SEN) applicants with lower entry points
DTEF Botswana Sponsorship Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a Botswana citizen and not gainfully employed
- Must complete studies before reaching age 35
- Attain a minimum of 36 points at secondary education level
- OVC, RAC, and SEN applicants eligible with a minimum of 31 points
- Provide certification from the Social Welfare Office for special categories
- Progression and re‑sponsorship students are not eligible for the 2026/27 cycle
Required Documents
- Loan application form (DTEF 1).
- Admission letter (programme name and duration).
- Certified copy of valid Omang (ID).
- Certified copy of high school results/certificate.
- Affidavit of names (if discrepancies exist).
- Social Inquiry Report (for OVC applicants).
- Confirmation letters for RAC or SEN applicants.
- Financial statement showing no outstanding debts (for re‑sponsorship cases).
How to Apply for DTEF Botswana Sponsorship
- Download and complete the Loan Application Form (DTEF 1)
- Submit the form along with supporting documents (admission letter, certified Omang, results, etc.) to the Department of Tertiary Financing, Block 6, Plot 37893, Universal Estate, Sephatlhaphatlha Road, Gaborone
- Receive an acknowledgement letter confirming receipt of application
- Placement officers assess the application within 10 working days
- Sponsorship letters are issued via the Student Loan Management System (SLMS) upon approval
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are the most frequently asked questions about the DTEF Botswana Sponsorship Scholarship. These answers cover eligibility, benefits, deadlines, and the application process.
What is the DTEF Botswana Sponsorship Scholarship?
It is a government-funded programme that sponsors tertiary education for academically deserving Botswana citizens. It covers tuition fees and provides a monthly living allowance to students studying at local, regional, or international accredited institutions.
Who is eligible for the 2026/27 sponsorship?
Botswana citizens who are not gainfully employed, can complete their studies before turning 35, and have a minimum of 36 points in secondary education. Ovulnerable children, rural area residents, and students with special education needs may apply with 31 points.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline to submit applications is August 7, 2026. Late submissions will not be considered.
How much is the living allowance?
The monthly living allowance has been increased from P1,919.70 to P2,200.00 for the 2026/27 cycle, with plans to raise it further to P2,500.00 as economic conditions improve.
What documents do I need to apply?
Required documents include a completed DTEF 1 loan application form, admission letter, certified copy of Omang (ID), certified copy of high school results, and for special categories a Social Inquiry Report or confirmation letters from relevant authorities.
Can progression or re‑sponsorship students apply?
No, due to fiscal constraints, progression and re‑sponsorship students are not eligible for the 2026/27 sponsorship cycle. Only new students are being considered.
How are applicants selected?
The Placement Division coordinates the selection process, assessing applications within 10 working days against the award criteria. Successful candidates receive sponsorship letters via the Student Loan Management System (SLMS).
Can top achievers study abroad under this sponsorship?
Yes, top achievers with exceptional grades (e.g., 6A*s at BGCSE/IGCSE or 3As at A Levels) may be placed in top international institutions as part of the sponsorship.
Is the sponsorship fully funded?
The sponsorship covers tuition fees and provides a living allowance, but it does not necessarily cover all costs such as travel or personal expenses. It is considered a partially funded government grant.
Where do I submit my application?
Submit the completed DTEF 1 form and supporting documents to the Department of Tertiary Financing at Block 6, Plot 37893, Universal Estate, Sephatlhaphatlha Road, Gaborone.
Discover more from Scholarship Union
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
