NERSA Bursary Programme 2026: Who Can Apply and How to Apply
About NERSA
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) is a regulatory authority established in terms of Section 3 of the National Energy Regulator Act, 2004 (Act No. 40 of 2004). NERSA regulates the electricity, piped-gas and petroleum pipelines industries in accordance with the Electricity Regulation Act, 2006 (Act No. 4 of 2006), Gas Act, 2001 (Act No. 48 of 2001), and Petroleum Pipelines Act, 2003 (Act No. 60 of 2003).
About the NERSA Bursary 2026
NERSA is offering bursaries to students pursuing postgraduate qualifications aligned with its regulatory mandate. The bursary is available to students studying towards a Master’s or PhD Degree in fields relevant to the regulation of electricity, piped-gas and petroleum pipeline industries.
Fields of Study Funded
Bursaries are awarded for postgraduate studies (Master’s and PhD) in disciplines relevant to:
- Electricity regulation
- Piped-gas regulation
- Petroleum pipelines regulation
- Energy policy and regulatory studies
What the Bursary Covers
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Prescribed books
- Laptop allowance
The approved bursary amount will be determined through a financial means test within the minimum and maximum assistance limits.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following minimum criteria:
- Be a South African citizen with a valid ID
- Be admitted to a recognised South African university or university of technology
- Be studying towards a Master’s or PhD Degree
- Be a previously disadvantaged South African
- Have an excellent academic record
- Demonstrate strong academic potential
- Not be a recipient of another bursary scheme
- Demonstrate proven financial need
Important: Failure to meet all eligibility requirements will result in automatic disqualification.