About This Bursary
Applications Now Open
Applications for the 2026 academic year are officially open, with a strict closing date of 15 February 2026. Students are encouraged to apply early, as late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
This bursary is not only a funding mechanism but also a strategic provincial investment. In some cases, successful recipients may be required to enter into a work-back or service agreement after completing their studies.
Who Should Apply?
Eligibility Requirements
While final criteria may vary depending on the administering department, applicants generally must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be a resident of KwaZulu-Natal
- Come from a financially disadvantaged household
- Have strong academic results
- Be accepted or registered at a recognised public university, TVET college, or accredited institution
- Be studying in a field aligned with provincial priority skills
Preference is often given to first-year students; however, continuing students with good academic performance may also be considered.
Fields of Study Funded
Priority Skills Areas
The KwaZulu-Natal Government Bursary prioritises qualifications that address critical skills shortages in the province, including:
- Engineering (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial)
- Health Sciences (Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Allied Health)
- Education and Teaching
- Information Technology and Computer Science
- Agriculture and Environmental Studies
- Built Environment (Quantity Surveying, Town Planning)
- Finance, Economics, and Supply Chain Management
- Public Administration and Governance
Note: Applicants should confirm that their chosen qualification is included in the 2026 funded list, as priority areas may change based on provincial needs.
What Does the Bursary Cover?
Bursary Benefits
Successful applicants may receive funding covering some or all of the following:
- Tuition fees (paid directly to the institution)
- Prescribed textbooks and study materials
- Accommodation (institutional residence or approved private housing)
- Monthly living allowance
- Other approved academic-related expenses
Funding is typically awarded for one academic year and may be renewed annually based on academic performance and availability of funds.
Closing Date
15 February 2026
Applications received after this date will not be accepted under any circumstances.
Application Method
Manual Application Process
The KwaZulu-Natal Government Bursary currently uses a manual (offline) application process. There is no fully online application system available at this time. Applicants must ensure all required documents are completed and submitted according to official instructions.