The ELIDZ Bursary is an opportunity for students from the Eastern Cape province to receive financial support for undergraduate study in selected STEM-fields. 

The bursary is offered by the East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ) and aims to build critical skills in the region aligned with industrial development. 

The ELIDZ is a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) located in East London, Eastern Cape, set up to attract industrial investment and to support manufacturing, innovation and export-oriented activity.

The bursary offered by ELIDZ supports students from disadvantaged areas in the province who wish to pursue studies in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) fields.

Which fields of study are eligible?

The bursary is aimed at undergraduates in STEM-related fields such as: mathematics and statistics; physical sciences (physics, chemistry); engineering (chemical, mechanical, electrical); information technology and computer science; and environmental sciences.

The focus is on studies that align with the industrial and technological needs of the province and the ELIDZ’s mission.

East London Industrial Development Zone Bursary Eligibility requirements

To apply for the 2026 ELIDZ bursary you must meet the following criteria:

  1. Be a South African citizen or naturalised citizen.
  2. Be residing in the Eastern Cape province, preferably in a township or rural village.
  3. Have completed your National Senior Certificate (Matric) or be in the final year of Matric and intend to study full time at a South African university.
  4. Be between approximately 16 and 25 years old (past bursary rounds).
  5. Achieve a minimum mark in Mathematics (not Mathematical Literacy) and a suitable average in other subjects; past requirements include a 60% minimum in Mathematics and 60 % overall average.
  6. Demonstrate financial need and provide proof of residence.

What does the bursary cover?

Past bursary rounds indicate that successful applicants may receive support that covers tuition fees, prescribed books, accommodation and meals in university residence.

The 2026 bursary amount is not always publicly stated but earlier rounds listed around R50 000 for one year.

The bursary may be renewable subject to academic performance and conditions.

How to apply for the East London Industrial Development Zone Bursary 

Follow these general steps to apply for the ELIDZ bursary for 2026:

  1. Download or collect the official application form from the ELIDZ website or authorised distribution point.
  2. Complete the form and prepare supporting documents: certified copy of your ID, certified copy of your latest academic results or Matric certificate, proof of residence in the Eastern Cape (utility bill or affidavit), proof of acceptance or provisional admission at a recognised South African university, motivational letter, testimonial from a community member or school principal.
  3. Submit the application by either post, hand delivery, or in some cases by email, to the specified ELIDZ address: Lower Chester Road, Sunnyridge, East London, 5246 (attention may be specified).
  4. Ensure you apply before the closing date. For recent rounds the deadline was 27 January at 16:00.

What the selection committee will consider

When assessing applications the committee will review:

  1. Your academic achievement, especially in Mathematics and STEM-related subjects.
  2. Your residence in the Eastern Cape and whether you come from a township or village and show financial need.
  3. Whether the field of study is aligned with STEM and relevant to regional industrial skills needs.
  4. Completeness and accuracy of submitted documents including proof of admission/enrolment.
  5. Your motivation and commitment to succeed, and any testimonial references provided.

Closing Date for the East London Industrial Development Zone Bursary

Application opens early in the year and closing date historically has been 27 January at 16:00 for the next academic year.

Applicants should verify the official closing date for 2026 directly on the ELIDZ website as it may change.

Shortlisted candidates may be notified soon after the closing date and may need to undergo interviews or progress monitoring.

1. Who is eligible to apply for the ELIDZ Bursary?+
South African citizens residing in the Eastern Cape (especially townships or villages) aged around 16-25 who plan to study full-time in an eligible STEM field may apply.
2. What fields of study are supported by the ELIDZ Bursary?+
STEM-fields including mathematics, physical sciences, engineering, IT/computer science and environmental sciences are supported.
3. What academic performance is required?+
Applicants generally need a minimum of 60 % in Mathematics and an overall average around 60 % in Matric (or equivalent) for prior bursary rounds.
4. What does the bursary cover?+
It may cover tuition fees, prescribed books, accommodation and meals in university residence. The exact value should be verified for 2026.
5. Can the bursary be renewed beyond one year?+
Yes, past rounds indicate the bursary can be renewed provided the student maintains a required average and meets other conditions.
6. When is the closing date for the 2026 intake?+
The closing date historically has been 27 January at 16:00; applicants must check directly with ELIDZ for the exact 2026 date.
7. How do I apply for the bursary?+
Download the application form, complete it, attach certified supporting documents, and submit by post, hand delivery or email to the ELIDZ address before the deadline.
8. What documents do I need to submit?+
You’ll need a certified copy of your ID, Matric certificate or latest academic results, proof of residence, proof of acceptance/enrolment, motivational letter and testimonials.
9. Does the bursary favour financially disadvantaged students?+
Yes, the bursary targets students who demonstrate financial need and come from disadvantaged backgrounds in the Eastern Cape.
10. Who can I contact for more information?+
You can contact ELIDZ at [email protected] or visit their head office at Lower Chester Road, Sunnyridge, East London, 5246.

🎓 Download Our Bursary Application Checklist

Download our free Application Checklist to make sure you do not miss any required documents. Submitting a complete application is key to being shortlisted.

📥 Download Checklist (PDF)