Eastern Cape Department of Public Works and Infrastructure Bursary

The Eastern Cape Department of Public Works and Infrastructure (ECDPWI) bursary programme supports students from the Eastern Cape province who wish to pursue tertiary qualifications in engineering, built environment and property-related professions. 

The aim is to develop scarce skills aligned with infrastructure and property management in the region. 

The department offers this bursary to provide financial assistance for education, training and skills development of historically disadvantaged South Africans residing in the Eastern Cape. 

It forms part of the department’s strategy to build capacity in infrastructure delivery, maintenance and property management.

Which fields of study are eligible?

Eligible fields for the bursary include engineering sciences and property-related professions. Specific study fields listed for recent rounds include:

1. Architectural Studies (BSc/Masters)
2. Architectural Technology/Interior Design (Diploma/Advanced Diploma)]
3. Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering (BEng/BSc/Diploma)
4. Quantity Surveying/Construction Studies/Town & Regional Planning/Urban Planning
5. Property Valuation Management, Real Estate (Diploma/Advanced Diploma)
6. Land Surveying (Advanced Diploma)

Eastern Cape Department of Public Works and Infrastructure Bursary Eligibility requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria (based on past/2026-26 information):

1. Be a South African citizen and permanently reside in the Eastern Cape province.
2. Have completed Matric (National Senior Certificate) and intend to study full-time towards the eligible qualification at a recognised accredited South African tertiary institution.
3. Be studying or intending to study the eligible fields listed above in the academic year (for example 2026).
4. Not currently receiving another bursary (in some past rounds) and be from a historically disadvantaged background.

What does the bursary cover?

The bursary covers various study-related costs. Past adverts list the provision of: registration fees, tuition fees, study materials, accommodation, meals and a living allowance.

The exact value for 2026 is not always explicitly stated in public summaries — applicants should check the official advert for full details.

How to apply for Eastern Cape Department of Public Works and Infrastructure Bursary

Here are the application steps as indicated for recent cycles:

1. Download or collect the official application form for the 2026 academic year from the ECDPWI website or regional offices.
2. Complete the form and attach all required supporting certified documents: South African ID, Matric certificate or final results, proof of acceptance or registration at the tertiary institution, proof of residence in the Eastern Cape (address letter from Municipal or Traditional Authority), parents/guardians income proof or affidavit.
3. Submit your completed application form and attachments in the manner specified (hand delivery or postal) by the closing date. Note that in past years email or fax submissions were not accepted.
4. Ensure you apply before the deadline (for example early year deadline). Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.

What the selection committee will consider

The selection committee will evaluate:

1. Academic achievement, chosen field of study alignment to the infrastructure/property mandate of the department.
2. Permanent residence in Eastern Cape and full-time study intention in eligible qualification.
3. Demonstration of financial need and not being currently funded by another bursary scheme (in some rounds).
4. Completeness and accuracy of submitted documentation.
5. Commitment to the bursary conditions (which may include service obligation).

Eastern Cape Department of Public Works and Infrastructure Bursary Closing Date

For the 2026 academic year, the closing date in one listing is 20 February 2026.

Applicants must submit before the stated closing time. In earlier years it was 31 January (for the 2026-26 year) at 16:00.

Shortlisted candidates may be contacted after the closing date; non-communication often means application was unsuccessful.