Eastern Cape Office of the Premier (ECOTP) Bursary Requirements and How to Apply

The ECOTP bursary is a funding opportunity offered by the Eastern Cape provincial government for students residing in the province who wish to pursue tertiary qualifications in fields aligned with priority skills for economic and service-delivery development. 

The programme aims to empower unemployed youth and build capacity in sectors critical for the province’s development plan. 

The bursary is administered by the Office of the Premier in the Eastern Cape and is targeted at South African citizens living in the province who are ready to begin or already enrolled in a recognised Diploma or Degree in a qualifying field. 

It emphasises support for skills that tie into the province’s economic development agenda, particularly those aligned with the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (MerSETA) priority skills.

Which fields of study are eligible?

The bursary supports a range of fields. Typical eligible fields (in recent cycles) include:

1. Actuarial Science
2. Engineering (Chemical, Electrical, Industrial, Materials, Mechanical, Metallurgy)
3. Finance
4. Human Resources Management
5. Information & Communication Technology (ICT)
6. Manufacturing, Polymer Technology, Production & Operations Management, Supply Chain/Logistics

Applicants should check the latest official advert for the full list of eligible fields for the 2026 round.

ECOTP Bursary Eligibility requirements

To apply for the 2026 ECOTP bursary you must meet these criteria (based on latest available cycles):

1. Be a South African citizen residing in the Eastern Cape province.
2. Be between 18 and 35 years old.
3. Be unemployed (in most recent rounds) at the time of application.
4. Be studying or intend to study a recognised Diploma or Degree in one of the eligible fields at an accredited South African university or university of technology.
5. Not already be receiving another form of government funding or full bursary for the same qualification (in past rounds).
6. Preference is given to applicants from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and who demonstrate willingness to contribute to the province’s service sector or economy after studies.

What does the bursary cover?

While specific value and components for 2026 may vary and should be confirmed in the official advertisement, recent information indicates that applicants will receive funding that covers at least tuition and/or registration expenses for the eligible qualification. 

Supporting documents list proof of registration at the tertiary institution. 

The full extent (books, accommodation, living allowance) depends on the terms for that year.

ECOTP Bursary application process

Here is the typical application process:

1. Collect or download the official application instructions when the bursary call opens on the ECOTP website or via its youth/skills unit.
2. Prepare required documents such as: certified copy of South African ID, certified Matric certificate or equivalent, latest academic record, proof of registration or conditional admission at a recognised tertiary institution, proof of other financial assistance if any.
3. Submit your application by email to the addresses indicated in the call (for example [email protected] or other email addresses provided). Include subject lines such as “ECOTP Bursary 2026”.
4. Ensure your application is submitted before the stated closing date (late applications are not considered).
5. Keep a copy of everything you submit and monitor email/phone for any follow-up.

What the selection committee will consider

When reviewing applications the selection panel will assess:

1. Whether you meet all eligibility criteria (residence, age, unemployment status).
2. Whether your chosen field of study is among those the bursary supports.
3. Your academic record, registration status, and likelihood of completing the qualification.
4. Your motivation and willingness to contribute to the provincial economy or service sector after studies.
5. Whether you are receiving another government funding scheme already (if so may be disqualified).
6. Completeness and accuracy of your documentation and application.

Closing Date for the ECOTP Bursary 

In past years the closing date for this bursary was 15 April (for example 2024 cycle).

For the 2026 intake you should confirm the exact closing date in the official advertisement issued by the ECOTP.

Submit your application well ahead of time to avoid last-minute issues.