Emalahleni Local Municipality Bursary Requirements, Application and Closing Dates

The Emalahleni Local Municipality bursary scheme is aimed at residents of the municipality who wish to pursue full-time undergraduate studies but face financial constraints. 

The programme seeks to develop local skills and align studies with the region’s developmental priorities. 

The Emalahleni Local Municipality offers an external bursary program that provides financial assistance for South African citizens residing within the Emalahleni jurisdiction who wish to study full-time at a public university or TVET college.

It is part of the Emalahleni Local Municipality’s youth-development and skills-investment strategy.

Which fields of study are eligible?

The bursary prioritises undergraduate studies in fields deemed important for local service-delivery and development. 

The eligible areas for the 2026 cycle include (but may not be limited to):

1. Civil Engineering
2. Electrical Engineering
3. Mechanical Engineering
4. Urban and Regional Planning
5. Analytical Chemistry
6. Horticulture
7. Microbiology
8. Environmental Management
9. Water and Sanitation
10. Disaster Management
11. Finance and Law (in some calls)

Applicants should check the official 2026 advert for the exact list of eligible fields.

Emalahleni Local Municipality Bursary Eligibility Requirements

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

1. Be a South African citizen residing within the Emalahleni Local Municipality area.
2. Be between the ages of 18 and 35 years.
3. Be from a historically disadvantaged background and demonstrate financial need (proof of household income required).
4. Have completed Matric (Grade 12) or be in a position to enroll full-time at a recognised public university or TVET college in South Africa.
5. Be registered, or intend to register, for full-time undergraduate study in an eligible field.

What does the bursary cover?

While the exact value for 2026 is not publicly detailed, the bursary typically covers:

1. Tuition and registration fees for the full-time undergraduate qualification.
2. Prescribed textbooks and study-related materials (depending on the applicant’s circumstances).
   The bursary may come with a service agreement requiring the recipient to commit to certain terms with the Municipality.

Emalahleni Local Municipality Bursary Application 

Here is the general application process:

1. Download or collect the official application form and bursary advertisement for 2026 from the Emalahleni Local Municipality’s website or Youth Development Unit.
2. Prepare your application form and attach the required supporting documents, which typically include:
   • Certified copy of South African ID.
   • Latest school report, Matric certificate or statement of results (if applicable).
   • An academic transcript if already in tertiary study.
   • Proof of provisional acceptance at a public university or TVET college.
   • Proof of residence within the municipal area (municipal account or affidavit).
   • Proof of household income (payslips, affidavit if unemployed, or SASSA grant proof).
3. Submit the completed form and attachments by hand (email/fax not accepted) to:
   Youth Development Unit
   Emalahleni Local Municipality
   Civic Centre – 2nd Floor
   Corner Mandela & Street, eMalahleni 1035.
4. Ensure submission before the closing date (22 November 2026 for 2026 cycle).

What the selection committee will consider

The selection panel will evaluate:

1. Whether the applicant meets all eligibility criteria (residence, citizenship, age, and field).
2. Academic merit and potential (Matric results or tertiary record).
3. Field relevance (chosen study must align with eligible areas).
4. Financial need and completeness of documentation.
5. Willingness to sign the bursary agreement and commit to any service obligations.

Closing Date for the Emalahleni Local Municipality Bursary 

The closing date for the 2026 external bursary is 22 November 2026.

Applications submitted after the closing date or incomplete are typically not considered.

Only successful candidates will be contacted; if you have not heard within 30 days after the closing date, assume you were not selected.