Are you a South African student who wants to build a career in manufacturing or engineering? If so, the merSETA Bursary Programme may help you achieve your goals.
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The bursary is funded by the Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (merSETA). Its main purpose is to support skilled students and increase participation in key technical industries that are vital to South Africa’s economy.
About the merSETA Bursary
The merSETA Bursary provides financial support to academically capable students who are unable to fund their studies on their own. The bursary focuses on qualifications linked to the manufacturing and engineering sectors.
Fields supported by the bursary include:
- Metal and Engineering
- Automotive Manufacturing
- Retail Motor and Component Manufacturing
- New Tyre Manufacturing
- Plastics Industries
The bursary may cover the following costs:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Prescribed learning materials
- A monthly allowance for living expenses
In some cases, bursary recipients may also receive internship or workplace exposure opportunities through merSETA-affiliated companies.
merSETA Bursary Application Process
Applications for the merSETA Bursary are usually submitted online through the official merSETA website. Application periods may differ each year, so applicants are encouraged to monitor announcements regularly.
General Application Steps
- Visit the official merSETA website
- Locate the bursary application section or current bursary announcements
- Download and complete the application form
- Prepare all required documents, including:
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Latest academic results or transcripts
- Proof of financial need
- Submit the completed application according to the instructions provided
Late or incomplete applications are usually not considered.
merSETA Bursary Requirements
To qualify for the merSETA Bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must demonstrate financial need
- Must be accepted or planning to register for a full-time undergraduate qualification in a merSETA-supported field
- Must study at a recognised South African university or college
- Must have a good academic record
- Must show commitment to working in the manufacturing or engineering sector in South Africa
merSETA Bursary Closing Date
The closing date for the merSETA Bursary generally falls in the second half of the year. Exact dates are announced per bursary cycle.
Applicants are advised to:
- Regularly check the merSETA website
- Follow merSETA’s official social media platforms
- Revisit this page for updates when applications open
merSETA Contact Details
For further information about the bursary programme, you may contact merSETA directly:
- Telephone: +27 10 219 3000
- Email: bursaries@merseta.org.za
🎓 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)