Railway Safety Regulator Bursary 2026 – Open to South African Students
The Railway Safety Regulator invites qualified applicants to apply for its 2026 Bursary Programme. The closing date for applications is 23 December 2025.
Quick Overview
| What | Details |
|---|---|
| Who can apply? | South Africans aged 15–35, recent school leavers or current university students |
| Fields of study | Engineering, IT, Human Resources, Media & Communications, Law, Finance, Internal Audit, Supply Chain Management, Risk Management |
| Where to study? | Accredited TVET colleges, universities, and universities of technology |
| Minimum grade requirement | 65 % average for first‑year applicants (Grade 11/12 mid‑year results) |
| Application portal | www.rsr.org.za/careers |
| Contact email | bursaries@rsr.org.za |
| Funding type | Full or partial bursary, depending on budget |
What is the Railway Safety Regulator?
The Railway Safety Regulator is a public body set up by the Railway Safety Act of 2024. Its main job is to keep all railway operations in South Africa safe. It checks that:
- Passenger and freight rail companies follow safety rules
- Cross‑border train services meet safety standards
- Maintenance, engineering and infrastructure teams work correctly
- Contractors and other service providers do not compromise safety
By offering bursaries, the regulator is investing in the next generation of engineers, safety experts, auditors, IT pros and other leaders who will keep the country’s railways running smoothly.
Study Areas Covered
Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
Engineering keeps the tracks, signals and trains working.
Information Technology
- Cyber‑security
- System analysis
- Software development
- Data analysis
- IT support
IT keeps the rail system connected and protected from cyber threats.
Human Resources
Future HR officers, recruiters and managers.
Media & Communications
Public relations, marketing, journalism and corporate communications.
Law
Legal officers, compliance specialists and regulatory advisors.
Finance & Audit
Accountants, financial analysts and internal auditors.
Supply Chain Management
Procurement and logistics roles that keep railway supplies moving.
Risk Management
Planning to avoid and control risks in railway operations.
Eligibility Rules
- Be a South African citizen – you need a valid ID.
- You must not already be receiving another bursary or sponsorship.
- You should be enrolled or accepted into an accredited institution (TVET college, university, university of technology or a private accredited school).
- First‑year applicants need at least 65 % in Grade 11/12 mid‑year results.
- Returning students must submit the latest academic record.
- You must be ready to attend an interview if invited.
- You must sign a bursary agreement that outlines your responsibilities.
What Documents Do You Need?
- Certified copy of your admission or registration letter.
- Certified copy of your official academic record (for tertiary students).
- Grade 11 or Grade 12 mid‑term results (for matric applicants).
- Certified South African ID.
- Motivational letter – explain why you need this bursary and why you want to study your chosen field.
- Official tuition fee quote for 2026.
All copies must be recent and certified.
How to Apply – Step by Step
- Go to the RSR Careers page – use the online application form.
- Fill in the form carefully – double‑check your spelling, grades and personal details.
- Gather all required documents – have them certified and ready.
- Write a strong motivational letter – talk about your passion, your financial needs, how the bursary will change your life, and why you chose your field.
- Submit before 23 December 2025 – late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Career Paths After the Bursary
Engineering
- Railway Safety Engineer
- Infrastructure Technician
- Rolling Stock Technician
- Signal and Systems Engineer
- Civil Engineer (Rail Track)
IT
- IT Support Technician
- Systems Analyst
- Cybersecurity Practitioner
- Database Administrator
Law & Compliance
- Legal Officer
- Compliance Specialist
- Regulatory Advisor
Finance & Audit
- Accountant
- Auditor
- Budget Analyst
- Internal Control Specialist
Supply Chain & Risk
- Procurement Officer
- Supply Chain Analyst
- Risk Officer
Media & HR
- Communications Practitioner
- HR Generalist
- Recruitment Specialist
These roles can lead to work with PRASA, Transnet, private rail companies, government departments and international transport firms.
Tips to Make Your Application Stand Out
- Start early – the deadline is 23 December, but begin now.
- Tell your story – challenges, dreams, and why railway safety matters to you.
- Keep your grades steady – show you’re committed.
- Apply for multiple bursaries – don’t rely on just one chance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the bursary cover full tuition?
Coverage depends on budget. It may be full or only a portion of the cost.Can TVET college students apply?
Yes, if the program is accredited.What is the minimum mark?
First‑year applicants need at least 65 %.Is there a work‑back requirement?
Terms are in the bursary agreement. Some years may require a period of work after graduation.Can I apply if I’m already funded by NSFAS?
No – you cannot receive another bursary or sponsorship.Do you cover accommodation and textbooks?
Depends on your needs and the regulator’s budget.What if I’m older than 35?
Only ages 15–35 are eligible.Can I apply for postgraduate studies?
No – this bursary is for undergraduate programmes only.What happens if I fail a module?
Report it to the bursary office. Support will be based on the agreement.When will winners be announced?
Usually early in the next academic year, between January and February.
Important Notes
- The regulator may change or cancel the bursary at any time.
- Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
- Your personal information is protected under the POPIA Act.
Apply today, turn your dream into a career, and help keep South Africa’s trains safe and moving. Good luck!
