CETA Invites Suitable Applicants to Apply for the Thapelo Madibeng Bursary 2026.
The closing date for applications is 30 January 2026.
What is the Thapelo Madibeng Bursary?
The Thapelo Madibeng Bursary Scheme 2026 is a huge chance for South African students who want to study anything that builds our cities and homes. It is run by the Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA) and gives full financial help so you can focus on your studies instead of worrying about money.
Why This Bursary is Important
South Africa needs more people with skills in construction, engineering, planning and other built‑environment jobs. Many students from families that earn less than R600 000 a year can’t afford university or TVET college. This bursary is designed to fill that gap and help the next generation of builders and designers.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary Name | Thapelo Madibeng Bursary Scheme 2026 |
| Funding Body | CETA |
| Academic Year | 2026 |
| Application Open | 05 January 2026 (08:00) |
| Application Close | 30 January 2026 (00:00) |
| Who Can Apply | Unemployed South African citizens |
| Institutions Covered | Public Universities & TVET Colleges |
| Study Areas | Built‑environment qualifications |
| Application Site | INDICIUM (online only) |
| Email Applications | Not accepted |
What Does the Bursary Cover?
If you win this bursary, you get a bundle of support that can cover almost everything you need:
- Full tuition fees – you don’t pay anything for the courses.
- Required textbooks – all books you need for the program.
- Living costs – a place to stay and meals while you study.
- Transport costs (where conditions allow) – travel to your campus.
- Research allowance – only for Master’s and PhD students, so you can focus on your research without money worries.
With this help, you can concentrate on learning, projects and exams.
Who Can Apply?
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Citizenship | Must be a South African citizen. |
| Employment Status | Must be unemployed at the time of application. |
| School Type | Must be accepted or registered at a public university or TVET college in South Africa. |
| Program | Any built‑environment qualification (e.g., civil engineering, quantity surveying, town planning). |
| Average Grade | Minimum 50 % overall average. |
| Income | Household income must be below R600 000 per year. |
| Private Schools | Students at private institutions are not eligible. |
Documents You Need to Submit
Missing or unclear documents will automatically disqualify you. Make sure you have these ready:
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Matric certificate or first‑year results statement (if you’re a new student).
- Latest tertiary record (for returning students).
- Proof of acceptance from a public institution.
- Certified IDs of parents or guardians.
- Proof of household income (most recent payslip or an affidavit).
- Affidavit confirming you are unemployed.
Tip: Scan documents clearly, save them with a clear name, and upload them on INDICIUM.
How to Apply – Step‑by‑Step
- Open the link: https://indicium.ceta.org.za/Pages/OnlineRegistration/OnlineBursaryRegistration.aspx
- Create an account or log in on INDICIUM.
- Choose “Bursary Application” from the menu.
- Upload all required documents.
- Submit before 30 January 2026.
Important: Only online applications are accepted – no email or paper submissions. The site can get busy, so try to apply early.
What Happens After You Get the Bursary?
Winning this bursary can launch you into a powerful career path in the built environment. Some common progressions are:
- Civil Engineering Technician → Professional Engineer
- Quantity Surveyor → Registered QS (SACQSP)
- Construction Manager → Project Director
- Town Planner → Municipal or Provincial Planner
- Built‑Environment Researcher → Policy Specialist
Many bursary recipients move on to:
- CETA internships
- Industry learnerships
- Registration with professional councils
- Permanent jobs in the field
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I apply without proof of acceptance? | No. Proof of acceptance is mandatory. |
| Can students from TVET colleges apply? | Yes, if the TVET college is public and the program is a built‑environment qualification. |
| Is this bursary the same as NSFAS? | No, it is a separate scheme. |
| Can postgraduate students (Honours, Master’s, PhD) apply? | Yes. Postgraduates also receive a research allowance. |
| How will I know if my application is successful? | If you hear back from CETA within 28 days after the closing date, you have a chance. If not, you may need to reapply next year. |
Final Thoughts
The Thapelo Madibeng Bursary 2026 can change your life if you’re ready to build a future in construction, engineering or planning. Prepare your documents early, double‑check everything, and apply on time. With the right preparation, this scholarship can open a door that stays open for a long career.
Official Verification
| Item | Information |
|---|---|
| Organisation | CETA |
| Source | Official website / career portal |
| Apply via | Online portal (INDICIUM) |
| Reference | CETA_BURSARY2026 |
Note: This assessment is for information only. Always verify details on CETA’s official platform before submitting personal data or payments.
