Apply Today for NERSA 2026 Bursary Programme – Fast‑Track Your Energy Sector Career
National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for its NERSA Bursary 2026 vacancies.
The closing date for applications is 12 February 2026.
What is the NERSA Bursary 2026?
NERSA is a government body that keeps South Africa’s electricity, piped‑gas and petroleum pipeline systems safe and efficient.
They have opened a scholarship for students who want to study a Master’s or a PhD that helps the country better manage its energy future.
The bursary will cover:
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Registration & tuition | Fees for your university course |
| Accommodation | Your living costs while you study |
| Books or a laptop | All the learning tools you need |
When to apply – 12 February 2026
How to send your application – by e‑mail or post (see below)
Contact – 012 401 4600 (Ms Lena Rankhumise or Mr Nkanyiso Magwaza)
Who can apply?
- South African citizen – you must hold a valid ID.
- Accepted into a Master’s or PhD programme – you need an official letter from a South African university or university of technology.
- Previously disadvantaged student – a requirement set by NERSA.
- Good academic record – high grades and any awards or research experience.
- No other bursary – you cannot already be receiving another scholarship.
- Real financial need – proof that you cannot pay the fees alone.
If any of these points are missing, your application will not be considered.
Which subjects are welcomed?
NERSA wants research that helps manage electricity, gas and petroleum pipelines.
Examples of relevant topics:
- Energy economics and pricing
- Regulation and policy analysis
- Energy governance and compliance
- Planning and building new energy infrastructure
- Electricity market systems
- Environmental and sustainability rules for energy
- Engineering research on power transmission or distribution
- Public administration in energy regulation
Even if your degree name doesn’t say “energy”, you can still apply if your research ties to any of these areas.
How to apply – step by step
Gather the mandatory documents
- Motivation letter (~500 words)
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Admission letter for your Master’s or PhD
- Certified transcript of your highest qualification
- Dissertation topic and short abstract
- Proof of household income (e.g., parents’ payslips)
- Certified ID copies of the people linked to the income proof
Create a single PDF – put the documents in this order:
- Motivation letter
- ID copy
- Admission letter
- Transcript
- Dissertation topic + abstract
- Proof of income
- ID copies of household members
Send before the deadline – 12 February 2026.
- Email: bursaries@nersa.org.za
- Post:
National Energy Regulator of South Africa – Human Resources Department
PO Box 40343, Arcadia, Pretoria 0007 - Hand‑delivery: Kulawula House, 526 Madiba Street, Arcadia, Pretoria 0007
Missing any document will mean your application is rejected.
Helpful Tips to Strengthen Your Application
- Apply early – avoid last‑minute technical glitches.
- Keep documents clear – blurry scans can be turned down.
- Connect your topic – show how your research will help regulate energy services.
- Write a structured motivation letter –
- Intro: who you are, your university, and your programme.
- Research: what you study and why it matters for energy regulation.
- Achievements: grades, awards, previous projects.
- Financial need: explain why you need help.
- Future plans: how the bursary will let you contribute to the energy sector.
- Verify certifications – only certified copies are accepted.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Does NERSA fund undergraduate studies? | No – only Master’s and PhD. |
| Can I apply without an admission letter? | No – you must have a confirmed place in a programme. |
| What if I already have a different bursary? | You cannot apply; only one bursary is allowed. |
| What costs does the bursary cover? | Registration, tuition, accommodation, required books or laptop. |
| What happens if I send incomplete documents? | Your application will be ignored. |
| Where do I send my application? | Email, post or hand‑delivery – see the contact details above. |
| When is the closing date? | 12 February 2026. |
Final Points
- The scholarship is a great chance for students who want to study energy‑related fields and who need financial support.
- Make sure you meet every requirement, proof your need, and submit a polished application before the deadline.
Good luck – your future in South Africa’s energy world could start with this bursary!
