Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency (IUCMA) Invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their External Bursary Opportunities 2026.
The closing date for applications is 06 February 2026.
Why This Bursary Is Worth Checking Out
The IUCMA bursary is a big help for anyone who wants to study subjects that protect South Africa’s water and environment.
If you’re a student in Mpumalanga and your family can’t afford university, this bursary could cover almost all the major costs: tuition, fees, accommodation, food, study supplies, and a monthly stipend.
Quick Bursary Facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Bursary name | IUCMA External Bursary Opportunities 2026 |
| Who runs it | Inkomati‑Usuthu Catchment Management Agency (IUCMA) |
| Location | Mpumalanga – only students who live inside the IUCMA Water Management Area |
| Supported subjects | Environmental Science Hydrology / Water Resource Management Chemistry (Biochemistry, Microbiology) Geohydrology / Geomorphology / Botany |
| Who can apply | Fresh high‑school graduates (with an offer) or current university students in the above subjects |
| Deadline | 06 Feb 2026, 16:00 |
| How to apply | Email only – Bursaries@iucma.co.za |
| No paper applications | Hand‑delivered or postal copies are not accepted |
Who Needs to Be a South African Citizen?
You must send a certified copy of your South African ID. Without this, you can’t be considered.
School Results Needed
| Situation | Minimum average | Extra proof needed |
|---|---|---|
| New student (matric) | 65 % | Certified matric certificate + proof of university acceptance |
| Current university student | 60 % | Certified academic record from last year/level |
Living in Mpumalanga Is a Must
Proof that you live in the IUCMA area is required. Acceptable documents:
- Letter from your local municipality
- Letter signed by a Headman or Chief
Money Matters
You’ll need to show proof that your household earns below a certain amount, plus an affidavit from the South African Police Service (SAPS). This shows that you really need the bursary.
If you already receive a bursary from another organisation (for example, NSFAS), you cannot apply.
What Does the Bursary Pay For?
- Registration fees
- Tuition and exam fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Study materials (books, lab supplies, etc.)
- A monthly stipend
Anything else—like a laptop or transport—has to be arranged separately.
How to Send Your Application
- Download the application form from the IUCMA website or any of its offices in Nelspruit, Piet Retief/Usuthu, or Bushbuckridge.
- Gather the required documents (ID, matric or university record, residence letter, income proof, SAPS affidavit, etc.).
Keep them neat and certified. - Create one PDF file that includes the form and all attachments.
Name it:IUCMA_Bursary2026_YourName.pdf. - Email the PDF to
<a href="mailto:Bursaries@iucma.co.za">Bursaries@iucma.co.za</a>.
Use a clear subject line:IUCMA External Bursary 2026 – Your Full Name. - Do not send a paper copy. Only electronic submissions will be accepted.
- Send early – give yourself at least 2–3 days before 16:00 on 06 Feb 2026 to avoid technical hiccups.
Checklist Before You Hit “Send”
- Completed application form
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified matric certificate (if you’re a new student)
- Proof of university acceptance (if you’re a new student)
- Certified academic record (if you’re already studying)
- Proof of residence in Mpumalanga, IUCMA area
- Proof of household income + SAPS affidavit
- No other bursary funding in play
- Email sent to the correct address before the deadline
Tips to Make Your Application Shine
- Treat it like a job interview – read everything twice, double‑check names and dates.
- Keep the PDF tidy – avoid a messy pile of pages.
- Show purpose – be ready to explain why you chose the field and how it will help your community.
- Use a professional email subject – e.g., “IUCMA Bursary 2026 – John Doe”.
- Don’t give up if you don’t hear back – many applicants are not contacted if not shortlisted. Use this as a learning experience and apply elsewhere too.
Career Paths After the Bursary
| Field | Typical Jobs |
|---|---|
| Environmental Science | Environmental Officer, Sustainability Coordinator, Climate Project Assistant, Compliance Monitor |
| Hydrology / Water Management | Hydrology Technician, Water Quality Analyst, Catchment Officer, Water Resource Planner |
| Chemistry / Biochemistry / Microbiology | Laboratory Technician, Water Quality Lab Analyst, Environmental Lab Assistant, Research Assistant |
| Geohydrology / Geomorphology / Botany | Geohydrology Technician, Groundwater Monitor, Field Technician, Conservation Specialist |
These roles can lead to graduate studies, research positions, government jobs, municipal work, private consulting, or NGO work.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can I apply if I live outside Mpumalanga? | No. Only South African citizens who live inside Mpumalanga and the IUCMA area are eligible. |
| Can I have another bursary (like NSFAS)? | No. Existing external funding disqualifies you. |
| What is the minimum average? | 65 % for new students, 60 % for current students. |
| Can I drop off my papers at an office? | No. Only electronic submissions via email are accepted. |
| What does the bursary cover? | Registration, tuition, exams, accommodation, meals, study materials, stipend. |
| Where can I get the application form? | From any IUCMA office (Nelspruit, Piet Retief/Usuthu, Bushbuckridge) or the website www.iucma.co.za. |
| Who can I contact for more information? | Ms. D Malumane or Ms. Z Tibane at 013 753 9000. |
Final Word
This bursary can change a student’s life by removing the biggest financial hurdles. If you’re studying or want to study in one of the listed subjects, and you live in Mpumalanga, make sure you finish everything before 06 Feb 2026.
Apply now by sending your email to Bursaries@iucma.co.za and keep that PDF handy!
