Apply Now: Eastern Cape Education Dept. Bursary 2026 – Teaching Scholarships for New Graduates
The Eastern Cape Department of Education invites suitably qualified applicants to apply for their 2026 Bursary Programme. The closing date for applications is 6 February.
What is the Eastern Cape Bursary?
The Eastern Cape Department of Education (ECDoE) has announced a new bursary for students who want to study in 2026. The bursary will help pay for university fees for several popular degree programmes, such as:
- Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Education (BEd) and BEd Honours / PGE
- Bachelor of Accounting
- Bachelor of Commerce (BCom)
- Bachelor of Arts (BA)
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Bachelor of Public Administration (BPA)
- Bachelor of Business
This scholarship is especially useful if you are the first person in your family to go to university or if you need money to cover tuition and books.
Quick facts
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Bursary name | Eastern Cape Department of Education Bursary |
| Academic year covered | 2026 |
| Closing date | 6 February |
| Who can apply | Students who live in the Eastern Cape |
| Where to submit | HRD Offices – you must hand in the papers in person |
| Important points | • All documents must be certified • No incomplete forms • No double‑dipping (you can’t have more than one bursary for the same period) • First‑time university entrants should apply |
What documents do you need?
- Matric results – if you have just finished high school, bring the official statement.
- Academic record / transcript – if you are already studying or have studied before.
- Copy of South African ID – must be clear and legible.
- Proof of residential address – e.g., a utility bill.
- Certified copies – every document must be certified by a SAPS officer or a Commissioner of Oaths.
Missing any of these will cause your application to be rejected right away.
Why apply?
If you live in the Eastern Cape and plan to study in 2026, this bursary can give you the financial support you need to start your degree. Even if your grades aren’t perfect, you only need to meet the requirements and submit everything correctly. The most successful students are those who stay organized, apply early, and send a tidy bundle of documents.
How to apply – step by step
- Check the list of accepted qualifications – make sure your chosen course is on the list.
- Get your documents certified – visit a SAPS office or a Commissioner of Oaths.
- Obtain the application form – ask at the HRD Offices for the form and ask where it must be submitted, whether you need the original copies or photocopies, and whether proof of admission is required.
- Fill in the form carefully – double‑check for missing fields.
- Submit early – go to the HRD Offices before the deadline to avoid queues.
- Keep a receipt – ask for a stamped copy or reference number to prove you submitted the application.
Contact information
- Ms L.K. Sidiya – 073 923 6960
- Email: Luvuyo.Mgijima@ecdoe.gov.za | Ntandazo.Matika@ecdoe.gov.za
When emailing, always include your full name, ID number, course and university, and a clear question.
Career possibilities after the bursary
- Bachelor of Education (BEd) – teacher, head of department, deputy principal, principal, district official.
- Accounting/Commerce/Business – intern, accounts clerk, financial officer, accountant, auditor, finance manager, eventually CFO.
- Law (LLB) – candidate attorney, attorney, advocate, compliance officer, corporate legal specialist.
- Public Administration – admin intern, government administrator, HR, policy roles, municipal or provincial manager.
The bursary is just the start of your journey; it can open many doors once you finish your degree.
Frequently Asked Questions
- When is the application deadline? – 6 February.
- Can I apply if I’m not from the Eastern Cape? – No, the bursary is only for Eastern Cape residents.
- Do I need certified documents? – Yes, all copies must be certified.
- Where do I hand in my application? – At the HRD Offices – no email unless explicitly told otherwise.
- What happens if I submit a form with missing items? – It will be rejected.
- What does “no double dipping” mean? – You can’t receive more than one bursary covering the same period unless it’s officially allowed.
- Who should apply first? – First‑time university entrants for 2026.
Need help?
You can write a short email with a clear subject line like “ECDoE Bursary 2026 Enquiry – [Your Name]”. Make sure to keep a copy of every document you send in case you need to refer back to it.
Important reminder
The bursary notice may contain extra rules in the official application form that we don’t see here. Always double‑check the official instructions and verify with the Department before you share personal information or make payments.
Apply now to secure your spot in the 2026 Eastern Cape Bursary Programme.
Apply Here – remember to submit your documents in person at the HRD Offices by 6 February.





