A Life‑Changing Chance for Eastern Cape Students – Full‑Funding Bursaries for 2026
If you live in the Eastern Cape and want to study finance, accounting, economics, IT, or supply chain management at a public university or university of technology, this news is for you. The Eastern Cape Provincial Treasury has opened applications for a completely paid bursary that covers tuition, books, accommodation and a living allowance for the 2026 academic year. It isn’t just money – it’s a chance to get a strong foundation for a career that helps run government, municipalities, and big companies better.
What the Bursary Covers
- Tuition fees for your whole course
- Required textbooks
- Room and board (or a stipend for housing)
- Meals while you study
- A living allowance to help with day‑to‑day costs
After you finish your studies, you’ll receive a note that spells out the exact benefits that were approved for your case.
Who Can Apply?
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary provider | Eastern Cape Provincial Treasury |
| Academic year | 2026 |
| Eligibility | South African citizens who live in the Eastern Cape |
| Course level | Undergraduate – either a Bachelor’s degree or a National Diploma |
| Study areas | Finance, Accounting, Economics, IT, Supply Chain Management, and related fields |
| Universities | Any public university or university of technology in South Africa |
| Income limit | Household earning not more than R467,790 per year |
| Special priority | Applicants with a disability receive extra consideration |
| Deadline | 31 January 2026 (no late entries) |
| How to apply | Email your documents – no online portal |
The Priority Subjects for 2026
If you want the most support, focus on these majors:
- Economics
- Financial Accounting
- Cost and Management Accounting
- Financial Information Systems
- Information Technology (IT)
- Internal Auditing
- Supply Chain Management
These subjects open doors to roles in government finance, municipal services, state‑owned companies, audit firms, and corporate consulting.
Basic Requirements
- South African citizen – proof of ID needed.
- Eastern Cape resident – you must show a recent proof of address.
- Matric (NSC) pass – with a minimum of a 360‑credit qualification (Bachelor’s or National Diploma).
- Accepted into a public tertiary institution – send the admission letter.
- Household income must be below R467,790 per year.
- Academic achievements – if you took English, Mathematics, Accounting, Economics, etc., you should have at least the following levels:
- English Home Language: Level 5
- English First Additional Language: Level 4
- Mathematics: Level 5
- Mathematical Literacy: Level 6
- Accounting: Level 6
- Economics: Level 6
If you have a disability, be sure to add a clear statement of what it is and attach any official medical paperwork.
How to Apply – A Simple Email Process
Write an application letter
- Mention the reference number: ECPT/BURSARIES/2026
- Introduce yourself, state what you want to study, explain why you need help, and say what you hope to do after finishing your degree.
Gather the supporting docs
- Certified ID copy
- Certified matric results
- Final results if you’re already studying
- Admission letter from your chosen university
- Proof of your household income (pay slips, tax returns, or a letter from your parents)
- Proof of your residence in the Eastern Cape (utility bill, lease, etc.)
- If your parents are deceased, attach death certificates and any guardianship affidavits.
Send an email
- Use a clear subject line like “Bursary Application – ECPT/BURSARIES/2026 – [Your Name]”
- Attach all documents in PDF form.
- Send to the address listed on the official treasury website.
Don’t miss the deadline – 31 January 2026. Late emails won’t be considered.
Tips from Edupstairs
- Apply early – Don’t wait until the last week.
- Check every document – Make sure copies are sharp and official.
- Use a professional email – Your address should look like a real name and not a nickname.
- Double‑check your income – If you think it might be over the limit, ask for a clear calculation.
- Consider other bursaries – If one falls through, you still have a backup.
What Happens After You Get the Bursary?
Winning this bursary can lead to many good career paths:
- Financial Accountant
- Chartered Accountant (if you pursue more qualifications)
- Economist or Policy Analyst
- Internal Auditor
- Supply Chain Professional
- Financial Systems Analyst
- Public Sector Finance Manager
Past recipients often complete government internships, join graduate programmes, and land permanent jobs at the Treasury, local councils, or state‑owned enterprises.
Common Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can first‑year students apply? | Yes, as long as you have a letter of admission. |
| Must I study inside the Eastern Cape? | No, you can study elsewhere but you must live in the Eastern Cape. |
| Are private schools accepted? | No, only public universities and universities of technology qualify. |
| Is there an age limit? | No official limit, but younger applicants tend to get priority. |
| Do I have to work for the Treasury after graduation? | Some bursaries have a work‑back rule; details are provided if you make it to the shortlist. |
Final Thoughts
The Eastern Cape Provincial Treasury bursary is a chance to get a solid education and a career that can change the lives of people in South Africa. If you’re a student who meets the income and residency requirements, grab this opportunity before 31 January 2026. Use the email method and make sure you include every piece of proof. Good luck!
Please note: Edupstairs is not connected with the Eastern Cape Provincial Treasury. We only share information and do not charge a fee for this. Always double‑check with the official treasury contact details before sending any personal data.
