South Africa International Maritime Institute invites qualified students to apply for the Sindiswa Carol ‘Tu’ Nhlumayo Merit Bursary 2026.
The closing date for applications is 5 December 2025.
Why the SAIMI Bursary Matters
The South Africa International Maritime Institute (SAIMI) was created in 2014 by the South African Maritime Safety Authority, Nelson Mandela University, and many other universities and maritime groups.
Its goal is simple: help South Africa grow a strong ocean economy, train skilled workers, and become a top player on the world stage.
For young people who want to study anything to do with the sea—engineering, wildlife, food production, or science—SAIMI is the main hub. This bursary makes it easier for Black female students to get into those programs and become future leaders.
Quick Snapshot
| Topic | Detail |
|---|---|
| Bursary name | Sindiswa Carol ‘Tu’ Nhlumayo Merit Bursary 2026 |
| Provider | South Africa International Maritime Institute (SAIMI) |
| Study Levels | Undergraduate, Honours, Masters, PhD |
| Who Can Apply? | Black female South African students |
| Fields Covered | Maritime, Engineering, Aquaculture, Environmental Studies, and more |
| Financial Cover | Tuition, books, cheap accommodation, meals |
| Closing Date | 5 December 2025 (23:59) |
| Application Email | bursary@saimi.co.za |
What the Bursary Covers
If you win, you will get full financial support for:
- Tuition fees
- Textbooks
- Low‑cost dorms
- Affordable meals
- Entry to SAIMI conferences and maritime events
- Membership in science and marine groups
What it does not cover: Old student debts or other unpaid fees.
Who Can Apply
| Requirement | What it means |
|---|---|
| Female | Only women can apply |
| South African citizen | Must hold a SA ID |
| From a disadvantaged group | Black African, Coloured or Indian, per BEE Act 2003 |
| Full‑time student | At a recognized South African university or college |
| Family income | R350 000 – R600 000 per year (“missing middle” households) |
Undergraduate Applicants
- Currently in or just finished 12th grade (Matric)
- Studying or accepted into a maritime‑related course
- At least 70 % average if already studying
- A or B grades in Matric
Honours & Masters Applicants
- At least one year of university study finished
- 70 % average for undergraduate, 65 % for Honours
PhD Applicants
- 70 % or higher in a Master’s program
- Doing research that relates to the sea
Programs Covered
Undergraduate & Diploma
- Aquaculture (animal farming in water)
- Geology (study of Earth)
- Marine Engineering (ships and engines)
- Maritime Transportation & Logistics
- Environmental Science
- Zoology & Entomology (animals and insects)
- Many more engineering and science courses
Honours
- Aquaculture, Environmental Sciences, Oceanography
- Maritime Economics, Marine Law
- Zoology, and other advanced subjects
Masters
- MSc Applied Geology, Oceanography
- MBA with a maritime focus
- Law degrees in Marine or Shipping Law
- Maritime Management and other business‑related masters
PhD
- Advanced studies in geology, botany, maritime law, oceanography, microbiology, and more
Supporting Documents
| Document | Who needs it? |
|---|---|
| Certified ID | All levels |
| Matric certificate or latest results | Undergrads |
| Academic transcript | Current students |
| Provisional acceptance letter | Undergrads, honours, masters |
| Fee & textbook quote | All |
| Household income proof | All |
| Motivational letters | 500 words for undergrads, 800 for honours/masters, 800 for PhD |
How to Apply
- Fill out the application form (available on the SAIMI website).
- Gather the documents above.
- Send everything to bursary@saimi.co.za.
- Use the subject line: SAIMI Bursary 2026.
Check out useful study tools and tips that can help you finish the application on time.
Frequently Asked Questions
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Can male students apply? | No – the bursary is only for Black female South African students. |
| Can I study abroad? | No – it only supports public universities or accredited institutions in South Africa. |
| Does it cover old debts? | No – existing student debt is not covered. |
| Can a 12th‑grade student apply? | Yes, if you have good grades. |
| Is part‑time study covered? | No – the bursary is for full‑time courses only. |
Contact SAIMI if you have questions:
Phone: 041 504 4038
Email: bursary@saimi.co.za / info@saimi.co.za
Quick Reminder
- Application deadline: 5 December 2025 (23:59)
- Send everything on time – missing the deadline will disqualify you.
- Keep your documents handy and double‑check the latest requirements on the SAIMI site.
This page was written using information received directly from the South Africa International Maritime Institute. The details might change, so always confirm before submitting your application.
