Getting an acceptance letter for university or TVET college is exciting, but many South African students immediately wonder: who will pay for my studies? The City of Ekurhuleni Community Bursary Programme is now open for the 2027 academic year, giving eligible learners a chance to receive financial help.
What the bursary offers
The City of Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality has launched its Community Bursary Programme 2027. It supports full‑time undergraduate courses and selected technical TVET pathways for residents who need financial assistance.
Who can apply (eligibility)
- South African citizen.
- Permanent resident of the City of Ekurhuleni (Germiston, Benoni, Boksburg, Kempton Park, Springs, Brakpan, Alberton, etc.).
- Age 18 – 35 years.
- Completed Grade 12 (Matric).
- Have an acceptance letter or proof of registration for 2027 at an accredited South African university, university of technology or TVET college.
- Household income not exceeding R600 000 per year (must provide proof).
- Intend to study one of the priority fields listed below.
Fields of study that are funded
- Built Environment & Engineering – civil, electrical, GIS, construction and related engineering programmes.
- Information & Communications Technology (ICT) – BICT in Internet of Things, BSc Computer Science specialising in Artificial Intelligence, BSc Information Technology.
- Finance, Accounting & Logistics – BCom Accounting and Finance, Logistics and Supply Chain Management.
- Environmental Health Sciences – water quality, waste management, occupational health and safety.
- Technical, Artisan & Apprenticeship qualifications (TVET) – any N3‑level or higher technical course approved by the City.
What you gain
The bursary can cover part or all of your tuition, registration and other study costs, although the exact amount is not stated in the official notice. Successful applicants must maintain good academic performance to keep the funding each year.
How to apply – step‑by‑step
- Visit the official portal: Go to City of Ekurhuleni Bursary Application Portal.
- Create an account: Click “Register”, fill in your personal details and use a current email address.
- Activate your profile: Follow the activation link sent to your inbox.
- Log in and select “Community Bursary”: Choose the 2027 programme and click “Apply”.
- Complete the online form: Enter accurate information about your identity, residence, household income, academic background and intended course.
- Upload required documents (see checklist below). Ensure each certified copy is dated within the last three months.
- Submit and note your reference number. You will receive an acknowledgement email.
- Monitor your application in the “My Applications” section and await the final decision by email.
Document checklist
- Certified copy of South African ID (≤ 3 months old).
- Acceptance letter or proof of registration for 2027.
- Proof of Ekurhuleni residence (utility bill, lease, etc., ≤ 3 months old).
- Proof of household income (latest payslips, bank statement with affidavit, or social grant proof).
Tips to improve your chances
- Start gathering documents early – outdated proof of residence is a common cause for rejection.
- Double‑check that your chosen course matches the priority fields listed above.
- Make sure your acceptance letter is from an accredited institution; the bursary does not guarantee admission.
- Maintain a strong academic record; the bursary is renewable only if you meet performance requirements.
- Use the SETA SA Bursary and NSFAS Eligibility Checker to see if you qualify for additional funding, but remember it does not replace the City’s criteria.
Next steps
The deadline to apply is Monday, 30 November 2026. Do not wait until the last day – an incomplete or late application means you lose the chance to be considered.
If you have questions about eligibility or the online process, you can call the City’s bursary helpline:
- 011 999 3516
- 011 999 7772
- 011 999 8231
- 011 999 0547
Prepare your documents, submit your application before the deadline, and keep working towards your chosen qualification. A bursary can help you start your studies, but the ultimate goal is to earn a recognised qualification, build valuable skills, and launch a sustainable career.
