South African youth living in Johannesburg have a time‑critical chance to secure funding for a full‑time undergraduate degree in 2027 – the deadline is less than a month away. The City of Johannesburg Municipality is offering 200 bursaries, and you could be one of the beneficiaries.
What the bursary offers
The City of Johannesburg has released 200 bursaries for the 2027 academic year. They cover a wide range of study areas, including Engineering, Information Technology, Finance, Health, Actuarial Science, Commerce, Built Environment, Logistics, Law, Humanities, Social Sciences, GIS, Business Management and many more.
Who can apply
To be eligible, you must meet all of the following:
- South African citizen
- Permanent resident of Johannesburg
- Intending to study full‑time at an accredited South African university or TVET college
- Enrolling in an undergraduate programme (post‑graduate studies are not covered)
- Programme must be at least one year long
- Selection will be based on academic merit
What you will receive
- Up to R40 000 per academic year
- Funding for tuition fees
- Funding for registration fees
- Funding for prescribed books and/or study material
The bursary does not automatically cover accommodation, meals, transport, laptops or a living allowance. You will need to budget for these costs or look for additional funding.
Quick overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Bursary provider | City of Johannesburg Municipality |
| Academic year | 2027 |
| Number of bursaries | 200 |
| Target group | Youth permanently residing in Johannesburg |
| Citizenship | South African |
| Study level | Full‑time undergraduate |
| Institution | Accredited South African tertiary institution |
| Minimum qualification duration | At least one year |
| Selection criteria | Academic merit |
| Maximum bursary value | R40 000 per academic year |
| Funding covers | Tuition, registration, prescribed books and/or study material |
| Renewable | Yes, subject to academic performance |
| Application method | Online |
| Closing date | 30 October 2026 |
Fields of study that qualify
The bursary supports many undergraduate disciplines. Below are the main categories (you should check the exact programme name when you apply):
Actuarial Science
Strong mathematics is required. Review university APS and subject requirements before applying.
Built Environment
- Architecture
- Construction
- Urban and Regional Planning
- Quantity Surveying
Commerce
Make sure the specific commerce qualification you choose meets the City’s criteria.
Community Services
Emergency Management Services
Engineering – All Fields
Includes civil, electrical, mechanical, industrial and other engineering programmes.
Health – All Fields
Professional health programmes may have extra accreditation requirements.
Finance
- Accounting
- Auditing
- Small Business Management
- Supply Chain Management
- Treasury
- Economics
- Risk and Compliance Management
Information Technology and Management – All Fields
Humanities and Social Sciences – All Fields
International Relations and Protocol
Legal Studies
Logistics
Marketing
Municipal Governance (Monitoring and Evaluation)
Real Estate – Property Management and Valuation
Geo‑Information Science (GIS)
Business Management
How to apply – step‑by‑step
- Confirm you meet the eligibility criteria listed above.
- Research and apply for admission to your chosen university or TVET college. The bursary does **not** guarantee a place.
- Gather the required documents:
- Latest academic record
- South African ID
- Proof of Johannesburg residency (e.g., water, lights or rates bill)
- Parents’ proof of income, or death certificates and an affidavit if a parent is deceased
- Complete the online application form:
Apply Online for the City of Johannesburg Bursary Programme 2027 - Submit the application before the closing date (30 October 2026). Do not wait until the last day – submit early to avoid technical issues.
- If you need help with the online process, visit the City’s guidance page:
City of Johannesburg Tips for Job Applicants - Keep a copy of the confirmation email and note the reference number for future enquiries.
Tips to improve your chances
- Maintain a strong academic record – selection is based on merit.
- Submit clear, certified copies of all documents.
- Apply to a programme that aligns closely with the listed fields.
- Ensure your university or TVET college is accredited by the Department of Higher Education.
- Consider applying for other funding sources (NSFAS, sector‑specific bursaries, SETA programmes) to cover living costs.
- Follow up politely if you have not heard back six weeks after the deadline.
What happens after you apply?
The City will contact only shortlisted candidates. If you do not receive a response within six weeks of the 30 October deadline, you can assume your application was unsuccessful.
The bursary is renewable each year, provided you meet the academic performance requirements.
Contact for enquiries
If you need clarification about eligibility or the application process, you may email the officials named in the circular: Billy Baloyi and Takalani Wakpo (official City of Johannesburg email addresses).
Frequently asked questions
- How many bursaries are available?
The City offers 200 bursaries for 2027. - Who can apply?
South African youth who permanently reside in Johannesburg and intend to study full‑time undergraduate in a listed field. - Are postgraduate studies funded?
No. The bursary is for undergraduate programmes only. - Do I need a university acceptance before applying?
You must apply for admission separately. The bursary application does not replace the university admission process. - How much money does the bursary provide?
Up to R40 000 per academic year for tuition, registration and prescribed study material. - Is accommodation covered?
No. Accommodation, meals and transport are not included. - Is the bursary renewable?
Yes, provided you meet the required academic results each year. - How are successful candidates selected?
Selection is based strictly on academic merit. - Do I have to live in Johannesburg?
Yes. Permanent residency in Johannesburg is a condition. - Is the application online only?
Yes. Only online submissions will be considered. - When does the application close?
Applications close on Friday, 30 October 2026.
Next steps
1. Identify the career you want.
2. Check the exact qualification and its admission requirements.
3. Choose an accredited university or TVET college.
4. Apply for admission.
5. Complete the City of Johannesburg bursary application before 30 October 2026.
6. Apply for additional funding (NSFAS, SETA programmes, other bursaries) to cover living expenses.
Take action now – the deadline is fast approaching. Good luck!
Disclaimer
This article is based on the official City of Johannesburg Bursary Circular 001/2026. All eligibility criteria, funding limits, and deadlines come directly from that document. The information about careers, qualifications, universities, TVET colleges, QCTO‑accredited providers, SETAs and other bursaries is provided for guidance only and does not form part of the City’s requirements.
Never pay anyone who claims they can guarantee you a City of Johannesburg bursary. Use only the official links provided above.
