Polokwane City Invites Eligible Applicants to Apply for the 2026 External Bursary Programme – Applications Close 05 December 2025
Why This Bursary Is a Game‑Changer
Polokwane City is stepping up to help young people who dream of university or TVET college but can’t afford it. The City’s External Bursary Programme 2026 gives students from low‑income families the money they need to finish their first degree, diploma or national diploma. It’s more than a scholarship – it’s a chance to break out of poverty, build skills and become the next leaders who will shape Polokwane’s future.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Who Can Apply? | Grade 12 learners or anyone who already finished Grade 12 and plans to study a first degree, National Diploma or N Diploma |
| Who Must Live? | Permanent South African residents inside the Polokwane Municipality |
| Background | Must come from a disadvantaged or financially needy family |
| Other Bursaries? | Applicants cannot be receiving any other bursary (e.g., NSFAS) |
| What’s Covered? | Tuition, registration fees, required books and, depending on policy, accommodation |
| Apply By | 05 December 2025, 4:30 pm |
| Where to Apply? | Polokwane City Centre or any of the cluster offices (Seshego, Sebayeng, Aganang, Molepo, Mankweng, Chuene, Maja) |
| Contact | 015 023 5068 / 015 290 2344 / 015 290 2029 |
About Polokwane City
Polokwane is the economic and administrative heart of Limpopo Province. Each year, the city spends money on programmes that:
- Grow young talent
- Boost education
- Encourage innovation
- Create a ready‑to‑work workforce
By supporting students at university or TVET college, the city hopes that, once they finish their studies, they’ll help improve services, build infrastructure and lift the community’s standard of living.
Why You Should Apply
- Cuts the cost of study so families don’t have to worry as much
- Lets students focus on learning instead of money worries
- Helps build skills that are in high demand locally
- Opens doors to careers that can make a real difference in Polokwane
If you’re serious about your studies and want to give back to your city, this bursary could be life‑changing.
Eligibility Checklist
- Grade 12 Status – You’re either in Grade 12 or have already finished it.
- Course Choice – Planning to study a first degree, National Diploma or National N Diploma at a public university or TVET college (no private schools).
- Residency – Live permanently inside the Polokwane Municipality – proof of address is required.
- Financial Need – Coming from a family that struggles to pay for education.
- Citizen – Must be a South African citizen – ID will be checked.
- No Other Bursary – If you already receive funding (NSFAS, company bursary, etc.) you cannot apply.
- Agree to Terms – Be ready to sign a bursary agreement that explains your responsibilities.
Documents You Must Submit
All documents must be certified copies. Missing anything will automatically disqualify you.
| Document | What to Show |
|---|---|
| ID | Proof of South African citizenship |
| Grade 12 results or certificate | Latest results for current learners; final certificate for matriculants |
| Parent/Guardian ID | Confirms household identity |
| Acceptance letter | From a recognised public university or TVET college |
| Proof of residence | Recent municipal bill (≤ 3 months old) or a letter from a Traditional Authority |
| Proof of income | Salary slip, affidavit for unemployed parents, SASSA grant receipt, pension statement, divorce decree, or death certificate if a parent has died |
| Medical records (optional) | For applicants with disabilities |
How to Apply – Step by Step
Pick up the application form
- At Polokwane City Centre Offices or any of the cluster offices listed above.
- You can also collect it from the Human Resources Development SBU office (905 & 903, corner of Landros Mare and Bodenstein Streets).
Fill it out carefully
- Write legibly.
- Answer every question truthfully.
- Do not leave blanks.
- Keep a copy for yourself.
Attach all certified documents
- Double‑check the list above. Missing paperwork equals rejection.
Submit before the deadline
- 05 December 2025, 4:30 pm.
- Return the completed form and all documents to the office where you got the form.
- Late applications will not be accepted.
Helpful Tips to Boost Your Chances
- Apply Early – Don’t wait until the last minute.
- Pack Everything – Keep a copy of every document you send.
- Write a Strong Motivational Letter – Explain who you are, what you want, and why this bursary matters to you.
- Be Honest – Any false information will get you out.
- Follow Up – If you need clarification, contact the office politely.
Career Paths After the Bursary
University Subjects
- Engineering (Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Chemical)
- Environmental Science
- IT & Computer Science
- Public Management
- Accounting & Finance
- Urban & Regional Planning
- Law
- Health Sciences
- Social Work
- Education
TVET College Subjects
- Electrical, Mechanical & Civil Engineering
- Financial Management
- Business Management
- Human Resources
- IT & Computer Systems
- Tourism & Marketing
After graduation, you could find work with:
- Polokwane City or provincial government
- National departments
- Private companies
- NGOs and community groups
- Your own start‑up
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it cover accommodation?
Coverage is decided by the municipal policy, but tuition and books come first.Can I use it if I already have NSFAS?
No – you can’t receive more than one bursary at a time.Are private colleges accepted?
No – only public universities and TVET colleges.Can postgraduate students apply?
No – it’s only for first qualifications (degree, diploma, N diploma).What if my parents are unemployed?
Submit an affidavit confirming their unemployment.Will I get it each year?
Yes, if you keep good grades.Do I need to pay it back?
Usually not, but you may be asked to work for the city after graduation.How will I know if I’m shortlisted?
The city will call or email you directly.Can I apply if I live outside Polokwane?
No – you must be a permanent resident inside the municipality.Do students with disabilities get priority?
Yes – differently abled students who meet the requirements are encouraged to apply.
Final Words
The City of Polokwane’s External Bursary Programme 2026 is a golden ticket for young people who want to study but can’t afford it. Apply before 05 December 2025 and give yourself the chance to build a better future for yourself and your community. Good luck!
