KwaZulu‑Natal students who need extra money for university in 2027 should act now – the Dube TradePort Corporation (DTPC) Bursary Scheme is open, and the deadline is only a few weeks away.
What the DTPC Bursary 2027 offers
The DTPC Bursary Scheme provides financial support for undergraduate studies in 2027. It is aimed at KZN residents who do not qualify for NSFAS. The bursary covers tuition, books and a modest living allowance.
Who can apply – eligibility criteria
- South African citizen and resident of KwaZulu‑Natal
- Age preferably between 18 and 34 years
- Enrolled in an undergraduate programme (1st‑4th year)
- Study at one of the four public universities listed below
- Course must be in Engineering, Agricultural Studies (crops & plants), Information Technology or Built Environment
- Must not be eligible for NSFAS funding
- Provide proof of household income
Which universities are eligible?
- Durban University of Technology (DUT)
- Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
- University of KwaZulu‑Natal (UKZN)
- University of Zululand (UniZulu)
Students at private higher‑education institutions are not eligible.
What you gain
The bursary pays for tuition fees, textbooks and a modest stipend for living costs. It also opens the door to future internships and job opportunities within the Dube TradePort Special Economic Zone, which focuses on infrastructure, logistics, agriculture and technology.
How to apply – step‑by‑step
- Visit the SA Youth portal and sign in or create an account.
- Open the DTPC Bursary 2027 opportunity (link below).
- Enter your personal details, contact information and KZN residence.
- Select your university, qualification and year of study.
- Provide household‑income information and upload supporting documents (ID, proof of income, academic records, registration letters).
- Review all entries for accuracy.
- Submit the application before the deadline.
Official application link: DTPC Bursary 2027 application on SA Youth
Closing date: 31 August 2026. Applications received after this date will not be considered.
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that your university and field of study are on the approved list.
- Make sure you truly do not qualify for NSFAS – the bursary is only for non‑NSFAS students.
- Gather all financial documents (latest payslips, tax certificates, bank statements) before you start.
- Upload clear, legible PDFs or JPGs; name files descriptively (e.g., “ID_JaneDoe.pdf”).
- Maintain a good academic record – grades are part of the selection criteria.
- Submit at least a few days before the deadline to avoid technical issues.
- Only apply once; multiple submissions can lead to disqualification.
What happens after you apply?
Submitting the form does not guarantee funding. Your application will be assessed against the eligibility and selection criteria. If you do not hear back within four weeks after 31 August 2026, you should consider the application unsuccessful and keep looking for other funding options.
Conclusion – next steps
If you are a KZN resident studying at DUT, MUT, UKZN or UniZulu in Engineering, IT, Built Environment or the specified Agricultural Studies, and you do not qualify for NSFAS, this bursary could help you fund your 2027 studies. Gather your documents, verify your eligibility, and submit your application well before 31 August 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the DTPC Bursary 2027?
It is a financial award for qualifying KZN undergraduate students who are not NSFAS‑eligible, covering tuition, books and a living allowance for the 2027 academic year.
When does the application close?
31 August 2026.
Can NSFAS students apply?
No. Applicants must not qualify for NSFAS.
Can first‑year students apply?
Yes, students in their 1st, 2nd, 3rd or 4th year are eligible.
Is the bursary open to students from other provinces?
No. Only residents of KwaZulu‑Natal may apply.
Which universities qualify?
DUT, MUT, UKZN and UniZulu.
Are private colleges included?
No. Private institutions are excluded.
What courses are funded?
Engineering, Agricultural Studies (crops & plants), Information Technology and Built Environment.
Is academic performance considered?
Yes. Good grades improve your chances.
Does meeting the criteria guarantee a bursary?
No. Awards depend on budget, financial need, academic results and other factors.
How do I apply?
Through the SA Youth platform using the official link above.
When will I hear back?
If you have not received a response within four weeks after the closing date, assume the application was unsuccessful.
Disclaimer
SETA SA is not Dube TradePort Corporation, the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition, SA Youth or the body that selects bursary recipients. SETA SA publishes opportunity information to help South African students access education and career pathways.
Applicants must verify the final requirements and application instructions on the official SA Youth platform before submitting personal information.
Never pay anyone who promises to secure a bursary for you.
Editorial integrity
SETA SA provides an independent summary of the DTPC Bursary based on publicly available sources. Official eligibility criteria are presented separately from practical advice. SETA SA does not guarantee selection, funding, admission or placement.
