Emalahleni Local Municipality invites aspiring students to apply for the External Bursary Programme.
Applications are open for the 2026 academic year and the deadline is 22 November 2025.
What Is the External Bursary Programme?
The programme gives young people from disadvantaged backgrounds in Emalahleni a chance to study full‑time at South African universities or TVET colleges without paying tuition.
It supports subjects that help build a stronger, smarter community.
Who Can Apply?
Check the boxes below before you start your application.
| Condition | What It Means |
|---|---|
| South African citizen | You must have an ID that proves you are a South African. |
| Live in Emalahleni | Your home address must be inside the municipality. |
| Age 18‑35 | You should be at least 18 and no older than 35. |
| Want an undergraduate degree | The course must be a bachelor’s programme at a public university or TVET college. |
| Show you need help paying | Provide proof of low household income (pay slips, affidavit, etc.). |
| Give true, complete info | Any missing or false details can get you out of the process. |
| Sign a bursary agreement | Once you’re accepted, you’ll sign a contract with the municipality. |
People with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply – the programme is designed to lift everyone up.
Subjects That Are Favoured
The municipality gives priority to fields that grow the local economy and protect the environment. If you’re interested, look at one of the options below:
- Civil, Electrical, Mechanical Engineering
- Urban & Regional Planning
- Analytical Chemistry, Horticulture, Microbiology
- Environmental Management, Water & Sanitation
- Finance, Law, Disaster Management
- Developmental Studies
Thinking about a different course? It’s still possible – but these subjects have the highest chance of funding.
What Documents Do I Need?
Prepare a complete set of records before you head to the Youth Development Unit.
- Certified copy of your ID (ID or passport).
- Grade 11 report (if you’re in Grade 12).
- Grade 12 result statement (if you’ve finished).
- Academic record (if you’re in 2nd or 3rd year of study).
- Certificates of achievement (any awards or honours).
- Proof of residence (utility bill, driver’s licence, or a letter).
- Proof of financial need – payslips or an affidavit.
- Provisional acceptance letter from a public South African university or TVET college.
Incomplete lists or documents that can’t be verified may get your application rejected.
How to Submit Your Application
Print the application form from the municipality website or the link below.
Fill it out with accurate information.
Bring all the documents in the list above.
Walk to the Youth Development Unit:
Emalahleni Local Municipality Civic Centre
2nd Floor (Youth Development Unit)
Corner Mandela & Street, eMalahleni 1035Hand your paper application and documents to the clerk.
Confirm the receipt of your application – you should get a reference number.
Important notes
• No emails or faxes will be accepted. Only hand‑off matters.
• Late applications are not considered. The final date is 22 November 2025.
• If you hear back within 30 days after the deadline, you’ve been shortlisted. If not, it’s likely you didn’t meet the criteria.
Extra Resources
If you’re looking for other bursaries or training, the SETA Bursaries you can still apply for this year page holds useful information about additional funding opportunities that may fit your background and interests.
Final Step
Gather all the paperwork, double‑check everything, and head to the Youth Development Unit before the closing date. A bursary could open the door to a freely funded degree and a brighter future for you and your community.
Good luck, future student!
