
King Cetshwayo District Municipality Invites Students to Apply for the 2026 University & TVET Registration Grant – Closing Date: 15 January 2026
Why This Grant Is a Game‑Changer for 2026
If you’re worried about paying university or TVET college registration fees next year, the news may change your plans. The King Cetshwayo District Municipality has released a one‑time payment of R6,000 for every eligible student who wants to start full‑time studies in 2026.
The goal? To help young people in the district get into higher education without the heavy upfront cost of registration.
Quick Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Grant name | 2026 University & TVET Registration Grants |
| Amount | R6,000 per student (once‑off) |
| Who can apply? | South African citizens living permanently in King Cetshwayo District |
| Who can study? | Full‑time university or TVET college students in any subject |
| Application window | 10 December 2025 – 15 January 2026 |
| Where to pick up forms? | Any local municipal office or the municipality’s website |
| Submission places | Richards Bay office, or local municipal drop‑boxes (uMhlathuze, uMfolozi, uMlalazi, Mthonjaneni, Nkandla) |
| Who announced it? | Mayor Cllr S.Z. Dlamini |
About the King Cetshwayo District
Located in KwaZulu‑Natal, this district is known for its mix of cultures and growing economy. It includes five local areas: uMhlathuze, uMfolozi, uMlalazi, Mthonjaneni, and Nkandla. The municipality is dedicated to:
- Making school easier to reach
- Helping students from tough backgrounds succeed
- Creating skills and job paths
- Building a stronger local economy
How the Grant Helps You
Most students lose their place at college because they can’t pay the registration fee before the new year starts. The R6,000 grant:
- Covers the whole registration cost for many TVET colleges
- Cuts a big chunk from university registration fees
- Lets you focus on studying instead of raising money
Remember, this is not a full tuition bursary—just a one‑time payment to get you registered.
Who Qualifies?
To be eligible you must:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Live permanently in King Cetshwayo District.
- Plan to study full‑time in 2026.
- Be accepted or planning to register at a university or TVET college.
- Apply between 10 December 2025 and 15 January 2026.
How to Apply – Step by Step
Get the Application Form
- Visit any municipal office or download the PDF from the municipality’s website.
Prepare Your Documents
- Certified ID copy
- Proof of residence (recent 3 months)
- Acceptance letter from the university/TVET college
- Proof of registration if you already have it
- Certified Grade 12 results
- Motivational letter (why you want to study)
- Banking details (if required)
Submit Your Application
By Post – Send to:
The Municipal Manager
King Cetshwayo District Municipality
Private Bag X1025
Richards Bay 3900Mark the envelope “University Grant Application”.
By Hand – Drop it in the Applications Box at the Richards Bay office.
At Local Offices – Put it in the drop‑boxes at:
- City of uMhlathuze
- uMfolozi
- uMlalazi
- Mthonjaneni
- Nkandla
Important: No late submissions will be accepted after 15 January 2026.
How the Money Gets Paid
Once the municipality verifies your documents, they will release the R6,000 to you. The exact date will be communicated after approval.
FAQs
Is this grant only for first‑year students?
- No. It’s available to any student who is registering for full‑time studies in 2026, as long as you live in the district.
Does it cover tuition?
- Only registration fees.
Can students who are waiting for NSFAS help?
- Yes, they can still apply for the registration grant; check with the office for details.
Do I need a university acceptance letter?
- Yes, proof of acceptance is a must.
When will I receive the grant?
- After the application is verified, the municipality will notify you of the payout schedule.
Can I apply online?
- No. All submissions must be done in person or by post.
Are late applications allowed?
- No. The deadline is strict.
Can I send it to any office?
- Yes – any listed municipal office will take your application.
After You Register
Once you’re registered, you open doors to many career paths:
- TVET graduates can become artisans, technicians, office staff, or even start their own business.
- University graduates can go into teaching, nursing, engineering, business, pursue postgraduate studies, or land internships and graduate programs.
Education is the key to long‑term employment, entrepreneurship, and a stable future. This grant is the first step toward that future.
How to Get the Most Out of This Opportunity
- Act early. Grab your form as soon as you can.
- Make copies ahead of time to avoid queues.
- Submit before the New Year to stay ahead of the rush.
- Use local resources like career guidance, internship listings, and bursary tools from your school or community center.
Verify Before You Apply
Always double‑check the latest details on the official King Cetshwayo District Municipality website:
http://www.kingcetshwayo.gov.za
The information here comes from that official notice, and we do not submit applications on your behalf.
*This grant could be the ticket that helps you step into higher education without the stress of registration costs. Don’t miss out—apply before 15 January 2026!




