Need financial help for a degree in Disaster Management, Fire Technology or Fire Engineering? The National Disaster Management Centre External Bursary Programme can fund your studies – but the application closes on 30 September 2026, so act now.
What the bursary is
The National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC), part of the Department of Cooperative Governance, offers a bursary to build South Africa’s capacity in disaster‑risk reduction and emergency management. It pays 100 % of tuition and registration fees for eligible programmes at public universities.
Who can apply
- South African citizens only
- Studying at a recognised public higher‑education institution in South Africa
- Enrolled, accepted or applied for a full programme in Disaster Management, Fire Technology or Fire Engineering
- Level of study: Undergraduate, Postgraduate Diploma, Advanced Diploma or Master’s (PhD and certificate courses are excluded)
- Academic performance: at least 60 % average for undergraduate, postgraduate diploma and advanced diploma students; at least 65 % for Master’s students
What you will receive
- Full payment of tuition fees, including registration fees
- For Master’s students – a research allowance up to R11 000
- Support to focus on studies without worrying about tuition costs
Note: the bursary does NOT cover accommodation, meals, textbooks or travel expenses.
Quick overview
| Bursary | NDMC External Bursary Programme |
|---|---|
| Organisation | National Disaster Management Centre (NDMC) |
| Academic year | 2027 |
| Fields | Disaster Management, Fire Technology, Fire Engineering |
| Study levels | Undergraduate, Postgraduate Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Master’s |
| Institution type | Public higher‑education institutions in South Africa |
| Citizenship | South African |
| Undergraduate minimum average | 60 % |
| Master’s minimum average | 65 % |
| Closing date | 30 September 2026 |
| Application method | Online |
How to apply – step by step
- Gather the required documents:
- Certified copy of a valid South African ID
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate
- Latest academic transcript or statement of results (minimum 60 % or 65 % depending on level)
- Proof of application, acceptance or registration for the chosen programme
- If applying for a Master’s: a brief two‑page CV and a research proposal that matches one of NDMC’s 16 Priority Thematic Areas
- Visit the official online portal: Apply for the NDMC External Bursary 2027.
- Create an account and fill in all personal and study details.
- Upload each document. Do NOT password‑protect or corrupt the files.
- Review the entire application to ensure nothing is missing.
- Submit before the deadline. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that your chosen qualification is listed under the eligible fields.
- Make sure the university you selected is a recognised public institution.
- Keep your academic average at or above the required threshold.
- For Master’s applicants, align your research proposal clearly with one of NDMC’s 16 priority areas (download the list from the application portal).
- Submit early – technical glitches are more likely close to the deadline.
- If you have a disability, the NDMC encourages you to apply; just meet the same eligibility criteria.
Next steps
Start preparing your documents today. Ask your university’s student support office for certified copies if you need help. Reach out to the NDMC if you have any questions:
Email: bursary@ndmc.gov.za
Phone: 012 065 1022 / 012 065 1021
Technical issues with the online system can be directed to:
Email: helpdesk@ndmc.gov.za
Phone: 012 065 1019
Frequently asked questions
- When does the application close? 30 September 2026.
- Who is eligible? South African citizens studying the specified fields at a public university.
- Does the bursary cover tuition fully? Yes, 100 % of tuition and registration fees.
- Are accommodation or meals paid for? No, those costs are not covered.
- What academic average is required? Minimum 60 % for undergraduate, postgraduate diploma and advanced diploma; 65 % for Master’s.
- Is there funding for Master’s research? Yes, up to R11 000.
- Can PhD or certificate students apply? No, they are excluded.
- Can I apply by email? No, applications must be submitted through the online portal.
Conclusion
If you are serious about a career in disaster management or fire safety, this bursary removes the biggest barrier – tuition fees. Begin gathering your certified documents now, check that your research fits NDMC’s priorities, and submit your application well before the 30 September 2026 deadline.
Disclaimer
This article is based on the official National Disaster Management Centre External Bursary Advertisement for the 2027 Academic Year. SETA SA is not the NDMC and does not administer the bursary. Applicants must use the official NDMC portal and verify all requirements before applying.
SETA SA is a registered non‑profit organisation (NPO No: 232‑182, PBO: 930066984). It does not solicit money or CVs for jobs. Beware of recruitment fraud and use official channels only.
