Rand Water External Bursary Programme
The Rand Water External Bursary Programme funds South African students studying water-sector-related fields - including civil, electrical, mechanical and chemical engineering disciplines as well as chemistry, microbiology and water science. As one of Africa's largest bulk water utilities, Rand Water uses the bursary to develop scarce skills for the water sector, with preference given to female students and students with disabilities.
Eligible Fields of Study
Rand Water (administered directly via the Rand Water eRecruit careers portal) supports students in the following disciplines
Eligibility Requirements
- ✓ South African citizen
- ✓ From a previously disadvantaged background (ACI)
- ✓ Under 35 years of age at the time of application
- ✓ Completed Matric (Grade 12) or an equivalent qualification
- ✓ Studying or intending to study full-time at a recognised, accredited South African tertiary institution
- ✓ Minimum overall academic average of 65%, including major subjects
- ✓ Studying in one of the qualifying water-sector-related fields
- ✓ Must NOT be receiving any other bursary or external funding, including NSFAS
- ✓ Interested in working within the water sector; self-motivated with strong communication skills
What's Included
- ✓ Tuition fees
- ✓ Accommodation
- ✓ Books and study materials
- ✓ Meals
- ✓ Allowance (in some cases)
- ✓ Opportunity to build a career within South Africa's water sector
How to Apply
Steps to complete your Rand Water (administered directly via the Rand Water eRecruit careers portal) bursary application
- 1
Visit the Rand Water eRecruit careers portal and locate the bursary advert (reference RAN260423-1 for the 2026 cycle)
- 2
Create a candidate profile and register on the eRecruit portal
- 3
Complete the online application form for the External Bursary Programme
- 4
Upload all required supporting documents (ID, Matric certificate, latest academic record and proof of registration or acceptance)
- 5
Confirm that you are not receiving any other bursary or funding, including NSFAS
- 6
Submit your application before the closing date and wait for shortlisting and selection
Required Documents
- 📄 Certified copy of South African ID
- 📄 Matric (Grade 12) certificate or latest school results
- 📄 Latest tertiary academic record (where applicable)
- 📄 Proof of registration or acceptance at a recognised South African institution
- 📄 Curriculum vitae (CV)
- 📄 Motivational letter
Frequently Asked Questions
- Which fields does the Rand Water bursary cover?
- The Rand Water External Bursary Programme funds water-sector-related studies, including civil, electrical/electronic and mechanical engineering, chemistry, microbiology, geomatics/surveying, water science and sanitation, plus accounting, architecture, law and public health.
- What academic average do I need for the Rand Water bursary?
- You need a minimum overall academic average of 65%, including your major subjects. You must also be a South African citizen under 35 from a previously disadvantaged background and have completed Matric or an equivalent qualification.
- Can I apply if I already receive NSFAS or another bursary?
- No. To qualify for the Rand Water bursary you must not be receiving any other bursary or external funding, including NSFAS. The programme is intended for students who do not already have funding in place.
- When do Rand Water bursary applications open and close?
- Applications are advertised annually on the Rand Water eRecruit portal under a new reference number each cycle. The 2026 cycle closed on 7 May 2026, and the portal now shows 'Closed and no longer receiving applications'. Watch the eRecruit portal for the next intake.
Ready to apply?
Applications close on 7 May 2026
Apply on Rand Water (administered directly via the Rand Water eRecruit careers portal)'s official siteNeed help? Contact Rand Water (administered directly via the Rand Water eRecruit careers portal):
Phone: 011 682 0911
Information verified 2026-06-08. Always confirm details on the funder's official website before applying.
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