NERSA Bursary 2026 (External Bursary) - Master's and PhD

1. 1

   Confirm you meet the eligibility criteria and have an admission letter for a Master's or PhD degree from a South African university or university of technology

2. 2

   Prepare the compulsory supporting documents, including a motivation letter of about 500 words

3. 3

   No application form is required — email the documents to [email protected] using the subject line 'NERSA Bursary 2026', or submit by post or hand delivery

4. 4

   Address your submission for the attention of Ms Lena Rankhumise or Mr Nkanyiso Magwaza at the NERSA Human Resources Department, Kulawula House, 526 Madiba Street, Arcadia, Pretoria (postal: PO Box 40343, Arcadia, Pretoria 0007)

5. 5

   Submit before the closing date of 12 February 2026 — late submissions are not considered

6. 6

   Await assessment, including the financial means test, and selection feedback from the NERSA Human Resources Department

Frequently Asked Questions

How much is the NERSA bursary worth?

There is no fixed value. NERSA determines the approved amount through a financial means test, within its set maximum and minimum assistance figures, based on your financial circumstances. The bursary can cover registration fees, tuition, accommodation and prescribed books or a laptop.

Who is eligible for the NERSA Master's and PhD bursary?

Previously disadvantaged South African citizens with a valid ID who hold an admission letter for a Master's or PhD degree at a South African university or university of technology, have an excellent academic record, are not holding any other bursary, and can demonstrate proven financial need. Your field of study should be relevant to NERSA's regulatory mandate over the electricity, piped-gas and petroleum pipelines industries.

How do I apply if there is no application form?

Email the compulsory supporting documents to [email protected] with the subject line 'NERSA Bursary 2026', or submit them by post or hand delivery to the NERSA Human Resources Department in Arcadia, Pretoria, for the attention of Ms Lena Rankhumise or Mr Nkanyiso Magwaza. Required documents include a roughly 500-word motivation letter, a certified ID copy, your university acceptance letter, a certified academic record, your dissertation topic and abstract, and proof of household income with certified IDs of those persons.

When is the closing date for the 2026 NERSA bursary?

Applications for the 2026 academic year close on 12 February 2026. Late submissions are not considered, so submit your documents well before the deadline.