The Emfuleni Local Municipality in Gauteng has opened its bursary for first-year students starting in 2027. If you live in the Emfuleni area, passed matric with an average of 60% or more, and come from a household earning no more than R350 000 a year, you may qualify for tuition, registration fees, books and a laptop. Applications close on 30 November 2026.
About the Emfuleni Local Municipality Bursary
Emfuleni Local Municipality is in the south of Gauteng, in the Sedibeng District, and includes Vereeniging and Vanderbijlpark. Manufacturing is a major part of the local economy, and many families in the area depend on it.
Municipal bursaries exist to build skills in the community that the municipality and local economy need. This one funds first-year full-time undergraduate study in Commerce, Human and Social Sciences, Law, Science and Technology, and Technical Skills such as electrical, civil and chemical engineering. Other scarce and critical skills based on municipal needs also qualify.
Preference goes to applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds, with families on the indigent register considered first, and to those studying at local institutions. For a learner from the Vaal whose family cannot afford first-year fees, this is a real chance to start university or college without debt.
What Is Covered
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Books
- A laptop
- Accommodation and food, for selected students only
RELATED: Dr JS Moroka Local Municipality Bursary 2027: Engineering Studies, Closes 30 November
Who Can Apply
- South African citizen living in the Emfuleni Local Municipality area, Gauteng
- Matric with a minimum overall average of 60%
- Applied to, or accepted by, a South African university or other higher education institution
- Total household income of no more than R350 000 per year
- Not receiving any other bursary funding
- Applying for first-year, full-time undergraduate study in 2027
Required Documents
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified matric certificate or statement of results
- Certified mid-year results
- Proof of admission showing study duration, course scope and tuition costs
- Certified Emfuleni utility bill as proof of residence
- Parent or guardian proof of income (certified payslips, or an affidavit if unemployed)
- High school testimonial letter
How to Apply
- Download the application form (PDF), or collect it from municipal offices or public libraries between 07:45 and 16:15.
- Complete the form fully and accurately.
- Collect all the compulsory documents listed above and have them certified.
- Deliver the form and documents to Emfuleni Local Municipality, Corner Klasie Havenga and Frikkie Meyer Boulevard, Box 3, Vanderbijlpark, Gauteng, 1900.
- Questions can go to MarthaM@emfuleni.gov.za or 084 686 4418. Only shortlisted candidates are contacted.
Apply at Emfuleni Local Municipality
Closing Date
The closing date for Emfuleni Local Municipality Bursary is 30 November 2026. No late applications will be accepted.
Why It Matters
Youth unemployment in South Africa remains above 45%, and a post-school qualification is one of the strongest protections against it. The problem for many Vaal families is the first-year cost of fees, books and a laptop.
A local municipality bursary has fewer applicants than a national corporate bursary, so your odds can be better if you meet the criteria. Get your documents certified early, as certified copies take time, and make sure every compulsory document is included, because missing items can sink an application.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply if I am already in second year?
No. The bursary is for first-year full-time undergraduate study in 2027.
Do I have to live in Emfuleni?
Yes. You must live in the Emfuleni Local Municipality area and prove it with a certified Emfuleni utility bill.
Is there an online application?
The process described is a PDF form that you deliver to the municipal offices in Vanderbijlpark.
What if I hear nothing?
Only shortlisted candidates are contacted. If you hear nothing, treat the application as unsuccessful.
