The MerSETA Bursary offers financial support to South African students who plan to build careers in manufacturing and engineering.
For 2026, the bursary remains a key skills development tool, especially for learners in Gauteng.
It focuses on scarce and critical skills aligned with industry demand.
MerSETA operates as one of South Africa’s Sector Education and Training Authorities.
It supports growth in manufacturing, engineering, and related services through structured skills funding.
What Is the MerSETA Bursary?
The MerSETA Bursary funds studies that address skills shortages in the manufacturing and engineering sector.
It targets students with strong academic results in mathematics and physical science.
The bursary supports both university and university of technology qualifications.
Funding aligns with MerSETA’s annual Sector Skills Plan.
According to the official bursary brochure, MerSETA prioritises programmes that strengthen industrial capacity and economic growth.
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Who Should Apply for the MerSETA Bursary?
The bursary suits learners who want practical, industry-focused careers.
It supports both employed and unemployed South Africans.
Eligible applicants include:
- South African citizens
- Learners with Grade 12 or an equivalent qualification
- Students with strong results in mathematics and physical science
- Unemployed youth seeking entry into the manufacturing sector
- Employees of companies registered with MerSETA
MerSETA also considers continuing students who lack funding to complete their studies.
MerSETA Bursary Selection Criteria
MerSETA applies strict criteria to ensure fair and strategic allocation.
Key selection rules:
- Applicants must meet admission requirements of the institution
- Bursaries prioritise first-year students
- Continuing students may receive funding under special conditions
- Thirty percent of bursaries go to women
- Fields of study must match scarce and critical skills
Direct family members of MerSETA staff or board members may apply.
They follow the same selection process as all other applicants.
Which Courses Does the MerSETA Bursary Fund?
The MerSETA Bursary supports qualifications aligned with manufacturing and engineering needs.
University undergraduate programmes:
- BSc Engineering Electrical and Electronic
- BSc Engineering Chemical
- BSc Engineering Metallurgy and Materials
- BSc Engineering Industrial
- BSc Engineering with Mechatronics
University of Technology programmes:
- National Diploma in Electrical Engineering
- National Diploma in Chemical Engineering
- National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering
- National Diploma in Metallurgy and Materials
- Industrial Engineering
- Production and Operations Management
- Polymer Technology
MerSETA reviews funded programmes annually.
Only approved qualifications receive support.
What Does the MerSETA Bursary Cover?
The bursary provides structured financial assistance.
Coverage depends on the approved value set by MerSETA.
Funding usually includes:
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed learning material
- Limited allowances, where approved
MerSETA determines funding levels after application review.
Students sign a bursary agreement before disbursement.
MerSETA Bursary Closing Dates for 2026
MerSETA follows a semester-based application cycle.
Expected closing dates:
- 30 June for first-semester intake
- 30 September for second-semester intake
Applicants should confirm dates directly with MerSETA.
Late submissions usually receive no consideration.
How to Apply for the MerSETA Bursary
MerSETA manages bursary enquiries through its official channels.
Application steps:
- Confirm your qualification matches MerSETA priorities
- Secure provisional admission at an accredited institution
- Prepare certified supporting documents
- Submit your application before the closing date
Official contact details:
- Website: www.merseta.org.za
- Email: bursaries@merseta.org.za
- Telephone: 010 219 3000
Always rely on official sources for application forms and updates
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is the MerSETA Bursary available for 2026?
Yes. MerSETA continues funding aligned qualifications annually, subject to budget approval.
Does MerSETA fund private colleges?
MerSETA supports accredited universities and universities of technology only.
Does MerSETA fund postgraduate studies?
The bursary mainly supports undergraduate and diploma studies.
The MerSETA Bursary for 2026 funds engineering and manufacturing studies for South African students. It targets scarce skills, prioritises women, and supports approved university and diploma programmes.
