Get a Free Ticket to a College Degree – The RSR Bursary 2026
If you’re a South African high‑school graduate or a current student who wants to study in a university, college or technology institute, the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) has a chance for you. They’re offering a bursary for the year 2026 that will help pay for your tuition and give you a chance to work in one of the most important safety roles in the country. Below is everything you need to know to apply and win a spot.
What is the RSR Bursary 2026?
The RSR is a public company that keeps trains safe. It was created by the Railway Safety Act of 2024 and works with all train operators inside South Africa and from neighbouring countries. To keep trains safe, it needs skilled people. That’s why the RSR is giving out bursaries to young South Africans who want to study subjects that help the railway system run smoothly.
The bursary is for anyone between 15 and 35 years old, who is a South African citizen and does not already have another scholarship or sponsorship.
Which subjects can you study?
The RSR wants students who will help improve railway safety, so the bursary covers a range of useful fields:
- Electrical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Information Technology
- Human Resources Management
- Media and Communications
- Law
- Financial Management
- Internal Audit
- Supply Chain Management
- Risk Management
You can choose any of these subjects at an accredited TVET college, university of technology or university (public or private) in South Africa. The money will help cover your tuition and, in some cases, living costs for the first year.
When do you need to apply?
- Deadline: 23 December 2025
- Application portal: Open online, so you can fill it out from home.
Make sure you get everything ready before the deadline. Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Who can apply?
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | 15 – 35 years |
| Citizenship | South African |
| Other bursaries | None |
| Interview | Must be ready to talk if selected |
| Agreement | Must sign a bursary agreement |
| Proof of admission | Show a letter that says you’re accepted for the upcoming academic year |
| Eligibility for chosen course | Must be able to study the course at an approved institution |
| Grade 11/12 results | If you’re in high‑school, you need at least a 65 % average |
If you’re already in university, show your most recent official transcript. If you’re still in high school, attach your Grade 11 results or Grade 12 mid‑term results.
What documents do you need?
- Certified copy of your admission/registration letter for the year you want to study.
- Certified copy of your latest official academic record (if you’re already at a tertiary institution).
- Certified copy of your Grade 11 or Grade 12 mid‑term results.
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- A motivational letter – explain why you deserve this bursary.
- A quotation of tuition fees for the academic year.
All certificates must be clear and recently certified, so that the RSR can verify the information.
How to apply
Step 1 – Go to the online portal
https://rsr.mcidirecthire.com/Bursary/External/Job?Ref=TEkBhDYErs0qhHgueWeCgt_yRI-cnPLR1MRk1RR6Cpou3ktpvROhSqni_BGkK6j0mNgO8HGpAtYg6deIg_8MJVQ9Qodp3Bpxs-w_gRaYmXvYj8ZmWES0IbV2mUzp4HpI3tOAczj79NEUhvPtCcxxAQ
Step 2 – Fill out the form
Answer all questions and upload your documents. Double‑check that every file is in the correct format and that your name matches your ID.
Step 3 – Submit online
Click the “Submit” button before 23 December 2025. After you submit, keep a copy of your application for your records.
If you prefer, you can download the paper forms from the RSR careers page: http://www.rsr.org.za/careers.
Why you should apply
- Free tuition for a full year in a field that is in high demand.
- Career start in the railway safety sector, a vital part of South Africa’s infrastructure.
- Professional network – you’ll meet people who work on trains, roads and safety regulations.
- Future prospects – many RSR employees go on to great roles in industry or public service.
The RSR may decide not to award a bursary after the call, so apply as early as possible and give them all the required paperwork.
FAQ
What if I already have another bursary?
You cannot apply. The RSR only wants new support for students who have no other financial aid.
Will my personal information be kept safe?
Yes. The RSR follows the POPIA law (Act 4 of 2013) to protect your data.
Can I ask about my application?
If you have questions, send an email to bursaries@rsr.org.za. They’ll help you through the process.
Ready to jump in?
Your future in a safe and growing industry could start with one click. Gather your documents, write a short story about why you need this help, and then head over to the application portal. Remember, the clock is ticking – 23 December 2025 is your last chance.
Good luck, and we hope you’ll become the next railway safety champion!