What the NERSA Bursary Is All About
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) is looking for bright students who want to study at master’s or PhD level in 2026. If your research involves electricity, gas pipelines, or oil pipelines, you can apply for a bursary that will help pay for your tuition, books, and living costs. The deadline for applications is 12 February 2026, so get everything ready early.
Who Is NERSA?
NERSA is a public agency that keeps the electricity, gas and oil pipelines in South Africa running safely and fairly. They make sure the prices customers pay are reasonable, the supply stays reliable, and the industry grows in an eco‑friendly way. By giving out bursaries they help students become the next wave of people who can keep the energy system strong.
What the Bursary Covers
If you win the NERSA bursary, it will pay for:
- Your registration and tuition fees
- Rent or accommodation costs
- Either the books you need or a laptop
How much you get depends on a simple money check. The more you need, the more help you will receive.
The bursary is aimed at students whose studies match NERSA’s main areas:
- Electricity regulation and energy system studies
- Gas pipeline regulation
- Oil pipeline regulation
- Other related energy and rule‑making subjects
Who Can Apply?
You must meet every one of these simple rules:
- You have to be a South African citizen.
- You plan to start a master’s or PhD in 2026.
- You have already been accepted to a South African university or university of technology.
- Your grades are strong and you look like you can finish your course successfully.
- You come from a background that has historically had fewer chances.
- Your family needs money; you are not already getting another scholarship.
- You want to work in the energy world after you finish your studies.
If even one of these points is missing, your application will not be considered.
How to Apply
You can send your application in one of three ways, but pick only one. The easiest way is by email, but you can also send a physical letter or drop it off at the NERSA office in Pretoria.
1. Email
Send a message to bursaries@nersa.org.za. Use “NERSA Bursary 2026” in the subject line.
2. Postal Mail
Send your documents to:
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa
Human Resources Department
PO Box 40343
Arcadia, Pretoria 0007
3. In‑Person
Drop your documents at:
NERSA Offices, Kulawula House
526 Madiba Street, Arcadia, Pretoria 0007
In all cases, ask the recipient to give it to Ms Lena Rankhumise or Mr Nkanyiso Magwaza. You do not need a special form; just send the documents listed below.
Documents You Must Send
Make sure you have clear copies of:
- Your South African ID (certified)
- Your highest completed degree record (certified)
- A letter from your university confirming your admission (on official letterhead)
- A short description of your thesis or research idea
- A motivation letter about 500 words that tells us why you deserve this bursary
- Your parents or guardians’ ID copies
- Proof of how much money your household makes (recent payslips, a sworn statement if you or your parents do not work, or a grant/pension statement)
If you forget any item, you may be turned away.
When Do You Need to Apply?
Finish all the paperwork and get it in before 12 February 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted. The sooner you apply, the better chance you have.
Want to Learn More?
If you have any questions about the bursary, you can contact NERSA directly.
Apply now and secure your future in South Africa’s energy sector!
(Click here to send your application and start your journey.)