What’s the Deal?
Umzimvubu Local Municipality is offering a special External Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year. This is a scholarship that will pay for most of your college costs if you’re a first‑year student heading to university in 2026 and live in either KwaBhaca (Mount Frere) or EmaXesibeni (Mount Ayliff). The bursary can cover registration fees, tuition, housing, and textbooks – basically everything that can make a family feel the money pinch when a child goes to university.
Quick Facts
- Name: Umzimvubu Local Municipality External Bursary Programme
- Year: 2026
- Who can apply: First‑year undergrads starting in 2026
- Where: Only from KwaBhaca (Mount Frere) or EmaXesibeni (Mount Ayliff)
- What it pays: Registration, tuition, accommodation, study materials
- How to apply: Hand‑deliver the completed form to one of the two office locations (see below)
- Important: Missing any document will disqualify you
Why You Shouldn’t Wait
The application deadline is 25 February 2026. Submit early because the municipal offices can get busy, especially on the last day. You need to be sure every page of your application is filled out correctly.
What the Bursary Covers
If you win, the money will go straight toward the main costs that stop students from enrolling:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Rent or university dormitory costs
- Books and other study supplies
It’s not a small portion; it is a full package that lets you focus on school rather than money.
Who Can Apply
The scholarship is only for first‑year university or TVET college students who will start in 2026. If you meet the location and academic rules, you’re welcome to apply.
Must‑Have Documents
You cannot miss any of these:
- Motivational letter – a short essay telling why you deserve it.
- Grade 12 certificate – proof that you did well in high school.
- Proof of residence – a letter from the local Ward Councillor confirming you live in Mount Frere or Mount Ayliff.
- South African ID – a certified copy.
- Acceptance or enrolment letter – showing you’re set for 2026.
- Proof of financial need – for example a statement of household income or, if a parent has died, a death certificate and affidavit.
Missing a single item will mean your application gets rejected.
Checklist Before You Submit
Personal Docs
- Certified ID
- Grade 12 certificate
Academic Proof
- Strong Grade 12 results
- Acceptance or enrolment letter for 2026
Residency Proof
- Ward Councillor letter
Financial Need
- Household income proof or death certificate and affidavit
Motivational Letter
- A clear, honest story about who you are, your achievements, and why the bursary matters
Writing a Winning Motivational Letter
Keep it simple and straight to the point. Show the evaluator who you are and why you need help. A good layout could look like this:
- Intro – say your name, where you live.
- Academic record – highlight your best grades.
- Future plans – describe what you’ll study and why.
- Financial situation – explain why you need money.
- Thank you – show appreciation and promise to use the support responsibly.
Make sure the letter is neat, free of spelling errors, and respectful.
Where to Get the Form
Download the official application form from the municipal site:
Apply Now – Umzimvubu Local Municipality External Bursary Application Form (2026)
How to Submit
The municipal office only accepts paper submissions. Drop your complete application at one of these spots:
- Dabula Street, Sophia, KwaBhaca (Mount Frere), 5090
- 67 Church Street, EmaXesibeni (Mount Ayliff), 4735
No emails, no online upload—just bring it in and hand it to the Corporate Services Department.
Need More Info?
If you’re unsure about anything, call or visit the municipal office. The team is ready to help you understand what you need and how to put your best foot forward.
Ready to Apply?
Don’t let the deadline slip. Gather your documents, write a clear motivational letter, and hand in your application early. Good luck, and remember: this bursary can be the key that unlocks your university dreams.
Check out more about the Umzimvubu Local Municipality by visiting our home page.