If you’re a South African student living in Mpumalanga and dreaming about a career in water or environmental science, the Inkomati‑Usuthu Catchment Management Agency (IUCMA) has a new chance for you. They’re looking for people to join their External Bursary Programme 2026. This program will pay for most of your college costs so you can study subjects that help keep our water clean and manage it wisely.
What Can You Study?
The bursary covers only a handful of subjects. These are the ones that IUCMA thinks are most useful for the Inkomati‑Usuthu Water Management Area in Mpumalanga.
- BSc / B Degree in Environmental Science
- BSc in Hydrology or Water Resource Management
- BSc in Chemistry, Biochemistry or Microbiology
- BSc in Geohydrology, Geomorphology or Botany
Who Can Apply?
To be eligible, you need to meet every requirement below. Even if you skip one, your application will not go forward.
- You must be a South African citizen and live in the Mpumalanga Province that IUCMA covers.
- Send a certified copy of your South African ID.
- For those finishing high school (matric): you need at least a 65% average and a letter that proves you are accepted or almost accepted at a recognized university.
- For students who are already registered: show a certified record with at least a 60% average.
- Proof that you live in Mpumalanga – a letter from your local municipality or a confirmation signed by a Headman or Chief will do.
- Proof of your household income and a SAPS affidavit (this is a form that confirms your family’s earnings).
- You cannot be receiving money from another bursary or funding program.
Women and people with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply.
What Does the Bursary Cover?
The support is straight‑forward. You’ll get help with these costs:
- Registration fees
- Tuition and exam fees
- Accommodation if you need it
- Meals while you’re studying
- Study materials you must use
- A monthly stipend for living expenses
Those who win will need to sign a contract with IUCMA. This means you’ll agree to study in the chosen field and help the agency when your course is finished.
How to Apply
You can pick up a paper form at any IUCMA office in Nelspruit, Bushbuckridge, or Piet Retief, or you can fill it out online. The PDF is easy to download:
Download the 2026 External Bursary Application Form
Send Your Application
Once you have completed the form, email it to Bursaries@iucma.co.za. Make sure you attach every document that is listed above. The agency does not accept applications that are mailed or handed in person.
Important:
- All required documents must be attached.
- Hand‑delivered or posted papers will not be considered.
When Do You Need to Submit?
The application window closes on a specific date (not shown here). If you do not hear back from IUCMA within one month after that deadline, your application will be considered unsuccessful.
Questions?
- Ms D Malumane / Ms Z Tibane
- Phone: 013 753 9000