The KwaZulu‑Natal Government is looking for bright students to fill a range of bursaries for the 2026 academic year. If you live in the province, are 18‑35 years old, and want to study a subject that the province needs, you can apply for a free scholarship that will pay for your tuition, books, meals, and sometimes even a room. Applications run from 31 December 2025 until 15 February 2026, and you should aim to study at a public university in KwaZulu‑Natal – that will give you an extra edge.
Why bursaries are useful
A bursary takes the cost of university out of your hands so you can focus on your studies. It also comes with a promise that you’ll work for the department that gave you the money for a few years after you finish your degree. The program is open to students with or without a disability, and the government says it really wants to help people from all backgrounds.
Bursaries by Department
Agriculture and Rural Development
The Agriculture Department is looking for students to learn about animal care, farming technology, and pest control. The courses they are funding are:
- Veterinary Science (BVSc)
- Agricultural Engineering
- Industrial Engineering (National Diploma)
- Bachelor of Veterinary
- Agricultural Entomology
If you want to study one of these subjects, contact the department:
- Mr. T.E. Majola – 033 343 8012 or 076 940 9526
- Mrs. Z. Mthembu – 035 780 6727 or 064 305 8019
- Ms. N.N.T. Khambula – 033 355 9272 or 076 937 7373
Send your application to the Director of Human Resource Development at:
Private Bag X9059, Pietermaritzburg, 3200
or drop it in person on R103 Cedara Off‑Ramp, Pietermaritzburg.
Transport
If you’re interested in roads, shipping, or city planning, the Transport Department offers bursaries for:
- Civil Engineering
- Transport and Logistics
- Transport Economics
- Maritime Studies
- Urban and Regional Planning
Reach out to:
- Ms. Nomasonto Gwamanda – 033 355 8828
- Ms. Nokwabelwa Ngcobo – 033 355 8899
- Ms. Reshika Sing – 033 355 8771
The application goes to the Bursary Section:
Postal: Private Bag X9043, Pietermaritzburg, 3200
Physical: 172 Burger Street, Inkosi Mhlabunzima Maphumulo House
Human Settlements
For students who want to work on housing, city development, or community projects, the Human Settlements Department offers bursaries. You can contact:
- Ms. M.P. Phama – 031 336 5195
- Ms. X. Bhengu – 031 336 5380
- Ms. T. Hlophe – 031 319 3700
Applications go to:
Director, Organisational Development
Private Bag X54367, Durban, 4000
Or hand‑deliver the forms to the Eagle Building, 14th Floor, 353–363 Dr Pixley Kaseme Street, Durban.
Provincial Treasury
If you’re good at numbers and want a career in accounting, the Treasury is offering a bursary for a Bachelor’s degree in Accounting. People with disabilities are especially encouraged to apply. Contact:
- Mrs. T. Suleman – 033 897 4372
- Ms. C. Sibisi – 033 897 4391
Send your papers to:
Bursary Unit – P.O. Box 3613, Pietermaritzburg, 3200
or visit Treasury House, 145 Chief Albert Luthuli Road.
Who Can Apply?
- Age 18–35
- Resident of KwaZulu‑Natal
- Have a Grade 12/Matric diploma
- Have an acceptance or provisional acceptance letter from a public university, or you’re already studying one of the listed subjects
What to Bring
You need the official bursary form (grab it from the Education Department offices, libraries, or online). Then you’ll need:
- Certified ID copy
- Certified Matric certificate and current grades
- Proof of income (payslip, bank statement, or an unemployment letter)
- Proof of university registration or acceptance
- Proof of residence from a ward councillor
- A profiling certificate if you have one
Key Points to Remember
- The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, meals or a stipend, and textbooks.
- You must sign a service contract with the department that gives you the money.
- Priority goes to students studying at a KZN university.
- The government can only fund a limited number of applicants, so not everyone will get it.
- They will only write to those who are successful.
- If you haven’t heard back in 4 months after the closing date, your application was probably not accepted.
Application Deadline
The last day to apply is 15 February 2026. Late forms will not be taken.
If you feel ready to apply, you can start by visiting the official bursaries page. Click here to explore the details and download the application forms. Good luck – this could be the first step to a bright future in one of these important fields.