The NERSA Bursary Programme 2026 has officially opened, offering financial support to qualifying South African students who wish to pursue studies aligned with the country’s energy and regulatory sectors. Administered by the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA), the bursary programme forms part of the regulator’s long-term skills development strategy aimed at strengthening technical, economic, and regulatory capacity in South Africa.
What Is the NERSA Bursary Programme 2026?
The NERSA Bursary Programme is a funding initiative designed to support students studying in disciplines relevant to the regulation of electricity, gas, and petroleum pipelines in South Africa. By investing in students at tertiary level, NERSA aims to build a pipeline of skilled professionals who can contribute meaningfully to the country’s energy sector.
Unlike many bursaries administered by third parties, the NERSA bursary is managed directly by the regulator itself, ensuring transparency, accountability, and alignment with national development priorities.
Who Can Apply for the NERSA Bursary Programme 2026?
Eligibility is one of the most important considerations when applying for the NERSA Bursary Programme 2026. Applicants must meet all required criteria to be considered.
South African Citizenship Requirement
Applicants must be South African citizens with a valid South African ID document. Proof of citizenship is a mandatory requirement and must be included with the application.
Academic Level
The bursary is open to:
- Matric learners who have been accepted or provisionally accepted into a recognised tertiary institution for 2026, and
- Current undergraduate students who are already registered at a recognised South African university or university of technology.
Postgraduate eligibility depends on the specific field of study and institutional requirements as outlined in the official bursary advert.
Related Opportunities 2026
- Funding Bursaries
- Youth Opportunities
- Internship Programme
- Learnership Programme
- Online Courses
- Government Education Updates
Fields of Study Supported by the NERSA Bursary Programme 2026
NERSA funds studies that directly align with its regulatory mandate. While the official advert provides the final list, priority is typically given to programmes in the following areas:
Engineering and Built Environment
- Electrical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Energy-related engineering disciplines
Economics and Finance
- Economics
- Energy Economics
- Accounting
- Finance
Law and Regulatory Studies
- Law (with relevance to energy, administrative, or commercial law)
- Regulatory and policy-related qualifications
Information and Data Disciplines
- Information Technology
- Data Analysis
- Systems-related programmes relevant to regulation
Applicants are encouraged to ensure their chosen qualification clearly aligns with the energy regulation environment.
Academic Performance Requirements
Strong academic performance is a key indicator used by NERSA during the selection process.
- Matric applicants should demonstrate solid results, particularly in Mathematics and Physical Science (where applicable).
- Current students are expected to show consistent academic progress and provide their most recent academic transcripts.
While minimum percentage thresholds may vary by field, NERSA prioritises applicants who demonstrate commitment, capability, and academic discipline.
What Does the NERSA Bursary Cover?
The NERSA Bursary Programme 2026 provides comprehensive financial support, subject to annual approval and bursary conditions.
Coverage generally includes:
- Tuition fees paid directly to the institution
- Prescribed textbooks and study materials
- Accommodation (where applicable)
- A living or subsistence allowance
The exact value of the bursary depends on the institution, course of study, and individual student needs.
Application Form: Where to Find It
NERSA does not use an online application portal.
Important Clarification for Applicants
The official application form is included within the NERSA Bursary Programme 2026 advert (PDF) published on the official NERSA website. There is no separate application form.
Applicants must:
- Download the official bursary PDF
- Complete the embedded application form
- Attach all required supporting documents
- Submit the application using one of the approved methods
Important:
• You must download the PDF above — it contains the application form you must complete and all instructions from NERSA.
• NERSA does not host an online application form on its website.
• Once you complete the form and attach all required documents, you submit the application by email, post, or hand delivery to NERSA as outlined in the official document.
Using unofficial forms or third-party websites may result in disqualification.
How to Apply for the NERSA Bursary Programme 2026
Step 1: Download the Official Application Form
Applicants must download the official bursary advert, which contains the application form and full instructions.
Official NERSA Bursary Programme 2026 application form & document: https://www.nersa.org.za/file/8293
Step 2: Prepare Supporting Documents
Typical supporting documents include:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of Matric certificate (or latest results for Grade 12 learners)
- Full academic transcript for current students
- Proof of acceptance or registration at a recognised institution
- Curriculum Vitae (where required)
All documents should be clear, legible, and properly certified.
Submission Methods
NERSA accepts applications through three official channels only:
Email Submission
Completed applications and supporting documents may be emailed to: bursaries@nersa.org.za
Subject line: NERSA Bursary Programme 2026
Postal Submission
Applications may be posted to:
National Energy Regulator of South Africa
Human Resources Department
PO Box 40343
Arcadia
Pretoria, 0007
South Africa
Hand Delivery
Applications may also be hand-delivered to:
Kulawula House
526 Madiba Street
Arcadia, Pretoria
Applicants should retain proof of submission for their records.
Exact Closing Date for the NERSA Bursary Programme 2026
The confirmed closing date is:
12 February 2026
Applications received after this date will not be considered, regardless of the reason for delay. Early submission is strongly recommended.
Selection Process and Shortlisting
After the closing date, NERSA evaluates applications based on:
- Eligibility compliance
- Academic merit
- Relevance of the chosen field of study
- Alignment with NERSA’s skills needs
Only shortlisted candidates are typically contacted. Meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee selection.
Why the NERSA Bursary Matters
South Africa’s energy sector plays a critical role in economic growth, infrastructure development, and national stability. Through the NERSA Bursary Programme, the regulator invests directly in future professionals who will help shape responsible, efficient, and transparent energy regulation.
For students with a genuine interest in energy, economics, law, or engineering, this bursary represents both financial support and a pathway into a highly specialised public sector environment.
Final Advice to Applicants
Applicants are encouraged to:
- Use only official NERSA sources
- Ensure all documents are complete and accurate
- Submit well before the closing date
- Avoid paying any third party claiming to “assist” with applications
The NERSA Bursary Programme 2026 is a legitimate opportunity, and careful attention to instructions greatly improves the chances of a successful application.
