merSETA Bursary Application for 2026/2027
Detailed guide on merSETA Bursary Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student aspiring to build a career in engineering, manufacturing, automotive, metals, or related technical fields? The merSETA Bursary Programme 2026/2027 is now open for applications, offering financial support to deserving students who wish to pursue qualifications in scarce and critical skills areas within the manufacturing and engineering sector. The Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (merSETA) is mandated to promote skills development and workforce readiness across South Africa’s vital industrial sectors.
The merSETA Bursary provides comprehensive financial assistance that may cover tuition fees, registration costs, prescribed textbooks, accommodation, meals, and in some cases a monthly allowance. Beyond financial support, bursary recipients benefit from workplace exposure, internships, and skills development initiatives aligned with industry needs, ensuring graduates are well-equipped for employment in the manufacturing and engineering environment.
By applying for the merSETA Bursary 2026/2027, students gain more than just funding, they gain access to career-focused training and opportunities that contribute to South Africa’s economic growth and industrial sustainability.
In addition, satrends.co.za offers a wide range of other bursary categories to suit your preference. Click on the links below to access other kinds of bursaries.
Universities in South Africa Bursaries Available for 2026
Government Departments Bursaries Available for 2026
Field of Studies Specified Bursaries Available for 2026
Keep reading to find out more about the eligibility requirements, fields of study covered, application process, and closing date for the merSETA Bursary Programme 2026/2027.
About merSETA Bursary Programme
Each year, merSETA invites academically deserving students to apply for bursary funding aimed at supporting studies in Engineering and Science-related disciplines. The bursary programme targets students who intend to pursue careers within one of merSETA’s five key subsectors:
- Metals and Engineering
- Auto Manufacturing
- Plastics Industries
- Retail Motor and Component Manufacturing
- New Tyre Manufacturing
Students with strong academic performance and a clear interest in these sectors are encouraged to apply, as the programme is designed to develop future professionals who will strengthen South Africa’s manufacturing and engineering workforce.
Fields of Study Covered by the merSETA Bursary
The merSETA bursary supports both University of Technology diploma programmes and university undergraduate degree programmes, depending on the student’s institution and level of study.
University of Technology (National Diploma – Semester Courses)
- Chemical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering (Light and Heavy Current & Electronics)
- Metallurgy and Materials Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering (including Mechatronics)
- Polymer Technology
- Production and Operations Management
University (Undergraduate Degree Programmes – BSc)
- Chemical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering (Light and Heavy Current & Electronic)
- Industrial Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering (including Mechatronics)
- Metallurgy and Materials Engineering
Bursaries may be awarded to first-year students, as well as current students who have already completed part of their qualification with satisfactory academic results but are unable to continue their studies due to financial constraints.
Important: Applicants who already receive other significant funding (such as bursaries, loans, or scholarships) must declare this information to the Bursary Scheme Manager.
Eligibility Requirements for the merSETA Bursary
To be considered for the merSETA bursary, applicants must meet all of the following minimum requirements:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be unemployed and seeking employment within the manufacturing, engineering, and related services sector OR be employed by a company registered with merSETA
- Must hold a Matric certificate (or equivalent) or a post-Matric qualification
- Must meet the minimum admission requirements of the chosen tertiary institution
- Must be studying or intend to study towards an approved Degree or National Diploma
- Must be registered or planning to study at a recognised University or University of Technology in South Africa
- Failure to meet any of these criteria will result in the application not being considered.
How to Apply for merSETA Bursary 2026/2027
Applications for the merSETA bursary must be submitted through your university’s bursary or financial aid office. Interested students should contact their institution directly to request the official merSETA bursary application form.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants will be required to submit certified copies of the following documents:
- South African ID document
- Matric certificate or equivalent qualification
- Proof of application or registration at a recognised tertiary institution
- Latest academic transcript (for current tertiary students)
- Proof of any other study-related funding
Note: Incomplete applications or missing documentation will result in automatic disqualification.
merSETA Bursary Closing Dates for 2026/2027
- 30 June – First Semester
- 30 September – Second Semester
Applications submitted after these dates will not be accepted, so applicants are encouraged to apply well in advance.
Contact Details of merSETA
For further information or bursary-related enquiries, contact merSETA directly using the details below:
- Telephone: 010 219 3000
- Call Centre: 086 163 7738
- Email: bursaries@merseta.org.za
- Postal Address:
merSETA
PO Box 61826
Marshalltown
2107
