Department of Water and Sanitation
Department of Water and Sanitation Bursary
Closes
30 September 2026
Value
Full tuition, housing, stipend
Level
1st Year Undergrad & Honours
For
South African Citizens
Sector
Water & Sanitation
Work-back
Up to 3 years
About this bursary
The Department of Water and Sanitation offers comprehensive financial support to South African students entering their first year of undergraduate or honours studies. The award covers tuition, accommodation, learning materials, meals, and a living stipend for qualified science and engineering candidates.
This initiative aims to address critical skill shortages in the public water sector. It prioritises students with strong academic track records who face financial constraints and plan to attend South African public tertiary institutions.
Bursary recipients are required to join the Water Learning Academy for up to three years after completing their qualification. Preference is given to applicants from disadvantaged backgrounds, rural areas, and students living with disabilities.
Obligation
Recipients must complete up to three years of service at the Water Learning Academy after finishing their studies.
Courses of study covered
What the bursary covers
Who can apply
You qualify if
- You must be a South African citizen entering your first year of undergraduate or honours study in 2027.
- You must intend to study full-time at an accredited public university in South Africa.
- You must demonstrate strong academic performance and proven financial need.
- You cannot hold any secondary funding sources, such as NSFAS or another private bursary.
- Students living with disabilities and applicants from rural communities are encouraged to apply.
You do not qualify if
- Non-South African citizens.
- Students enrolled at private higher education institutions.
- Students receiving NSFAS or another bursary.
- Part-time students or those beyond their first year of study.
Documents you need to submit
- Certified copy of your South African identity document
- Certified copies of Grade 11 final results and latest Grade 12 results (if currently in matric)
- Certified copy of Matric certificate (if completed school)
- Official proof of university application, provisional acceptance, or firm offer letter
- Official academic record and acceptance letter (for first-year Honours applicants)
- Proof of household income (recent payslips, affidavit if unemployed, or SASSA grant statement)
Provide clear certified copies of all requested documents.
How to apply
- 1Download the official Department of Water and Sanitation bursary application form.
- 2Complete all required fields on the application document.
- 3Gather clear certified copies of all listed supporting documents.
- 4Send your application form and attachments via email to [email protected].
- 5Include 'DWS Bursary 2027' in your email subject line.
Ensure your email application is submitted before the closing date.