National Disaster Management Centre
NDMC Bursary
Closes
30 September 2026
Value
Full tuition and registration
Level
Undergraduate to Master's
For
SA Citizens
Sector
Disaster Management & Fire Services
Type
Partial bursary
About this bursary
The Department of Cooperative Governance funds this bursary through the National Disaster Management Centre. It pays for full registration and tuition costs for students pursuing degrees or diplomas in disaster response and fire sciences.
The scheme aims to strengthen South Africa's capacity to handle emergency situations, risk reduction, and public safety. Candidates pursuing undergraduate degrees, advanced diplomas, postgraduate diplomas, or Master's degrees at public tertiary institutions can apply.
Funding excludes living expenses, textbooks, meals, and transport. However, Master's degree candidates receive a resources allowance of up to R11 000 to assist with research work.
Courses of study covered
What the bursary covers
Who can apply
You qualify if
- Applicants must hold South African citizenship and be in Matric or have completed Matric.
- You must be enrolled or accepted at a recognized public higher education institution in South Africa.
- Undergraduate, Advanced Diploma, and Postgraduate Diploma applicants need a minimum academic average of 60%.
- Master's degree applicants must achieve a minimum academic average of 65%.
- Applicants with disabilities are encouraged to submit applications.
You do not qualify if
- The bursary does not fund PhD qualifications or short certificate courses.
- Students attending private higher education institutions are not eligible.
Documents you need to submit
- Certified copy of South African identity document
- Certified copy of Matric certificate
- Proof of application, acceptance, or registration on official institution letterhead
- Latest academic transcript on official letterhead if currently studying
- Two-page Curriculum Vitae for Master's degree applicants
- Research proposal addressing one of the 16 priority thematic areas for Master's applicants
Ensure all supporting documents are clear and officially certified.
How to apply
- 1Visit the online application portal using a desktop computer or laptop.
- 2Register a new user account on the portal.
- 3Log into your account and complete all required personal and academic details.
- 4Upload certified copies of all necessary supporting documents.
- 5Submit your finished application before the closing deadline.
Note that the online application portal cannot be accessed via mobile phones or tablets.