The KZN Government Bursary 2026 is a key funding opportunity for students who live in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa and want support for higher education costs.
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The bursary is provided by the KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government to help students pay for tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and other study-related costs.
This funding supports studies at recognised public universities and TVET colleges within South Africa.
The official closing date for applications is 15 February 2026. All applicants must act before this deadline to be considered.
This bursary aims to develop skilled graduates who may contribute to the province’s priority sectors after completing their studies.
What is the KZN Government Bursary?
The KZN Government Bursary is a provincial funding initiative that helps young people in KwaZulu-Natal access tertiary education.
It provides financial support for students who are accepted or registered for full-time study at public higher learning institutions or TVET colleges.
The bursary covers tuition fees, prescribed textbooks, accommodation where needed, and a living allowance or stipend in many cases.
Priority is given to students studying in fields that align with the province’s skills needs.
It is open to both undergraduate and qualifying postgraduate candidates who meet the eligibility rules.
Who Can Apply for the KZN Government Bursary?
To qualify for the KZN Government Bursary 2026, applicants must meet key criteria:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Reside in KwaZulu-Natal Province.
- Be accepted or provisionally accepted for full-time study at an accredited public university or TVET college.
- Have completed Matric or be in the final year of study with strong academic results.
- Provide all required documentation when submitting the application.
Applicants from financially disadvantaged backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.
Students with disabilities can also apply and may receive special consideration.
Preference may be given to candidates studying within KwaZulu-Natal and in fields that support public sector development goals.
What Fields of Study Are Covered?
The KZN Government Bursary Programme funds students in a wide range of study areas that support provincial needs.
Different departments within the KwaZulu-Natal Government partner with the bursary programme to support students in specific disciplines.
Examples of funded fields include construction studies, agricultural sciences, engineering (such as civil or agricultural engineering), business and finance, transport and logistics, and other scarce skill sectors.
Exact fields may vary each year and are usually outlined on the application form or bursary poster at collection points.
Where Can I Download the KZN Government Bursary Application Form?
Unlike many online bursary applications, the KZN Government Bursary requires applicants to collect a physical application form rather than download it directly from a single website.
Official application forms are available at:
- Operation Sukuma Sakhe War Rooms in KwaZulu-Natal.
- Department of Education District Offices.
- Local municipalities and libraries throughout KwaZulu-Natal.
- Student Funding Offices at higher education institutions in the province.
Collect the form from one of these places. After filling it out and attaching your supporting documents, you must submit it to the correct office based on your chosen department or field of study.
How Do I Complete the Application Form?
When you collect the official bursary application form, complete it carefully and clearly.
Provide accurate personal information, details of your study plans, and your contact information.
Attach certified copies of all required supporting documents. These commonly include:
- Your South African ID document.
- Certified Matric certificate or latest academic results.
- Proof of acceptance or registration at a recognised tertiary institution.
- Proof of residence in KwaZulu-Natal.
- Proof of household income or a sworn affidavit if necessary.
Make sure all documents are certified by a commissioner of oaths and are legible. Incomplete or poorly certified documents can lead to disqualification.
Clear and organised submissions increase your chance of being considered for funding.
Where Do I Submit My Completed Application?
Once your application form is complete and all supporting documents are attached, you must submit the package to the correct office.
Depending on the bursary department you are applying to, you can submit your application by post or hand delivery to one of the following provincial offices:
- Department of Human Settlements
Private Bag X54367, Durban, 4000
Or hand deliver to Eagle Building, 353-363 Dr Pixley Kaseme Street, Durban. - Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Private Bag X9059, Pietermaritzburg, 3200
Or hand deliver to R103 Cedara Off-Ramp, Pietermaritzburg. - Department of Transport
Private Bag X9043, Pietermaritzburg, 3200
Or hand deliver to Inkosi Mhlabunzima Maphumalo House, 172 Burger Street, Pietermaritzburg. - Department of Provincial Treasury
P.O. Box 3613, Pietermaritzburg, 3200
Or hand deliver to Treasury House, 145 Chief Albert Luthuli Road, Pietermaritzburg.
What Is the Closing Date for the KZN Government Bursary?
The closing date for the KZN Government Bursary 2026 is 15 February 2026.Â
Applications must be received and processed by the bursary offices before this date.
Late applications will not be accepted or considered under any circumstances, so it is important to plan, gather all required documents, fill out your form correctly, and submit your application well before the deadline.
If you need help or have specific questions about this bursary or where to collect the application form, contact the relevant provincial department offices directly.