The City of Johannesburg is once again offering bursaries for the 2026 academic year through its Group Human Capital Management department. This programme shows the city’s promise to support young people, open doors to higher education, and build a better future for Johannesburg’s youth.
These bursaries are meant for bright students living in Johannesburg who plan to study at approved South African universities or colleges. The bursary offers up to R40,000 per year to help with tuition, registration, and study materials. It’s a great opportunity for students who need financial help to reach their goals.
Who Can Apply
To make sure the process is fair, the City has listed clear rules for who can apply.
- Good grades: Applicants must show strong academic results in their latest report or transcript.
- Tertiary admission: You must plan to study at an accredited South African institution and get accepted on your own.
- Course length: The bursary only supports programmes that are at least one academic year long. Postgraduate studies are not included.
- Residency: You must live in Johannesburg and show proof like a municipal bill for water, electricity, or rates.
- Renewal: The bursary can be renewed each year if you keep up good academic performance.
This programme is for students who work hard, dream big, and want to give back to their city.
What the Bursary Covers
The bursary amount is capped at R40,000 each year. It helps with:
- Tuition fees
- Registration fees
- Prescribed textbooks or study materials
Keep in mind that this is not a full-cost bursary. You’ll need to cover any extra costs beyond the R40,000 limit.
Documents You Need
Your application must include all the required certified documents. Incomplete applications won’t be accepted.
| Required Documents | Description |
| Academic record | Latest school or university results |
| South African ID | Certified copy of your ID |
| Proof of residency | A municipal bill or rates statement |
| Parent or guardian income proof | Payslip, or death certificate if deceased |
| Orphan affidavit | If no surviving parents, provide a sworn statement |
Make sure every document is clear, certified, and recent. Missing documents will make your application invalid.
How to Apply
All applications must be done online. No emailed or hand-delivered applications will be accepted.
You can apply directly using this link:
Apply here
Or visit the official City of Johannesburg website:
www.joburg.org.za
Apply early to avoid last-minute problems. Always keep proof that you submitted your form.
Application Deadline
The final day to apply is Friday, 31 October 2025.
Applications sent after this date will not be accepted. Don’t wait until the last day—apply as soon as possible.
What Happens After You Apply
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted due to the high number of applications. If you do not hear from the City within six weeks after the closing date, your application was not successful.
All information you share will be kept private. Make sure your phone number and email address are correct so the City can reach you easily.
Who to Contact
If you have any questions, you can reach out to the bursary coordinators:
- Billy Baloyi: BillyB@joburg.org.za
- Takalani Wakpo: TakalaniW@joburg.org.za
They can help with information about eligibility, the application process, or general queries.
Why This Bursary Matters
This bursary programme is more than just financial aid. It’s a way for Johannesburg to invest in its young people. Many students have dreams but lack the money to study further. This bursary bridges that gap.
By helping talented students from Johannesburg, the city is shaping future leaders, professionals, and innovators. It’s about giving every hardworking learner a fair chance to succeed.
Education builds stronger communities, and this programme shows how the City is committed to making that happen.
Summary Table
| Category | Information |
| Programme | City of Johannesburg Bursary 2026 |
| Eligibility | South African citizens living in Johannesburg |
| Study Fields | Any accredited undergraduate course (no postgrad) |
| Institutions | Accredited South African universities or colleges |
| Amount | Up to R40,000 per year |
| Covers | Tuition, registration, and study materials |
| Application Type | Online only |
| Deadline | Friday, 31 October 2025 |
| Contacts | BillyB@joburg.org.za / TakalaniW@joburg.org.za |
Call to Action
The City of Johannesburg Bursary Programme is a life-changing chance for students who have the passion to learn but lack the funds. If you are a student living in Johannesburg with good grades and big dreams, don’t miss this opportunity.
Read the requirements carefully, prepare your documents, and apply early. Your education is your ticket to a better future — and this bursary could be the first step toward that dream.
FAQs
Who can apply for this bursary?
Only South African citizens who live in Johannesburg and plan to study at an accredited tertiary institution.
How much money does the bursary provide?
It offers up to R40,000 per academic year.
Can I apply for postgraduate studies?
No, this bursary only supports undergraduate programmes.
How will I know if I am selected?
Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted within six weeks after the closing date.
Can I apply offline or by email?
No, all applications must be done online through the official City of Johannesburg website.
