MQA Bursary South Africa 2026 | Undergraduate & TVET Funding Opportunity
📢 Applications Now Open: MQA Bursary for 2026
The Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) invites South African students to apply for their 2026 bursary programme. This exciting opportunity supports both unemployed and employed learners pursuing studies in mining and minerals-related qualifications at public universities and TVET colleges across South Africa.
🏛️ About the MQA
Established under the Mine Health and Safety Act No. 29 of 1996, the MQA is a Sector Education and Training Authority (SETA) focused on building skills, promoting equity, and ensuring safety and productivity in the South African mining and minerals sector.
🎓 Fields Covered
University/University of Technology Degrees:
Analytical Chemistry
Chemical, Electrical, Electro-Mechanical, Industrial, Mechanical, Metallurgical, Mining Engineering
Environmental Health/Management, Environmental Science
Geology
Jewellery Design & Manufacturing
Mine Surveying
Occupational Health, Hygiene, and Medicine
Operations Management
Quality Management
TVET College Nated (N4–N6) & NCV Courses:
Boilermaker, Welder
Bricklayer, Carpenter & Joiner
Electrician, Instrumentation Mechanic
Fitter & Turner, Mechanical Fitter
Mechatronics, Millwright
Automotive & Diesel Mechanics
Pipe Fitter, Plumber, Rigger Ropesman
Note: Up to 20% of bursary funds may be allocated to other relevant qualifications at MQA's discretion.
💰 What the MQA Bursary Covers
Unemployed Bursary:
Full tuition fees
Accommodation allowance
Book allowance
Meals allowance
Employed Bursary:
Tuition fees
Book allowance
📋 Eligibility Criteria
✅ Unemployed Bursary:
South African citizen
Currently in or completed Matric
Intending to study full-time in one of the listed fields (undergraduate only)
Enrolled or planning to enrol at a public university or TVET college
Must remain unemployed during studies
Combined household income ≤ R600,000/year
Preference: HDIs, females, people with disabilities, rural applicants, strong academics
✅ Employed Bursary:
South African citizen
Currently employed in the mining/minerals sector
Enrolled or planning to enrol at a public institution
NOT currently on an MQA internship or P1/P2 programme
Preference: HDIs, females, people with disabilities, rural applicants, strong academics
📝 How to Apply
Click the link below to access the online application form and submit your documents:
📄 Required Supporting Documents
Ensure certified copies and clarity of the following documents:
South African ID
Grade 11 final / Matric mid-year results (if in Matric)
Matric certificate (if completed)
Proof of acceptance for 2026 (if available)
Full tertiary academic record (if currently studying)
Parent(s)/Guardian(s) ID and income proof
Payslips, affidavits, SASSA proof, or death certificate (as applicable)
🗓️ Closing Date: 31 July 2025
Late applications will not be considered. Apply early to ensure all documentation is in order.
📞 Contact MQA for Bursary Enquiries
📧 General Contact Emails:
Mr. Diiteleni Tshisevhe: DiiteleniT@mqa.org.za
Ms. Jenny Kekana: JennyK@mqa.org.za
Mr. Tebogo Thankge: TebogoT@mqa.org.za
Mr. Vutomi Chauke: VutomiC@mqa.org.za
☎️ Direct Phone Support:
011 547 5705 / 2654 / 2755 / 2625
Each official supports specific institutions—refer to the full list above for institution-specific assistance.
📌 Final Tip
Double-check that all documents are certified and complete before submitting. Incomplete applications may be disqualified without feedback.
🟢 Successful applicants will be contacted by 1 October 2025. If you don’t hear back by then, consider your application unsuccessful.
Let me know if you need assistance.