City of Johannesburg Bursaries: Your Guide to Undergraduate Opportunities
The City of Johannesburg is offering a significant number of undergraduate bursaries for the 2027 academic year, aiming to support the educational advancement of its youth. With 200 opportunities available, this program provides a valuable chance for South African students who are permanent residents of Johannesburg to pursue full-time higher education. This initiative underscores the city’s commitment to developing its residents’ skills and fostering educational growth.
The bursary covers undergraduate qualifications at accredited South African tertiary institutions and can be renewed annually, provided satisfactory academic performance is maintained. It’s important to note that this program specifically targets undergraduate studies, and postgraduate qualifications are not included.
About the City of Johannesburg Bursary Programme
The City of Johannesburg’s bursary program is designed to empower young individuals within the municipality by providing financial assistance for their tertiary education. By offering 200 bursaries, the city aims to address skills gaps and promote access to education for its residents. This program is a key part of the City’s broader strategy to enhance the quality of life and economic opportunities for its citizens.
The bursaries are intended for full-time undergraduate studies and are applicable to a wide array of fields. The City of Johannesburg, as South Africa’s largest city and a major economic center, is dedicated to creating an environment where its residents can thrive through education and skill development.
Supported Fields of Study for 2027
The City of Johannesburg supports a broad spectrum of undergraduate fields of study, ensuring that a diverse range of academic pursuits can benefit from this bursary. Applicants must ensure their chosen course is offered by a recognized South African tertiary institution.
Actuarial Science
This field focuses on the mathematical and statistical aspects of risk assessment, particularly in finance and insurance.
Built Environment
This category includes professions related to the design, construction, and management of physical surroundings, such as Architecture, Construction Management, Urban and Regional Planning, and Quantity Surveying.
Commerce
Undergraduate programs in Commerce, which cover business and trade, are eligible for funding.
Community Services
Programs related to community development, social work, and public services fall under this umbrella.
Emergency Management Services
This includes studies focused on responding to and managing emergencies, such as disaster management and paramedic training.
Engineering
All fields of Engineering are supported, encompassing disciplines like Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial, and other specialized engineering programs.
Health
The bursary extends to all fields within Health sciences, provided the qualification meets the City’s requirements. This could include nursing, physiotherapy, and other medical-related studies.
Finance
Specific finance-related fields are supported, including Accounting, Auditing, Small Business Management, Supply Chain Management, Treasury, Economics, and Risk and Compliance Management.
Information Technology and Management
Undergraduate studies in Information Technology and related management fields are included, recognizing the growing importance of digital skills.
Humanities and Social Sciences
This broad category covers disciplines that explore human society and relationships, such as psychology, sociology, history, and languages.
International Relations and Protocol
Programs focused on diplomacy, global affairs, and the management of international interactions are supported.
Legal Studies
Students pursuing undergraduate law degrees and related legal qualifications are eligible.
Logistics
This field covers the management of the flow of goods and services, from origin to consumption.
Marketing
Undergraduate marketing programs, which focus on promoting and selling products or services, are included.
Municipal Governance
Specific areas like Municipal Governance and Monitoring and Evaluation are supported, aiming to build capacity within local government.
Real Estate
This includes studies in Property Management and Property Valuation, essential for the property market.
Geo Information Science
Programs related to geographic information systems (GIS) and spatial data analysis are supported.
Business Management
General Business Management undergraduate degrees are also listed as approved study fields.
Eligibility Criteria for Applicants
To be considered for the City of Johannesburg Bursary Programme, prospective students must meet a specific set of requirements:
- Citizenship: Applicants must be South African citizens.
- Residency: They must be youth who permanently reside in Johannesburg.
- Study Mode: The bursary is for full-time undergraduate studies only.
- Qualification Level: Applicants must be pursuing an undergraduate qualification.
- Institution: The study must be at an accredited South African tertiary institution.
- Program Duration: The chosen qualification must be at least one year in duration.
- Academic Requirements: Applicants need to meet the specific academic entry requirements for their chosen course.
- Admission: Successful applicants must secure admission to their chosen tertiary institution independently.
Selection for the bursary will be based on academic merit.
Important Note on University or College Admission
It is crucial for applicants to understand that applying for the City of Johannesburg bursary does not guarantee admission to a university or college. Students are responsible for applying directly to their chosen tertiary institutions and securing their own admission. Both processes—applying for admission and applying for the bursary—must be completed separately. Do not delay your university or college application while waiting for the bursary outcome.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must prepare and submit certified copies of the following documents:
- Academic Record: The most recent academic transcript or report.
- Identification: A certified copy of a South African identity document.
- Proof of Residence: Evidence of permanent residence in Johannesburg, such as a Water and Lights statement or Rates and Taxes statement.
- Proof of Income: Parents’ or guardians’ proof of income.
- Death Certificate: If applicable, a death certificate for a deceased parent or guardian.
- Affidavit: An affidavit if the applicant does not have one or both parents.
All uploaded documents must be clear, complete, and easily readable to ensure a smooth application process.
Application Process
Applications for the City of Johannesburg Bursary Programme 2027 are to be submitted exclusively online. The City will only consider applications submitted through its official online portal. Applicants need to complete the official online bursary application form and upload all the necessary supporting documents.
It is advisable for applicants to submit their applications well before the deadline to avoid any last-minute technical issues.
Key Information to Remember
Before submitting your application, please confirm the following:
- Johannesburg Residency: Verify that you are a permanent resident of Johannesburg.
- Supported Fields: Ensure your intended field of study is among those supported by the bursary.
- Separate Admission: Confirm you have applied for admission to an accredited South African tertiary institution.
- Document Preparation: Have all required certified documents ready.
- Income Proof: Ensure proof of household income is available.
- Document Clarity: Check that all uploaded documents are readable.
- Submission Deadline: Submit your application before the closing date of 30 October 2026.
Remember, this bursary is for full-time undergraduate studies and does not cover postgraduate qualifications.
Application Closing Date
The deadline for submitting applications for the City of Johannesburg Bursary Programme 2027 is Friday, 30 October 2026.
Conclusion
The City of Johannesburg Bursary Programme for 2027 presents a significant opportunity for young residents to pursue their undergraduate education. By offering 200 bursaries across a wide range of fields, the City demonstrates its commitment to fostering talent and supporting the academic aspirations of its youth. Meeting the eligibility criteria, preparing all required documents, and applying through the official online portal before the 30 October 2026 deadline are key steps to securing this valuable financial aid. Remember to also secure your admission to a tertiary institution independently, as the bursary application does not guarantee entry.
