Dube TradePort Bursaries: Your Guide to Funding in 2027

Are you a student in KwaZulu-Natal looking for financial support for your undergraduate studies in 2027? The Dube TradePort Bursary Programme might be exactly what you need. This bursary aims to help students who meet specific academic and financial criteria pursue their educational goals. Understanding the requirements and application process is key to securing this valuable funding.

Understanding the Dube TradePort Bursary Programme

The Dube TradePort Bursary Programme is an initiative designed to support South African students residing in KwaZulu-Natal. For the 2027 academic year, it offers funding for undergraduate studies. This program is specifically for students who are not eligible for NSFAS (National Student Financial Aid Scheme) funding but still demonstrate a clear financial need. The bursary is open to students entering their first, second, third, or fourth year of undergraduate study.

Key Details for Applicants

To be considered for the Dube TradePort Bursary Programme, applicants must meet several important criteria. The application closing date is August 31, 2026. The bursary is specifically for students living in KwaZulu-Natal. Applicants must be South African citizens between the ages of 18 and 34. A crucial requirement is that applicants must not qualify for NSFAS funding, and they must be able to show proof of financial need.

Approved Fields of Study

The bursary supports undergraduate studies in a select range of fields. These include:

• Agricultural Studies: With a focus on crops and plants.
• Built Environment: Covering areas related to construction and infrastructure.
• Engineering: Various disciplines within engineering are eligible.
• Information Technology: Including computer science and related fields.

It is essential that your chosen qualification falls within one of these designated study areas to be eligible for the bursary.

Eligible Institutions

The Dube TradePort Bursary Programme partners with specific higher education institutions within KwaZulu-Natal. Applicants must be studying or plan to study at one of the following universities:

• Durban University of Technology (DUT)
• Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
• University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
• University of Zululand (UniZulu)

Applications for study at institutions not on this list will not be considered for this bursary.

Minimum Eligibility Requirements

Beyond the general details, specific requirements must be met by all applicants. These include:

• Citizenship: Must be a South African citizen.
• Age: Must be between 18 and 34 years old.
• Residency: Must reside in KwaZulu-Natal.
• Study Level: Pursuing an undergraduate qualification.
• Year of Study: Entering first, second, third, or fourth year.
• Institution: Studying at DUT, MUT, UKZN, or UniZulu.
• Academic Record: Must have a strong academic history.
• Financial Status: Must not qualify for NSFAS and must demonstrate financial need.

The Selection Process

The selection of bursary recipients involves a careful review of several factors. These include the applicant’s academic performance, the financial situation of their parents or guardians, and the overall bursary budget available. Shortlisted candidates can expect to be contacted approximately four weeks after the application closing date. If you do not hear back within this timeframe, it is advisable to assume your application was not successful.

Required Application Documents

To complete your application, you will need to submit clear copies of several supporting documents. These typically include:

• A certified copy of your ID document.
• Your latest Matric results if you are currently in Matric, or your Matric certificate and full tertiary academic record if you have already studied.
• Proof of registration at one of the approved institutions.
• A university tuition fee statement.
• Your course curriculum, showing the duration of the program and the number of modules.
• Proof of income for your parent or guardian, such as recent payslips, or an affidavit if they are unemployed.
• A death certificate if a parent or guardian is deceased.
• A motivation letter explaining why you deserve the bursary and detailing your circumstances.

Ensure all compulsory documents are uploaded correctly with your online application.

How to Apply

Applications for the Dube TradePort Bursary Programme must be submitted online through the SA Youth.Mobi platform. You will need to complete the online application form and upload all the required supporting documents before the closing date of August 31, 2026. Late applications will not be accepted.

Conclusion

The Dube TradePort Bursary Programme offers a valuable opportunity for eligible students in KwaZulu-Natal to receive financial assistance for their undergraduate studies in 2027. By carefully reviewing the eligibility criteria, understanding the approved fields of study and institutions, and preparing all necessary documents, you can strengthen your application. Remember to submit your application online via SA Youth.Mobi before the August 31, 2026 deadline.

Frequently Asked Questions