Hey future engineers, IT whizzes, and admin pros! 👋 Ready to supercharge your studies and build a brighter future? The incredible SANRAL Bursary for the 2026 academic year could be exactly what you need! SANRAL, the South African National Roads Agency, isn’t just about constructing and maintaining our awesome road network; they’re also passionate about investing in South Africa’s brightest young talent.
If you’re a South African student dreaming of a degree but worried about funding, keep reading! This bursary is designed to support ambitious students like you, helping to cover those hefty university costs.
The SANRAL Bursary programme is a fantastic opportunity for students looking to pursue specific qualifications at a public tertiary institution in South Africa. They’re looking for individuals who can contribute to critical fields essential for the country’s development. This isn’t just about getting a degree; it’s about joining an organisation that makes a real difference!
SANRAL offers funding for a range of exciting fields, including:
- Civil Engineering (BSc/ BEng)
- Computer Science or Information Systems
- Human Resources Management
- Public Procurement or Supply Chain Management
Who Can Apply?
So, do you fit the bill? SANRAL is on the lookout for dynamic South African citizens who meet these criteria:
- You MUST be a South African citizen.
- You need to be under 35 years old.
- You must either be currently in Matric or have already completed Matric.
- You should be planning to start your first year of undergraduate studies in 2026.
- You must be studying or accepted to study full-time for one of the qualifications listed above, at a recognised and accredited public tertiary institution in South Africa (sorry, no private institutions or distance learning here!).
- You need to meet the academic requirements for your chosen qualification. For current Matric students, that means a minimum overall average of 70%.
- Proving financial need is important.
- You must NOT be receiving any other bursary funding.
- Students with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply!
What Does It Cover?
Good news! The SANRAL Bursary is designed to ease your financial burden, offering either full or partial coverage depending on your specific needs:
- Full Bursary: This covers everything – registration fees, tuition fees, study materials and equipment, accommodation, meals, a living allowance, AND access to a wellness plan. Talk about comprehensive!
- Partial Bursary: This still offers significant help, covering registration fees, tuition fees, accommodation, and access to the wellness plan.
Selection is based primarily on your academic performance and financial need, as determined by SANRAL’s Bursary Policy. If you’re shortlisted, get ready for an interview! Successful candidates will receive their award letters, but if you don’t hear back by 31 January 2026, it’s best to consider your application unsuccessful.
How to Apply?
Ready to jump in? Applying for the SANRAL Bursary is straightforward:
- Head over to the official SANRAL application portal: SANRAL Bursary Application 2026
- Make sure you gather ALL the required supporting documents. Submitting incomplete applications is a no-go!
Here’s what you’ll need:
- A certified copy of your ID document or birth certificate.
- If you’re currently in Matric, certified copies of your Term 1 and 2 results.
- Proof of tertiary registration (a certified copy is needed).
- A compelling motivational letter (one page) explaining who you are and why you deserve this bursary. Need help? Check out our tips on how to write a bursary motivational letter.
- Certified copies of your parents’ or guardians’ ID documents.
- Certified copies of your parents’ or guardians’ proof of income (recent payslips if employed, or an affidavit if unemployed/self-employed – all not older than 3 months).
- Proof of residence for your parents or guardians (a water and electricity bill from the local council works).
Remember, the closing date for applications is 30 September 2025. Don’t wait until the last minute – get your application in before this date to ensure it’s considered!
If this sounds like the perfect bursary to kickstart your career, don’t hesitate — apply now and take the first step towards a funded future! While you’re at it, explore even more incredible bursary opportunities right here on Bursaries Room!
