merSETA Bursary 2025-2026

About merSETA

The Manufacturing, Engineering and Related Services Sector Education and Training Authority (merSETA) is one of the 21 Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs) in South Africa. It primarily focuses on facilitating skill development within the sectors of Engineering, Manufacturing, and related fields. The overarching goal of merSETA, like other SETAs, is to enhance the skills of the South African workforce to improve productivity and employability in these vital sectors.

merSETA Bursary Programme

The merSETA bursary programme is an annual initiative designed to support students pursuing studies in the Engineering and Science sectors, particularly those interested in a career within one of the five merSETA subsectors: Metals and Engineering; Auto Manufacturing; Plastics Industries; Retail motor and component manufacturing; and New tyre manufacturing.

Fields Covered

Bursaries are awarded for studies in the following fields:

For University of Technology students (National Diploma courses):

• Chemical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering (light and heavy current & electronics)
• Metallurgy & Materials Engineering
• Industrial Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering (including Mechatronics)
• Polymer Technology
• Production and Operations Management

For University students (undergraduate BSc programmes):

• Chemical Engineering
• Electrical Engineering (light and heavy current and electronic)
• Industrial Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering (including Mechatronics)
• Metallurgy and Materials Engineering

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants for the merSETA Bursary must:

• Be South African citizens.
• Be unemployed and aiming to work within the manufacturing, engineering and related service sector, or be employed by a company registered with merSETA.
• Possess a Matric certificate (or equivalent) OR a post-Matric (or equivalent qualification).
• Meet the minimum admission requirements of the tertiary institution.
• Be studying or intend to study one of the specified Degree or Diploma qualifications at a recognized University or University of Technology in South Africa.

Application Process

Applications for the merSETA Bursary should be submitted directly to the bursary department of the student’s university. Interested candidates should contact their University’s bursary department to request the Merseta bursary application form.

Supporting Documentation

Required documents typically include:

• Certified copy of the ID document.
• Certified copy of the Matric certificate or equivalent.
• Proof of application/registration at a South African University or University of Technology.
• Latest tertiary academic report (if currently studying).
• Proof of any other sources of study funding.

Closing Dates

• 30 June for the first semester.
• 30 September for the second semester.

Contact Information

For queries related to the merSETA Bursary Programme, contact merSETA directly:

• Telephone: 010 219 3000 or 086 163 7738 (Call Centre)
• Email: bursaries@merseta.org.za
• Postal Address: merSETA, PO Box 61826, Marshalltown, 2107

The merSETA Bursary Programme is a significant opportunity for students pursuing careers in engineering and science-related fields, offering financial support and contributing to the development of skilled professionals in these essential sectors.