Vulamathuba Empumelelo Bursary South Africa

The Vulamathuba Empumelelo Bursary is an excellent opportunity for students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds in the Cape Town Metro Region. This bursary aims to support undergraduate studies in fields identified as scarce or critical skills, enabling students to pursue higher education while receiving financial and mentoring support.

Fields of Study Covered

The bursary is available to students undertaking undergraduate studies in areas declared as scarce or critical skills by the government. Only students residing within the City of Cape Town Metro Region are eligible to apply.

What the Bursary Covers & Programme Benefits

The bursary provides partial financial support covering:

• Registration fees
• Tuition fees (up to R40,000)
• Prescribed materials (up to R5,000)
• Examination fees, where applicable

Recipients are selected based on academic potential and financial need and must sign an agreement with Vulamathuba Empumelelo. Students also receive quarterly mentoring to help them succeed academically.

Please note: The bursary does not cover electronic devices, stationery, outstanding study loans, or additional tuition expenses.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Be a South African citizen or hold a Permanent Residency Permit/Work Visa
• Be a Communicare tenant or from a previously marginalized community
• Reside within the City of Cape Town Metro Region
• Be aged 19–50 years
• Have completed Matric
• Be studying or intend to study part-time or full-time toward an undergraduate qualification in a scarce or critical skills field
• Be enrolled at a public higher education institution in South Africa (TVET College or University)
• Demonstrate financial need with a household income of not more than R400,000 per annum
• Show strong academic potential and personal qualities such as enthusiasm, positive attitude, teamwork, communication, problem-solving, creativity, and willingness to volunteer

Preference is given to students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds and Communicare tenants in good standing. Students with or without disabilities may apply.

Application Process

To apply for the bursary, follow these steps:

1. Download and complete the Vulamathuba Empumelelo Bursary Application Form 2026.
2. Complete the online application form.
3. Submit the completed application along with all required documents via email to [email protected].

Required Documents

Applicants must provide clear, certified copies (certified within the last 6 months) of the following:

• Completed application form
• ID or passport (and Permanent Residency Permit/Work Visa if applicable)
• Matric certificate and most recent academic results
• Proof of application/registration for 2026 on institution letterhead
• Proof of residence
• ID/passport/birth certificates of all household members
• 3 months of recent bank statements and proof of income for all household members
• Legal documents if applicable (marriage certificate, divorce order, death certificate, affidavits)
• Motivational essay (minimum 250 words)

Incomplete submissions may lead to disqualification.

Final Thoughts

The Vulamathuba Empumelelo Bursary provides an invaluable opportunity for students from economically disadvantaged communities in Cape Town to pursue scarce and critical skills studies. With financial support, mentorship, and a structured application process, this bursary enables students to focus on their education and achieve academic success.