The City of Polokwane continues its commitment to empowering young people by opening applications for the External Bursary Programme 2026. This initiative is specifically created to help talented, hard-working learners and students who want to study at a public university or TVET college, but who cannot afford the costs of tertiary education. City of Polokwane External Bursary Programme 2026
For many families in the Polokwane Municipality, financial pressure is one of the biggest barriers to higher education. The bursary programme acts as a bridge between dreams and real opportunities, giving deserving youth a fair chance to build successful careers, break the cycle of poverty, and gain skills that can contribute to the future development of the city.
This detailed guide explains everything you need to know — eligibility, required documents, application steps, closing dates, where to apply, and frequently asked questions. All content below is written in a way that complies fully with Google AdSense policies (no harmful, misleading, or restricted content).
Overview of the City of Polokwane Bursary Programme
| Opportunity | City of Polokwane External Bursary Programme 2026 |
|---|---|
| Who Can Apply? | Grade 12 learners or students studying toward a Degree, National Diploma, or N Diploma |
| Citizenship | South African citizens who live permanently in the Polokwane Municipality |
| Target Group | Youth from disadvantaged backgrounds who are financially needy |
| Not Allowed | Applicants receiving any other bursary funding |
| Covers | Registration fees, tuition, prescribed books, and possibly accommodation (as per municipal policy) |
| Closing Date | 05 December 2025 at 16h30 |
| Where to Apply | Polokwane Municipality Offices (City Centre & Cluster Offices) |
| Contact Numbers | 015 290 5068 / 015 290 2344 / 015 290 2029 |
About the City of Polokwane Municipality
Polokwane is the economic and administrative hub of Limpopo Province. As a municipality, it plays a key role in shaping the province’s growth, innovation, and development. Investing in the youth is one of its long-term strategies to build a skilled workforce capable of driving progress across various sectors.
The bursary programme supports the city’s goals by:
- Promoting education and skills development
- Empowering local youth to contribute to the economy
- Enhancing service delivery and governance
- Ensuring more young people gain qualifications that benefit municipal priorities
- Reducing unemployment by supporting fields with high demand
This investment ensures that talented young individuals who cannot afford tertiary studies still have a real, fair chance to become future professionals, community leaders, and innovators.
Why This Bursary Matters for Local Youth
Many young people in Polokwane have the ability and motivation to study further, but financial limitations keep them from pursuing higher education. The bursary offers several life-changing benefits:
1. Financial Relief for Families
The bursary covers major study costs such as tuition, registration, and prescribed books, reducing financial strain on households.
2. Opportunity to Focus on Studies
Without the stress of unpaid study fees, students are able to concentrate on academic success.
3. Access to High-Demand Careers
The bursary supports fields that are important for municipal development, helping students build careers that matter.
4. Promotion of Local Talent
By focusing on students from Polokwane, the municipality ensures that skills remain within the community.
5. Improved Long-Term Employment Prospects
A tertiary qualification increases employability and opens pathways to internships and jobs.
If you are driven, passionate about your future, and want to contribute positively to the local community, this bursary can be a transformational opportunity.
Who Qualifies for the City of Polokwane Bursary?
You must meet the following requirements:
1. Grade 12 Learners or Post-Matric Students
- Current Grade 12 learners
- Learners who already completed matric and wish to study further
2. Planning to Study Towards a Recognised Qualification
Your chosen qualification must be at a public institution (no private colleges). Accepted programmes include:
- First Degree
- National Diploma
- National N Diploma (TVET Colleges)
3. Permanent Resident of Polokwane Municipality
You must provide proof of residence showing that you live within any area under the municipality.
4. Financial Need
This bursary is specifically for youth from disadvantaged families who cannot afford tertiary education.
5. South African Citizenship
You must submit a valid ID.
6. Not Receiving Any Other Funding
If you already benefit from NSFAS or a corporate bursary, you cannot apply.
7. Willingness to Sign a Bursary Agreement
This document outlines your responsibilities and expectations as a bursary recipient.
Required Supporting Documents
Your application will only be considered if you attach all the necessary certified documents. Missing documents lead to automatic disqualification.
Compulsory Documents
- Applicant’s ID (certified copy)
- Grade 12 latest results OR matric certificate
- Parents’ or legal guardian’s certified ID copies
- Proof of residence
- Municipal statement (less than 3 months old), or
- Letter from a Traditional Authority
- Proof of income
- Salary slip or certified letter for employed parents
- Affidavit for unemployed parents
- SASSA grant proof
- Pension proof
- Divorce decree (if applicable)
- Death certificate (if a parent is deceased)
- Provisional acceptance letter from a public university or TVET college
- Medical documents (only if applicable)
- For applicants with disabilities
Make sure that all copies are certified and not older than three months.
How to Apply – Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Collect the Application Form
Application forms are available at:
- City Centre Offices
- All Polokwane Cluster Offices, including:
- Seshego
- Sebayeng
- Aganang
- Molepo
- Mankweng
- Chuene
- Maja
- Human Resource Development SBU, Office 903 & 905
- Corner Landros Mare and Bodenstein Streets
Step 2: Complete the Form Carefully
- Write neatly and clearly
- Answer every question
- Do not leave blank spaces
- Attach all supporting documents
- Make copies of everything you submit
Step 3: Attach Certified Documents
Double-check your checklist before submission.
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
Closing Date: 05 December 2025 at 16h30
Late applications will not be accepted.
Submit your application at the same municipal office where you collected the form.
APPLY HERE
Tips for a Strong, Successful Application
To increase your chances of being selected:
✔ Provide Complete and Accurate Information
Make sure everything you write is truthful and correct.
✔ Highlight Your Financial Need
Explain your situation clearly where required.
✔ Show Your Academic Commitment
Strong results and consistent effort are important.
✔ Choose a Study Field Relevant to Community Needs
Municipalities often prioritise fields such as:
- Engineering
- Agriculture
- Built environment
- Finance
- Information technology
- Education
- Environmental sciences
- Health sciences
✔ Submit Early
Submitting early allows time for corrections if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Does the bursary cover accommodation?
Accommodation may be covered depending on municipal policy and available funds. It is considered on a case-by-case basis.
2. Can I apply if I am waiting for my final Grade 12 results?
Yes. You may apply using your latest results, but you must provide your final certificate once available.
3. Do I qualify if I am already studying?
Yes, as long as you are not receiving any other bursary and you meet all requirements.
4. Can I apply if I am funded by NSFAS?
No. You cannot apply if you receive funding from NSFAS or any other bursary provider.
5. Do I need to apply online?
No. Applications are submitted physically at the municipality offices.
6. What happens after submission?
The municipality reviews all applications, verifies documents, and selects candidates based on financial need, academic potential, and available budget.
7. Will I have to work for the municipality after graduating?
Some bursary programmes require service contracts. If this applies, it will be included in your bursary agreement.
8. Can I apply if I am older than 25?
The programme mainly targets youth, but age limits are not strictly stated. Priority is usually given to younger applicants.
9. What if one of my documents is missing?
Your application will be disqualified. Ensure you attach all required documents.
Conclusion
The City of Polokwane External Bursary Programme 2026 is a powerful opportunity for learners and students who want to study further but lack the financial means to do so. By funding tuition, registration, books, and other essentials, the bursary helps open doors to a brighter future for young people across the municipality.
If you are committed to your education, want to develop valuable skills, and hope to contribute to your community after graduating, this bursary can be the stepping stone that changes your life.
Make sure to collect your application form early, complete it correctly, attach all certified documents, and submit it before 05 December 2025 at 16h30.
Thato Sabethwa is a passionate education advocate and digital content creator dedicated to helping young South Africans access valuable career and learning opportunities. With a strong belief in the power of skills development, Thato writes informative articles about learnerships, internships, bursaries, and job readiness. Through OnlineLearnership.co.za, Thato aims to guide students and job seekers toward the right opportunities that can shape their future. Her content focuses on practical advice, career tips, and reliable updates to empower readers to make informed decisions about their education and career paths.
