If you are a high-performing matriculant, passionate about mathematics, science, technology, or engineering, and you already have a place at a South African university for 2026, then the East London Industrial Development Zone (ELIDZ) is calling on you to apply.
- Check if you Qualify for this Bursary before you Apply
- Track your Daily Career Score Here
- Create and Download your CV for this Bursary Application here
- Create a Motivational Letter for this Bursary Application here
- Check if you also Qualify for NSFAS Funding here
- Check if you Qualify for TVET College Enrolment here
- View more 2026 Bursaries here
With the closing date set for 30 January 2026, this bursary is designed to support academically strong students who are ready to step into scarce-skills careers and contribute to South Africa’s industrial and economic growth.
Quick Overview
Bursary Provider: East London Industrial Development Zone
Study Year Funded: 2026
Closing Date: 30 January 2026
Target Province: Eastern Cape
Minimum Matric Average: 60%
Mathematics Requirement: 60%+ (Pure Mathematics, not Mathematical Literacy)
Fields Supported: Mathematics, Science, Technology-related undergraduate qualifications
Institution Requirement: Must be accepted at a South African university for 2026
If you meet all the above criteria, you qualify to apply.
Who Should Apply?
To qualify for the ELIDZ Bursary 2026, you must answer yes to all of the following:
- Are you from the Eastern Cape?
This bursary prioritises learners from the Eastern Cape province.
- Have you passed matric with an average of 60% or higher?
Your overall Grade 12 results matter. Strong academic performance is essential.
- Did you obtain 60% or more for Mathematics (Pure Maths)?
Mathematical Literacy does not qualify. This requirement ensures readiness for STEM-based degrees.
- Do you want to study a Mathematics, Science, or Technology-related undergraduate qualification?
Examples may include:
- Engineering
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Data Science
- Applied Sciences
- Technology-focused degrees
- Have you already been accepted at a South African university for 2026?
You must have a confirmed admission offer. Applications without proof of acceptance are unlikely to be considered.
If you meet all these conditions, you are eligible to apply.
What Does the ELIDZ Bursary Cover?
Bursaries of this nature generally assist with:
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed learning materials
- Academic support costs
Final funding decisions and covered expenses are determined by ELIDZ and may vary based on budget availability and individual circumstances.
Always rely on the official application portal for confirmed funding details.
How to Apply
The application process is completed online.
Before You Apply, Prepare the Following:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified matric certificate or final results
- Proof of university acceptance for 2026
- Academic transcripts (if applicable)
- Any additional documents requested on the portal
Apply early. Do not wait until the final days, as online systems can become congested close to closing dates.
APPLY FOR THE EAST LONDON IDZ BURSARY PROGRAMME FOR 2026 HERE
Why ELIDZ Focuses on Maths, Science, and Technology
Industries within development zones require technical competence, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills. These are built through mathematics- and science-based education.
By funding students in these disciplines, ELIDZ ensures:
- Better graduate employability
- Reduced skills shortages
- Stronger local industrial ecosystems
- Higher long-term economic returns
This approach benefits not only the student but the entire region.
How Edupstairs Helps You Prepare
At Edupstairs, we don’t just post opportunities—we help you win them.
Recommended Tools:
- Edupstairs Internship / Learnership Eligibility Checker
- Edupstairs Financial Literacy Mini-School
- Grow your Confidence – 30-day Challenge
- SA Bursary Probability Checker
- Edupstairs Simple CV Builder Tool
- Edupstairs AI Cover Letter Generator Tool
- Edupstairs Learnership Application Checklist Tool
- Edupstairs Internship Application Checklist Tool
- Edupstairs Interview Q & A Coach Tool
- SA Youth Apprenticeship Readiness Quiz
- Edupstairs Learnership Stipend Calculator Tool
- NSFAS Funding Eligibility Checker Tool
- Edupstairs Qualification-to-Career Pathways Tool
- South African Salary Explorer Tool
- TVET College Enrolment Eligibility Checker Tool
- Edupstairs Career Personality Tool
- Daily Career Score Tracker
- Learnership and Internship Readiness Quiz
Edupstairs Advice
At Edupstairs, we always encourage students to treat bursary applications like job applications:
- Read every requirement carefully
- Upload clear, certified documents
- Use a professional email address
- Keep proof of submission
- Monitor your email regularly
Remember, bursaries are competitive. Preparation and accuracy can make the difference between acceptance and disappointment.
If you qualify, do not hesitate. Opportunities like this do not stay open forever.
Career Growth Path After This Bursary
An ELIDZ bursary can open doors to long-term professional pathways such as:
- Graduate engineer or technologist
- Data analyst or systems developer
- Industrial process specialist
- Research and development roles
- Project management in manufacturing or energy sectors
Many bursary recipients also gain access to:
- Workplace exposure
- Industry networks
- Internship and graduate opportunities
This is how education turns into employment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- Is this bursary open to students outside the Eastern Cape?
The programme prioritises Eastern Cape applicants. Other provinces are unlikely to be considered.
- Can I apply if I am still waiting for university acceptance?
No. You must already be accepted at a South African university for 2026.
- Does Mathematical Literacy qualify?
No. Only Pure Mathematics with at least 60% is accepted.
- Is NSFAS required to apply?
The advert does not state that NSFAS is compulsory, but students are encouraged to explore all funding options.
- What happens if I apply late?
Late applications risk exclusion. Always apply well before the closing date.
CLOSING DATE: 30 JANUARY 2026
You can also:
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- Visit the Edupstairs blog for daily updates
Application Outcome Tracker (anonymous)
No names collected. This helps future applicants understand real-world timelines.
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Disclaimers
- Edupstairs is not the bursary provider and does not influence selection outcomes.
- All decisions rest with the East London Industrial Development Zone.
- Always verify information on the official ELIDZ portal.
- Beware of scams. ELIDZ does not charge application fees.
EDUPSTAIRS IS A REGISTERED NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION NPO No: 232 – 182, PUBLIC BENEFIT ORGANISATION (PBO): 930066984. EDUPSTAIRS DOES NOT, IN ANY WAY OR FORM, SOLICIT MONEY OR CV’S FROM PEOPLE FOR JOBS. PLEASE BE AWARE OF PHONY JOB POSTINGS AND RECRUITMENT FRAUD. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT OUR SCAM/FRAUD ALERT PAGE HERE