Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) Bursary Programme for 2026

South Africa’s mining sector remains a cornerstone of the national economy, driving growth and offering diverse career opportunities. However, the mining industry also requires a highly skilled and educated workforce to thrive in a competitive and ever-evolving global market. In response to this need, the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) has continued its long-standing commitment to nurturing talent through the MQA Bursary Programme, which is once again open for applications for the 2026 academic year.

What is the MQA Bursary Programme?

The MQA Bursary Programme is a strategic initiative designed to support financially needy and academically deserving students who wish to pursue careers within the mining and minerals sector. The programme funds full-time studies at South African public institutions and covers disciplines that are critical to the sustainability and advancement of the mining industry.

Since its inception, the MQA bursary has empowered thousands of young South Africans to complete qualifications in core mining-related fields. This is not just a financial aid programme—it’s a deliberate investment in the sector’s future.

FIELDS OF STUDY FUNDED BY MQA:

Qualifications funded at universities and universities of technology:

• Metallurgical Engineering
• Analytical Chemistry
• Jewellery Design and Manufacturing
• Electro-Mechanical Engineering
• Geology
• Industrial Engineering
• Mining Engineering
• Occupational Health and Safety
• Mechanical Engineering
• Occupational Hygiene
• Mine Surveying
• Occupational Medicine
• Electrical Engineering
• Operations Management
• Chemical Engineering
• Quality Management
• Environmental Health and Management
• Environmental Science

Qualifications funded at TVET colleges:

• Boilermaker
• Fitting (including Machinery)
• Motor Mechanic (Diesel)
• Instrumentation Mechanic
• Electrician
• Millwright
• Fitter and Turner
• Rigger Ropesman
• Plumber
• Carpenter and Joiner
• Welder
• Pipe Fitter
• Mechatronics
• Mechanic including automotive mechanic
• Mechanical Fitter
• Bricklayer

This selection ensures that the mining sector benefits from a holistic and sustainable influx of professionals across the value chain—from extraction to environmental management.

WHO CAN APPLY?

The MQA bursary is aimed at Grade 12 learners, unemployed youth, and current students who are:

• South African citizens
• Intending to study or already studying full-time at a public university or university of technology
• Pursuing or intending to pursue one of the MQA-funded qualifications
• Historically Disadvantaged Individuals (HDI).
• Financially needy applicants – with a combined household income of not more than R600 000 per annum – household income will be verified by MQA, and misrepresentation of household income will disqualify the application.
• Female applicants.
• Applicants with a disability;
• Applicants living in rural communities.
• Applicants who have applied to study at their local tertiary institutions.
• Candidates with a strong academic record.
• Candidate who are studying occupations in line with MQA Sectoral Priority Occupations Interventions (SPOI) list.

Preference is given to applicants from rural and mining communities, female students, and people with disabilities in alignment with national transformation objectives.

WHAT THE BURSARY COVERS:

Successful applicants will receive comprehensive financial support, which may include:

• Full tuition fees
• Accommodation and meals
• Prescribed textbooks and study materials
• A monthly stipend for living expenses
• Travel costs (where applicable)

This level of support ensures that students can focus on their studies without the burden of financial stress.

HOW TO APPLY FOR 2026

Applicants are encouraged to:

Submit all required documents, including:

• Certified ID copy
• Certified copies of academic results
• Proof of household income
• Proof of university acceptance or provisional acceptance

APPLY FOR THE MINING QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY (MQA) BURSARY PROGRAMME FOR 2026 HERE

Late or incomplete applications will not be considered, so early preparation is essential.

The MQA Bursary Programme continues to play a vital role in bridging the skills gap in South Africa’s mining sector. It not only opens doors for individual students but also contributes meaningfully to the economic transformation of South Africa. If you’re passionate about a future in mining and need financial support, the 2026 MQA Bursary could be your launchpad.

CLOSING DATE: 31 JULY 2025

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