South Africa’s chemical and manufacturing sector needs engineers, scientists, and innovators — and CHIETA is funding the next generation.
The CHIETA Industrial Futures Bursary 2026 offers up to R76,000 per year to academically strong students who want to build careers in science, engineering, and industrial technology, but lack financial support.
This bursary is sector-focused, needs-based, and aligned with industries that drive the economy.
What Is the CHIETA Industrial Futures Bursary?
The Chemical Industries Education and Training Authority (CHIETA) supports skills development in high-impact sectors such as:
- Chemicals and petrochemicals
- Manufacturing and processing
- Biotechnology and environmental sciences
This bursary is designed to fund students whose qualifications directly feed into scarce and critical skills within these industries.
What the CHIETA Bursary Covers
CHIETA provides direct academic funding, capped at R76,000 per annum.
Covered Costs
- Tuition Fees
Paid directly to your university or TVET college - Study Materials
Prescribed textbooks and approved academic costs (subject to funds) - Industry Alignment
Funding prioritised for qualifications linked to industrial growth sectors
No cash is paid directly to students.
Who Can Apply? (Strict Eligibility Criteria)
CHIETA applies firm rules to ensure funding goes to high-potential candidates.
You must meet all of the following:
Academic Requirements
- Minimum 75% overall average in Matric
- Must have passed Mathematics and Physical Science
Financial Criteria
- Total household income of R600,000 or less per year
Age & Employment Status
- Aged 16 to 35
- Currently unemployed
Institution
- Accepted or registered at a public university or TVET college for 2026
Citizenship
- South African citizen
Priority Fields of Study
CHIETA funding is reserved for qualifications linked to the chemical and manufacturing value chain.
High-Priority Qualifications
- Chemical Engineering
- Process Engineering
- Analytical or Industrial Chemistry
- Polymer Science
- Biotechnology
- Laboratory Technology
- Manufacturing Technology
- Environmental Science
Fields outside these areas are unlikely to be funded.
Important Dates You Must Not Miss
- Applications Open: 30 January 2026
- Applications Close: 27 February 2026 at 15:00
- Late Applications: Not accepted under any circumstances
The system closes automatically at the deadline.
How to Apply for the CHIETA Bursary 2026
Applications are submitted through the CHIETA Integrated Management System (IMS).
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Register Online
Create an account on the CHIETA IMS Portal.
Step 2: Complete Your Profile
Fill in personal, academic, and financial information accurately.
Step 3: Upload Required Documents
- Certified South African ID
- Matric certificate or statement
- Proof of registration or acceptance for 2026
- Proof of household income
Step 4: Submit Before the Deadline
Finalise and submit before 15:00 on 27 February 2026.
Incomplete applications are rejected automatically.
Application Tip (Important)
CHIETA places strong emphasis on sector commitment.
When completing your “interest in the sector” section:
- Show understanding of the chemical or manufacturing industry
- Explain how your qualification fits into industrial development
- Link your studies to real-world applications
How to Answer Sanlam’s Motivation Questions:
CHIETA wants to see your personality and logic. If you aren’t sure how to structure your answers, follow our step-by-step Motivational Letter Template for 2026 which includes specific tips for CHIETA bursary.
Need Technical Help?
If you experience portal issues, contact CHIETA directly:
- Email: bursary@chieta.org.za
- Telephone: 087 357 6623
Contact support early — delays near closing dates are common.
Funding Alternatives
If you don’t qualify yet, also explore:
- FASSET Bursary 2026: R100k Funding for Top Matric Achievers
- Shoprite Agricultural Sciences Bursary 2026
- NSFAS funding
- Sanlam Actuarial Bursary 2027: Full Funding Plus Career Placement
- IUCMA External Bursary Programme 2026 – Mpumalanga
- SETA Bursary 2026
FAQs – CHIETA bursary
Up to R76,000 per year, paid toward approved academic costs.
Yes. Public universities and TVET colleges are eligible.
No. However, the bursary is aligned with sectors experiencing strong demand.
No. Applicants must be unemployed at the time of application.
