The Ekurhuleni Water Care Company (ERWAT) has officially opened applications for its Bursary Programme 2026, offering financial support to students pursuing careers in engineering, chemistry, and biotechnology.
This bursary is more than just funding — it supports skills that are critical to South Africa’s future, including water security, environmental protection, infrastructure development, and sustainable wastewater management. If you’re studying at a public university in Gauteng and want to work in a field with real impact, this opportunity is worth serious attention.
ERWAT Bursary Programme 2026 – Quick Overview
- Bursary Provider: Ekurhuleni Water Care Company (ERWAT)
- Academic Year Funded: 2026
- Fields Funded: Engineering, Chemistry, Biotechnology
- Study Institution: Public universities in Gauteng
- Application Method: Email (no application form)
- Email Address: recruitment@erwat.co.za
- Email Subject Line: Ref: Bursary 2026
- Closing Date: 20 February 2026
- Shortlisting Feedback: By 29 May 2026
Fields of Study Covered
ERWAT bursaries are awarded to students registered for degree qualifications in the following disciplines at Gauteng-based public universities:
- Biotechnology (BSc)
- Chemical Engineering (BSc / BEng)
- Chemistry / Analytical Chemistry (BSc)
- Civil Engineering (BSc / BEng)
- Electrical Engineering (BSc / BEng)
- Mechanical Engineering (BSc / BEng)
These qualifications align directly with ERWAT’s core operations, including water treatment, wastewater management, laboratory analysis, plant operations, infrastructure design, and environmental compliance.
What the ERWAT Bursary Covers
The ERWAT bursary provides comprehensive financial support, allowing students to focus on their studies without unnecessary financial pressure.
Funding Benefits Include:
- Full tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Accommodation
- Monthly stipend for daily living expenses
The stipend helps cover essentials such as transport, meals, data, printing, and personal study needs, making this bursary particularly valuable.
Eligibility Requirements (Must Meet All)
Before applying, ensure you meet every requirement listed below. Missing criteria may result in automatic disqualification.
You must:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be between 18 and 35 years old
- Have completed Matric
- Be studying towards a degree in one of the funded fields
- Have completed your first year of study in 2025
- Be registered at a public university in Gauteng
- Have strong verbal and written communication skills
- Demonstrate attention to detail
- Not be receiving any other bursary funding
Preference Criteria (Important)
While meeting the minimum requirements is essential, ERWAT gives preference to:
- Students with a minimum academic average of 65%
- Students who reside within the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan area
Meeting these preference criteria can significantly improve your chances of being shortlisted.
How to Apply for the ERWAT Bursary 2026
Step 1: Prepare Your Email Application
There is no application form. Applications must be submitted via email.
📧 Email Address: recruitment@erwat.co.za
Step 2: Use the Correct Email Subject Line
Your email subject must read exactly:
Ref: Bursary 2026
Applications without the correct reference may not be considered.
Step 3: Attach All Required Documents
Ensure all documents are clear, complete, and certified where required.
Required Documents:
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Certified copy of your Matric certificate
- Proof of university registration (on official letterhead)
- Full academic record (on official letterhead)
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Proof of residential address
Tip: Save documents as PDFs, ensure they are not blurry or cut off, and name them professionally (e.g. ID-Thabo-Nkosi.pdf).
Closing Date
20 February 2026
Late applications will not be accepted. Apply early to avoid last-minute technical or document issues.
ERWAT Bursary Contact Details
For bursary-related enquiries, contact ERWAT directly:
- Contact Persons: Mr Thembhani Chabalala / Lerato Letsaba
- Telephone: 011 929 7000
When calling, be professional and prepared to provide your full name, field of study, and question.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply if I’m in my first year of study?
No. You must have completed your first year in 2025 to qualify.
2. Does ERWAT accept applications from private universities?
No. Only students registered at public universities in Gauteng may apply.
3. Is the bursary renewable?
Renewal is not guaranteed and is subject to ERWAT’s terms and academic performance.
4. Can I apply if I already have another bursary?
No. Applicants must not be receiving any other bursary funding.
5. When will shortlisted candidates be contacted?
Shortlisting feedback is expected by 29 May 2026.