The Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency (IUCMA) invites applications from eligible South African students residing in Mpumalanga for its External Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year.
This bursary supports studies in priority water and environmental science fields, aligned with sustainable and equitable water resource management within the Inkomati-Usuthu Water Management Area (WMA).
Fields of Study Funded
The IUCMA bursary is available for full-time studies in the following qualifications:
- BSc / B Degree in Environmental Science
- BSc Hydrology / Water Resource Management
- BSc Chemistry, Biochemistry or Microbiology
- BSc Geohydrology, Geomorphology or Botany
⚠️ Applications outside these fields will not be considered.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:
- South African citizen residing in Mpumalanga Province (within the IUCMA WMA)
- Certified copy of a valid South African ID
- Matric applicants:
- Minimum 65% average
- Proof of admission or provisional acceptance at a recognised institution
- Currently registered students:
- Certified academic record with a minimum 60% average
- Proof of residence (Local Municipality letter or confirmation signed by a Headman/Chief)
- Proof of household income supported by a SAPS affidavit
- Must not be receiving any other bursary or funding
Preference & Encouragement:
- Female students
- Applicants living with disabilities
What the Bursary Covers
In line with the IUCMA External Bursary Policy, funding includes:
- Registration fees
- Tuition and examination fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Prescribed study material
- Monthly stipend
Successful applicants will be required to sign a bursary contract with IUCMA.
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How to Apply
Application forms are available from:
- IUCMA offices in Nelspruit, Bushbuckridge, and Piet Retief
- Online via the official IUCMA platform
👉 Download the IUCMA External Bursary Application Form 2026
Submission Method
📧 Email applications to:
Bursaries@iucma.co.za
⚠️ Important Notes:
- Hand-delivered or posted applications will NOT be accepted
- Ensure all supporting documents are attached
- Incomplete applications may be disqualified
Closing Date
6 February 2026 at 16:00
If no communication is received within one month after the closing date, applicants should consider their application unsuccessful.
Enquiries
Ms D Malumane / Ms Z Tibane
☎️ Tel: 013 753 9000
Why This Bursary Matters
The IUCMA External Bursary Programme plays a critical role in developing future water and environmental science professionals, while supporting equitable access to education and strengthening sustainable water management in Mpumalanga.
FAQs – IUCMA Bursary 2026
Who can apply for the IUCMA bursary?
South African students residing in Mpumalanga, within the IUCMA Water Management Area, studying approved environmental or water-related qualifications.
Does the bursary cover full costs?
Yes, the bursary covers tuition, accommodation, meals, study materials, and a stipend, subject to the bursary policy.
Can first-year students apply?
Yes. Matriculants with a minimum 65% average and proof of admission or provisional acceptance may apply.
Can I apply if I already have another bursary?
No. Applicants receiving other bursaries or funding are not eligible.
How will I know if my application is successful?
Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted. If no response is received within one month after closing, the application was unsuccessful.
Why This Bursary Matters
The IUCMA External Bursary Programme plays a critical role in developing future water and environmental science professionals, while supporting equitable access to education and strengthening sustainable water management in Mpumalanga.
