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The Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) bursary is a financial aid program for South African students pursuing careers in the mining and minerals sector. It covers tuition, accommodation, meals, and books for studies at universities, universities of technology, or TVET colleges, typically focusing on engineering, science, and specialized technical fields.
Quick Summary of MQA Bursary
| Bursary Name | MQA Bursary |
|---|---|
| Company / Organisation | Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) |
| Fields Covered | Mining, Engineering, Science, TVET Trades |
| Who Can Apply | South African students (employed & unemployed) |
| Closing Date | 31 July 2025 |
| How to Apply | Online application |
Table of Contents
- Bursary Overview
- Who the Bursary is For
- Fields of Study Covered
- What the Bursary Covers
- Eligibility Requirements
- Required Documents
- Step-by-Step How to Apply
- Closing Date
- Selection Process
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Important Notes & Warnings
- Related Searches Section
MQA Bursary Overview
The MQA Bursary South Africa is offered by the Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA), a Sector Education and Training Authority responsible for skills development in the mining and minerals sector.
The bursary program aims to increase the number of qualified professionals in mining-related fields and support students in pursuing careers in this critical sector.
MQA offers two types of bursaries:
- Unemployed bursaries (for students not currently employed)
- Employed bursaries (for individuals already working in the mining sector)
Who the MQA Bursary is For
This bursary is intended for:
- South African citizens
- Matric learners or current tertiary students
- Unemployed youth or employed individuals in the mining sector
- Students studying or intending to study mining-related fields
- Students with strong academic performance
Preference may be given to:
- Historically Disadvantaged Individuals (HDI)
- Female students
- Students with disabilities
- Students from rural communities
Fields of Study Covered
The bursary supports studies in the following fields:
University / University of Technology:
- Mining Engineering
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Geology
- Analytical Chemistry
- Environmental Science
- Occupational Health & Safety
- Mine Surveying
TVET Colleges (Artisan Fields):
- Boilermaker
- Electrician
- Millwright
- Fitter and Turner
- Plumber
- Welder
- Diesel Mechanic
- Mechatronics
What the MQA Bursary Covers
The MQA bursary provides comprehensive financial support, including:
Unemployed Bursary:
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation allowance
- Meals allowance
- Book allowance
- Monthly stipend
- Travel costs (where applicable)
Employed Bursary:
- Tuition fees
- Book allowance
The bursary is designed to fully support students throughout their studies.
Eligibility Requirements
Unemployed Applicants:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be in Matric or have completed Matric
- Must be studying or intend to study an undergraduate qualification
- Must be accepted at a public university, university of technology, or TVET college
- Must be unemployed
- Must have household income below R600 000 per year
- Must demonstrate financial need
Employed Applicants:
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be employed in the mining sector
- Must be studying or intend to study a mining-related qualification
- Must NOT be on another MQA-funded programme
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
- Certified copy of ID document
- Certified copy of Matric results or certificate
- Academic transcripts (if studying)
- Proof of acceptance at a tertiary institution
- Parents/guardians ID documents
- Proof of household income
Step-by-Step How to Apply
- Visit the MQA bursary application portal
- Complete the online application form
- Prepare all required supporting documents
- Upload certified copies of documents
- Submit your application before the closing date
- Wait for feedback from the bursary provider
Closing Date
31 July 2025
Selection Process
- Applications are reviewed based on academic performance and financial need
- Priority given to students in scarce skills fields
- Shortlisted candidates are contacted before the academic year
- If no feedback is received, consider the application unsuccessful
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who can apply for the MQA Bursary?
South African students and workers in the mining sector.
2. What fields are funded?
Mining, engineering, science, and artisan trades.
3. What does the bursary cover?
Full tuition, accommodation, meals, books, and allowances.
4. Is financial need required?
Yes, especially for unemployed bursaries.
5. How do I apply?
Through the official online MQA application portal.
Important Notes & Warnings
- Applications close on 31 July 2025
- Only undergraduate qualifications are funded (for unemployed bursary)
- Must meet income threshold requirements
- Ensure all documents are complete and certified
- Incomplete or late applications will be disqualified
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- Do not submit original documents
Related Searches Section
- Mining bursaries South Africa
- Engineering bursaries South Africa 2026
- SETA bursaries South Africa
- Bursaries open now 2026https://bursariesopennow.co.za/bursaries-closing-soon/