The closing date has passed. Please check our latest open bursaries and closing soon opportunities below.
The TCTA Bursary, part of Project Naledi, provides full-cost tertiary funding to disadvantaged South African students pursuing engineering, environmental, or financial studies. It covers tuition, accommodation, meals, and stipends for top-performing students.
ABOUT THE BURSARY PROVIDER – TCTA
Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA), situated in Centurion, is a state-owned entity for bulk water supply development. The company’s goal is to be a market leader for the supply of sustainable water and to facilitate water security (by the means of planning, financing and implementing the process of raw water infrastructure) in their region.
The company was first established in order to become a purpose vehicle to carry out the Lesotho Highlands Water Project. Services carried out by the company include: Project Design, Project Management, Treasury Management, Knowledge Management, Debt Management, Bulk raw water infrastructure implementation, Structuring and raising Project Finance.
Some of TCTA’s flagship projects include: the Lesotho Highlands Water Project; the Metsi Bophelo Borehole Project; the Vaal River Eastern Subsystem; the Olifants River Water Resources Development Project; Berg Water Project in Franschhoek; the Komati Water Scheme Augmentation Project; the Mooi-Mgeni Transfer Scheme; the Mokolo Dam and the Acid Mine Drainage.
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Quick Summary of TCTA Bursary
| Bursary Name | TCTA Bursary |
|---|---|
| Company / Organisation | Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA) |
| Fields Covered | BCom (Financial Management / Treasury & Investment / Economics), Auditing (Degree or BTech), Environmental Science / Environmental Management / Environmental Law (BSc or BTech) |
| Who Can Apply | South African citizens under 35 from previously disadvantaged backgrounds (first & second year students or Matriculants) |
| Closing Date | 31 January 2025 (for 2025 studies) – Not officially specified for 2026 |
| How to Apply | Email completed application form + academic record to bursaries@tcta.co.za |
- 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 (if available)
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Important Notes & Warnings
- Related Searches Section
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TCTA Bursary Overview
The TCTA Bursary South Africa, also known as Project Naledi, is offered by the Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA). TCTA is a state-owned entity responsible for financing and building major bulk raw water infrastructure projects across South Africa. Their work includes big projects like the Lesotho Highlands Water Project, Vaal River schemes and many others that bring clean water to millions of people.
TCTA started Project Naledi in 2005 to help young people from previously disadvantaged backgrounds, especially those in rural areas, get into higher education and then jobs in the water sector. The bursary and internship scheme together aim to develop skills that South Africa desperately needs for water security, environmental protection and good financial management of big projects.
South Africa faces big challenges with water supply, climate change and sustainable development. That is why TCTA invests in students who will one day help manage water resources, protect the environment and handle the money side of huge infrastructure projects. The bursary gives full financial support so students can focus on their studies without worrying about fees or living costs.https://www.tcta.co.za/careers/internsbursaries/
Even though applications for the 2025 academic year have closed, the TCTA Bursary remains a valuable opportunity for future students. Many young South Africans have already used this funding to study at universities and universities of technology. If you are interested in commerce, auditing or environmental fields and come from a disadvantaged background, this could be the support you need to build a career in the water and infrastructure sector.
Keep checking Bursaries Open Now for the next cycle. TCTA’s work is vital for the country’s future, and bursaries like this help make sure talented young people get the chance to contribute. (Word count so far in section: ~310)
Internal link: See more Government Bursaries for Students or explore our Environmental Bursaries South Africa category.
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Who the TCTA Bursary is For
This bursary is designed for South African citizens from previously disadvantaged backgrounds who need financial help to study further. It targets young people under the age of 35 who are either in Matric (planning to study) or already in their first or second year of tertiary studies.
TCTA focuses on helping students who might not otherwise afford university or technikon because of their family situation. If you come from a rural area, township or low-income household and want to build a career in water infrastructure, finance or environmental management, this bursary was created for you.
The programme is part of TCTA’s commitment to skills development and transformation in the water sector. Successful students often get the chance to do internships at TCTA, which can lead to full-time employment after graduation. It is perfect for motivated students who want to give back to South Africa by working on projects that improve water access for everyone.
Internal link: Browse more opportunities on our Open Bursaries page or Closing Soon section.
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Fields of Study Covered by TCTA Bursary
The TCTA Bursary South Africa supports specific qualifications that are directly linked to TCTA’s work in water infrastructure, finance and environmental protection. The fields covered are:
- Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Financial Management, Treasury & Investment, or Economics
- Degree or BTech in Auditing
- BSc or BTech in Environmental Science, Environmental Management, or Environmental Law
These are full-time undergraduate programmes at recognised and accredited South African universities, universities of technology or TVET colleges.
Why these fields? TCTA needs skilled people who can manage large budgets, audit projects, ensure environmental laws are followed and plan sustainable water solutions. By funding these studies, TCTA is building the next generation of professionals who will keep South Africa’s water projects running smoothly and legally.
If you are passionate about finance, auditing or the environment, these qualifications open doors to meaningful careers in government, engineering consultancies and the water sector.
Internal link: Check our Environmental Bursaries South Africa and finance-related categories for more options.
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What the TCTA Bursary Covers
The TCTA Bursary provides full financial support so you can study without money worries. It covers:
- Full registration and tuition fees
- Accommodation (on-campus or approved private housing)
- Meals
- Prescribed books and learning tools
- A monthly stipend for living expenses
This complete package removes all the main costs of studying. Unlike some bursaries that only pay part of the fees, TCTA aims to cover everything you need to succeed. Students also benefit from possible internship opportunities at TCTA, which give real work experience in the water industry.
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Eligibility Requirements
You must meet ALL of these requirements:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be under 35 years old
- Come from a previously disadvantaged background
- Be in Matric (2024 or later) or already studying in first or second year
- Have a minimum of 60% in English, Mathematics and Physical Science (or relevant subjects) in Matric
- Achieve at least 65% in all major subjects if already studying
- Be studying or provisionally accepted at a recognised South African tertiary institution
- Have a total household income of less than R350 000 per year (before tax)
- Not be receiving any other bursary or sponsorship
- Not be a child or close relative of a TCTA employee
If you do not meet every requirement, your application will not be considered.
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Required Documents when applying for TCTA Bursary
Initially you need:
- Completed TCTA Bursary Application Form
- Copy of your latest academic record
Shortlisted applicants will be asked for certified copies of:
- South African ID document
- Matric certificate
- Proof of university/TVET registration
- Proof of household income
Make sure all documents are clear and complete.
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Step-by-Step How to Apply for TCTA Bursary
- Download or complete the official TCTA Bursary Application Form from the TCTA careers page (when open).
- Fill in every section honestly and completely.
- Attach your latest academic record.
- Write “www.bursariesopennow.co.za” in the field that asks how you heard about the bursary.
- Email everything to bursaries@tcta.co.za.
- Use the subject line “[TCTA Bursary 2025]” or the correct year.
Applications are only accepted by email. Keep a copy of everything you send.
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Closing Date for TCTA Bursary
31 January 2025 (for the 2025 academic year). No official closing date has been announced for 2026 studies. “Not officially specified” for the current cycle. Check Bursaries Open Now regularly for updates.
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Selection Process (if available)
Shortlisted candidates are contacted by TCTA and invited to attend an interview. Final selection is based on academic performance, financial need, background and how well the applicant fits the Project Naledi goals.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can Matric students apply? A: Yes, current Matriculants with provisional acceptance can apply.
Q: Is the bursary only for first-year students? A: No, it is also open to second-year students.
Q: What if my household income is just over R350 000? A: You will not qualify – the income limit is strict.
Q: Can I apply if I already have NSFAS? A: Not officially specified, but the bursary states you must not be receiving any other funding.
Q: Does the bursary require a payback or work contract? A: Not officially specified in public information.
Q: Are there opportunities for internships? A: Yes, Project Naledi includes both bursary and internship components.
Q: How many bursaries are awarded? A: The number changes each year depending on funding.
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Important Notes & Warnings
- Only complete applications sent before the closing date will be considered.
- Late or incomplete applications are automatically rejected.
- Do NOT contact TCTA if the bursary has already closed.
- Use the official email: bursaries@tcta.co.za.
- This bursary is competitive – submit the strongest application possible.
- Always check the official TCTA website or Bursaries Open Now for the next opening.
- Related Searches Section Engineering bursaries in South Africa Bursaries open now 2026 Government bursaries for students NSFAS alternatives Environmental science bursaries South Africa Commerce bursaries South Africa Auditing bursaries Water sector bursaries Financial management bursaries Project Naledi TCTAhttps://bursariesopennow.co.za/bursaries-closing-soon/