The Transport Education Training Authority (TETA) is once again opening doors of opportunity for South African students through its 2026 Bursary Programme. This initiative plays a vital role in developing the country’s future workforce by supporting learners who are passionate about pursuing careers in transport and related sectors.
With South Africa’s transport industry being a cornerstone of economic growth—covering aviation, shipping, rail, road freight, and logistics—the TETA bursary ensures that talented students are not held back by financial constraints. Instead, it gives them the chance to gain the qualifications they need to become innovators and leaders in this critical sector.
Fields of Study Covered
For 2026, the TETA Bursary Programme will fund studies in the following fields:
- Aeronautical Engineering (BSc/B degree)
- Accounting (BCom)
- ATPL (Hour Building)
- Bachelor’s Degree / Honours / Postgraduate Diploma
- Business Administration (National Diploma / B-Tech / Advanced Diploma / B Degree)
- Commercial Divers (Class II / III / IV)
- Commercial Pilot License
- CPL with ATPL Subjects (Frozen ATPL)
- Data Sciences (BSc)
- Doctoral Degree (PhD) – research relevant to the transport sector
- Electrical Engineering (National Diploma / B Degree / N4–N6)
- Electronic Engineering (National Diploma / B Degree / N4–N6)
- Financial Management (National Diploma / B-Tech / Advanced Diploma / B Degree)
- Health and Safety Management (National Diploma / B-Tech / Advanced Diploma / B Degree)
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT) (National Diploma / B-Tech / Advanced Diploma / BSc)
- Instructor’s Rating / Instrument Rating
- Law (B Degree)
- Logistics Management (National Diploma / B-Tech / Advanced Diploma / B Degree)
- Marine Engineering (B Degree)
- Maritime Law (B Degree)
- Maritime / Nautical Studies (National Diploma / B-Tech / Advanced Diploma / B Degree)
- Master’s Degree – research relevant to the transport sector
- Mechanical Engineering (National Diploma / B Degree / N4–N6)
- Operations Management (National Diploma / B-Tech / Advanced Diploma / B Degree / Honours Degree)
- Private Pilot License
- Risk Management (National Diploma / B-Tech / Advanced Diploma / B Degree)
- Road Transport Management (National Diploma / B-Tech / Advanced Diploma / B Degree)
- Supply Chain Management (National Diploma / B-Tech / Advanced Diploma / B Degree)
- Transport Economics (National Diploma / B-Tech / Advanced Diploma / B Degree)
- Transportation Management (National Diploma / B-Tech / Advanced Diploma / B Degree)
By supporting these study areas, TETA helps ensure that South Africa builds a skilled workforce ready to meet the demands of modern infrastructure and mobility.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:
- Be a South African citizen between the ages of 18 and 35.
- Be enrolled or accepted at a public university, university of technology, or TVET college in South Africa.
- Be pursuing a qualification in one of the transport-related fields listed above.
- Show strong academic performance.
- Be from a household earning R350,000 or less per year (priority will be given to financially needy students).
What the Bursary Covers
The TETA Bursary Programme is comprehensive and aims to remove financial stress so students can fully focus on their studies. It provides funding for:
- Tuition fees (paid directly to the institution)
- Registration fees
- Prescribed textbooks and study materials
- Accommodation and meals (where applicable)
Required Documents
When applying, applicants must submit certified copies of the following documents:
- Completed TETA bursary application form
- South African ID
- Proof of acceptance or registration at a recognised institution
- Academic record or Grade 12 results (for first-year applicants)
- Proof of household income (salary slips or affidavit if unemployed)
- Proof of residence
Selection Process
Applications are screened and shortlisted based on academic merit, financial need, and field of study relevance. Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews. Please note that only successful applicants will be contacted.
How to Apply
Closing Date: 24 September 2025
Conclusion
The TETA Bursary Programme 2026 is more than just a funding opportunity—it is an investment in the future of South Africa’s transport industry. If you are passionate about shaping the fields of logistics, aviation, shipping, or infrastructure, this bursary could be the stepping stone that helps you achieve your career dreams.
