Key Facts
- Status
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- Provider
- Field of Study
- Study Level
Eligibility Requirements
- South African citizen, aged 18–25
- Matric (NSC) or equivalent, with at least 60% for Mathematics and Physical Science
- Full-time study at an accredited South African institution
- Studying Chemical, Civil, Environmental or Mechanical Engineering, Environmental Science, Hydrology, Information Technology/Cyber Security, Water Management, or Water Treatment & Waste Management
- Meets the field-specific APS score requirement (roughly 26–36 depending on field)
- From a disadvantaged background and not receiving other bursary funding
- Willing to accept a two-year work-back obligation after graduation
Documents Needed
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified matric certificate or latest academic results
- Proof of institutional registration or acceptance
- Proof of residence
- Parents'/guardians' proof of income (payslips, affidavit, or pension/SASSA proof)
- Motivational letter outlining career goals
About Vaal Central Water Bursary
Vaal Central Water is a Schedule 3B national government water board, established under the Water Services Act and the Public Finance Management Act, that supplies bulk water services to thirteen local municipalities as well as mines and solar generation facilities across the Free State and Northern Cape provinces. It is headquartered in Bloemfontein and is a distinct entity from other South African water boards such as Rand Water, which operates in Gauteng.
Vaal Central Water runs an annual bursary programme intended to build a pipeline of skilled professionals for the water and environmental sector, awarding a number of full-time bursaries each year to South African students studying water-, engineering- and environment-related qualifications.
Funding Details
The bursary covers full tuition fees, prescribed textbooks, accommodation or residence costs, and a living allowance. Funding is awarded on an annual basis and may be renewed for subsequent years of study subject to satisfactory academic performance. Recipients are expected to complete vacation work, work-integrated learning or job shadowing with Vaal Central Water during their studies, and a two-year work-back obligation applies after graduation.
Where You Can Study
Open to full-time study at any accredited South African tertiary institution, in a qualification relevant to the water and environmental sector.
About Vaal Central Water
Vaal Central Water is a national government-owned entity, established under the Water Services Act 108 of 1997 and classified as a Schedule 3B national public entity, that supplies bulk water and sanitation services acro…
View full provider profile →Fields of Study & Who Can Apply
The bursary is aimed at South African citizens aged 18 to 25 who have completed matric with at least 60% for Mathematics and Physical Science, and who are studying, or plan to study, full-time at an accredited South African institution in a water-, engineering- or environment-related field. Applicants must come from a disadvantaged background and must not already be receiving other bursary funding. Preference is given to female applicants, applicants with disabilities, and applicants from Vaal Central Water's own fence-line communities in the Free State and Northern Cape.
Application Procedure
Apply directly with the provider using the official application link below, before the closing date.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Vaal Central Water the same as Rand Water?
No. Vaal Central Water is a separate, distinct national government water board headquartered in Bloemfontein, serving thirteen municipalities in the Free State and Northern Cape. Rand Water is a different entity serving Gauteng. The two should not be confused.
Is the bursary open for 2027?
Vaal Central Water had not published 2027 intake dates as of August 2026. The most recently confirmed cycle was for 2026: sources vary on the exact closing date (16 January 2026 per one notice, extended to 6 February 2026 per another), and it has already lapsed. Check vaalcentralwater.co.za or the application portal for the next call for applications.
How many bursaries are awarded?
The 2026 cycle offered 20 full-time bursaries; this number may vary in future cycles depending on budget.
Is there a work-back obligation?
Yes — recipients are expected to work for Vaal Central Water for two years after completing their studies, in addition to vacation work or work-integrated learning during their studies.
