Are you a passionate and ambitious young South African from Limpopo dreaming of studying abroad? The Limpopo Office of the Premier, in partnership with the Education, Training and Development Practices Sector Education and Training Authority (ETDPSETA), has announced the Chinese Bursary Programme 2026 — an incredible chance to study for a fully funded four-year bachelor’s degree in China, starting in February 2026.
This life-changing programme aims to support post-matric youth who are eager to gain world-class education in key science and technology disciplines, empowering them to bring those skills back home to South Africa.
About the Chinese Bursary Programme 2026
The ETDPSETA Chinese Bursary Programme, offered through the Limpopo Office of the Premier, is part of an ongoing international partnership designed to develop globally competent graduates in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics).
The initiative targets deserving learners from Limpopo who have completed Grade 12 and wish to pursue university studies in China. All academic, travel, and living expenses are covered, ensuring that financial challenges don’t stand in the way of academic success.
Successful candidates will spend four enriching years in China, gaining not only a degree but also exposure to diverse cultures, advanced technology, and global learning experiences that can strengthen South Africa’s innovation landscape.
Fields of Study
Learners will have the opportunity to enrol in one of the following degree programmes:
- Bachelor of Engineering (Data Science and Big Data Technology) — Ref: TDP/DSBDT/2025
- Bachelor of Science (Mathematics and Applied Mathematics) — Ref: ETDP/MAM/2025
- Bachelor of Engineering (New Energy Power Generation Engineering Technology) — Ref: ETDP/NEPG/2025
These fields are vital to South Africa’s future economy, offering pathways into data analytics, clean energy development, and advanced engineering — sectors that need skilled professionals now more than ever.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria to qualify for consideration:
- Be a South African citizen currently residing in Limpopo Province
- Be 30 years of age or younger
- Have achieved at least 60% in Mathematics and Physical Science in Grade 12
- Have an overall Grade 12 average of 60% or above
- Be unemployed and not enrolled in any other academic programme
- Have no criminal record
- Preference will be given to candidates who are social grant recipients (proof from SASSA required)
- Have completed Grade 12 between 2022 and 2025
Documents Required
Applicants must upload all supporting documents as a single file on the Limpopo eRecruitment System. The following documents are compulsory:
- A motivation letter (maximum two pages) explaining why you deserve the bursary, including the reference number of your chosen qualification
- A certified copy of your Grade 12 Certificate and latest Statement of Results
- A certified copy of your South African ID
- Proof of residence (not older than three months)
- Confirmation letter from SASSA (if applicable)
Programme Benefits
The bursary offers comprehensive financial and academic support, including:
- Full tuition coverage for four years
- Accommodation and meal allowances
- Monthly living stipend
- Paid international return flights
- Pre-departure training, including Mandarin language and cultural orientation
- Academic and psychosocial support throughout your studies
Students will be placed at top Chinese universities, including:
- Jiangsu University (Nanjing Province)
- Sanda University (Zhejiang Province)
- Mianyang University (Sichuan Province)
How to Apply
All applications must be submitted online through the official Limpopo eRecruitment portal:
https://erecruitment.limpopo.gov.za/
When applying, ensure that all documents are combined into a single PDF file before uploading. Only complete applications submitted through the system will be reviewed.
Closing Date: 20 October 2025 at 23h59
Contact Details
For more information or application assistance, reach out to:
Ms. Salome Mokgaphane
069 354 0965 | 📧 Mokgaphanes@premier.limpopo.gov.za
Mr. Eastern Nemalili
066 487 1499 | 📧 Nemalilie@premier.limpopo.gov.za
Important Notes
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- If you do not receive feedback within three months after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
- The Office of the Premier reserves the right to select candidates based on provincial needs and available placements.
Conclusion
The Limpopo Office of the Premier ETDPSETA Chinese Bursary Programme 2026 is an extraordinary opportunity for young South Africans who want to study abroad, gain advanced technical knowledge, and contribute to the nation’s development upon their return.
If you have the passion, academic excellence, and drive to succeed, apply before 20 October 2025 — your global education journey could begin right here.