The Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency (IUCMA) invites eligible Mpumalanga students to apply for its 2026 External Bursary covering environmental and water-related studies.
IUCMA External Bursary Opportunities 2026
The Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency (IUCMA) has officially opened applications for its External Bursary Opportunities for the 2026 academic year.
This bursary supports students pursuing qualifications that align with South Africa’s water security, environmental protection, and natural resource management priorities. The programme is aimed at students residing within Mpumalanga, specifically those living in the IUCMA Water Management Area.
Female students and persons living with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Quick Overview
- Bursary Name: IUCMA External Bursary Opportunities 2026
- Organisation: Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency (IUCMA)
- Province: Mpumalanga (residency required)
- Who Can Apply: Matriculants with acceptance & currently registered students
- Fields Funded: Environmental and water-related sciences
- Closing Date: 06 February 2026 at 16:00
- Application Method: Email only
- Email Address: Bursaries@iucma.co.za
- Enquiries: 013 753 9000 (Ms D Malumane / Ms Z Tibane)
- Important Note: No hand-delivered or posted applications accepted
Fields of Study Funded
Applications are restricted to the following approved qualifications:
- BSc / Bachelor’s Degree in Environmental Science
- BSc Hydrology / Water Resource Management
- BSc Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Microbiology
- BSc Geohydrology, Geomorphology, or Botany
Important: Course titles may differ slightly between institutions. However, your qualification must fall within the same academic discipline. If unsure, confirm with the bursary office before applying.
Who Qualifies to Apply?
Applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
1. South African Citizenship
A certified copy of a valid South African ID is required.
2. Academic Performance
- New students:
- Certified Matric certificate with a minimum 65% average
- Proof of admission or provisional acceptance into an approved field
- Currently registered students:
- Certified academic record
- Minimum 60% average in the most recent academic year
3. Mpumalanga Residency (Non-Negotiable)
Applicants must reside within the IUCMA Water Management Area in Mpumalanga.
Proof of residence must be issued by:
- A Local Municipality, or
- A letter signed by a Headman or Chief
4. Household Income Proof
- Proof of parent/guardian income
- SAPS-commissioned affidavit confirming financial status
5. No Other Bursary Funding
Applicants who already receive funding from another bursary or sponsor do not qualify.
6. Contract Agreement
Successful applicants must sign a bursary contract in line with the IUCMA External Bursary Policy.
What the Bursary Covers
The IUCMA bursary covers only the following study-related costs:
- Registration fees
- Tuition and examination fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Prescribed study materials
- Monthly stipend (as per IUCMA policy)
Note: Costs such as transport, laptops, or personal expenses are not included unless explicitly stated in the bursary policy.
How to Apply
Step 1: Download the Application Form
Download the IUCMA Bursary Application Form for 2026 from official IUCMA channels.
Step 2: Prepare Your Supporting Documents
Ensure you include certified copies of:
- South African ID
- Matric certificate (for new students)
- Proof of acceptance or admission
- Academic record (for current students)
- Proof of residence (municipality or traditional authority letter)
- Proof of household income + SAPS affidavit
Tip: Combine all documents into one neatly organised PDF for easy review.
Step 3: Submit by Email (Email Only)
Send your completed application and documents to:
What Is NOT Allowed
- ❌ Hand-delivered applications
- ❌ Posted applications
Only email submissions will be accepted.
Closing Date
06 February 2026 at 16:00
Late applications will not be considered. Applicants are strongly advised to submit at least 2–3 days early to avoid technical or email delays.
Conclusion
The IUCMA External Bursary Opportunities 2026 offer meaningful financial support to Mpumalanga students pursuing careers in environmental science, water management, and related disciplines. By covering core academic costs and providing a stipend, the bursary removes major financial barriers to higher education.
Students who meet the eligibility criteria, prepare complete certified documentation, and submit applications correctly and on time stand a strong chance of being considered. Early preparation and attention to detail can make all the difference.
