The Inkomati-Usuthu Catchment Management Agency (IUCMA) invites applications from deserving South African students for its External Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year. The bursary supports studies in priority water and environmental science fields, aligned to sustainable and equitable water resource management within the Inkomati-Usuthu Water Management Area (WMA) in Mpumalanga.
Bursary Fields of Study
Bursaries are limited to the following qualifications:
- BSc / B Degree in Environmental Science
- BSc Hydrology / Water Resource Management
- BSc Chemistry, Biochemistry or Microbiology
- BSc Geohydrology, Geomorphology or Botany
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements (including, but not limited to):
- Be a South African citizen residing within Mpumalanga Province (within the IUCMA WMA)
- Submit a certified copy of a valid South African ID
- Matric: Minimum 65% average, plus proof of admission or provisional acceptance at a recognised institution
OR - Currently registered students: Submit a certified satisfactory academic record with a minimum 60% average
- Provide proof of residence (Local Municipality letter or confirmation signed by a Headman/Chief)
- Submit proof of household income with a SAPS affidavit
- Not be in receipt of any other bursary or funding
Females and persons with disabilities are strongly encouraged to apply.
Value of the Bursary
The IUCMA bursary covers only the following, in line with the External Bursary Policy:
- Registration fees
- Tuition and examination fees
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Prescribed study material
- A stipend
Successful applicants will be required to sign a bursary contract with IUCMA.
How to Apply
Bursary application forms are available from IUCMA offices in Nelspruit, Bushbuckridge, and Piet Retief, and online.
Click here to download the IUCMA External Bursary Application Form 2026:
Submission Method
📧 Email completed applications to: Bursaries@iucma.co.za
⚠️ Important:
- Hand-delivered or posted applications will NOT be accepted
- Ensure all required supporting documents are attached
Closing Date
- 6 February 2026 at 16:00
If you do not receive any communication within one month after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Enquiries
- Ms D Malumane / Ms Z Tibane
- Tel: 013 753 9000