The Transport Education Training Authority (TETA) bursary is a potential opportunity for South African students interested in pursuing careers in technical and vocational fields. This bursary programme, funded by the government, aims to address the critical skills shortage in various sectors by providing financial assistance to deserving students. Different students work or look after their families, and they can also choose part-time bursaries.
The TETA bursary 2026 offers financial aid services to support various TVET programmes at academic centres nationwide. Those who qualify are given full sponsorship for tuition fees, accommodation charges, textbook fees, and other costs associated with learning. It also provides internship opportunities through which participants can acquire job skills.
The essence of combining these two aspects of education is to fully equip students with the skills and knowledge needed for academics and for careers.
Table of Contents
This article will explain the TETA bursary 2026, including its monthly allowance, eligibility, and closing date.
What is the TETA Bursary?
The TETA Bursary Programme has existed since 2000. It was founded by the Transport Education and Training Authority (TETA). This establishment is part of the Department of Higher Education and Training as a governmental agency. Smoothly behind the scenes, TETA is among the country’s diverse Sector Education and Training Authorities (SETAs). These bodies are charged with enhancing workers’ capabilities within the transport industry.
The primary objective of the TETA bursary is to address the critical skills shortage across various transport-related industries, including maritime, road freight, rail, aviation, and others. The Transport Education Training Authority (TETA) Bursary in 2026 is aimed at supporting South African students pursuing qualifications. This initiative is designed to address the industry’s skills gap by providing financial assistance to deserving students. The bursary covers various educational expenses, including tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and, in some cases, living expenses.
Fields Covered by the TETA Bursary Programme
The Transport Education Training Authority (TETA) is now accepting applications for its Unemployed Bursary for the 2026 academic year.
Some of the fields that are supported by this bursary are as follows:
- Aeronautical Engineering (B Degree/ BSc)
- Accounting (BCom)
- ATPL (Hour Building)
- Bachelor of Honours Degree/Postgraduate Diploma/ Bachelor’s Degree
- Private Pilot Licence
- Risk Management (National Diploma/ B-Tech/ Advanced Diploma/ B Degree)
- Road Transport Management (National Diploma/ B-Tech/ Advanced Diploma/ B Degree)
- Supply Chain Management (including Warehouse, Storage and Distribution) (National Diploma/ B-Tech/ Advanced Diploma/ B Degree)
- Transport Economics (National Diploma/ B-Tech/ Advanced Diploma/ B degree)
- Electrical 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 (National Diploma/ B-Tech/ Advanced Diploma/ B Degree BSc)
- Business Administration (National Diploma/ B-Tech/ Advanced Diploma/ B Degree)
- Commercial Divers (Class II/ III/ IV)
- Commercial Pilot Licence
- CPL with ATPL Subjects (Frozen ATPL)
- Data Sciences (BSc)
- Doctoral Degree (PhD)
- 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 topics 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)
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TETA Bursary Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the TETA Bursary, applicants must meet a set of eligibility criteria to ensure funding is allocated to deserving students pursuing transport-related careers. These criteria cover citizenship, academic performance, financial need, and programme-specific requirements.
The table below presents the TETA Bursary eligibility requirements in a clear and simplified format for easy understanding.
| Eligibility Area | Key Requirements |
| Citizenship | South African citizen |
| Field of Study | Transport-related fields: logistics, maritime, rail, aviation, road transport |
| Academic Performance | Minimum 50% average in previous studies |
| Financial Criteria | Household income of R350,000 or less per annum |
| Institution Type | Registered or intending to register at a recognised public or private university (undergraduate) or a public TVET college (NCV) |
| Enrollment Status | Currently studying or planning to enrol at a recognised South African tertiary institution |
| Pilot Training – Commercial Pilot | Valid Private Pilot Licence (PPL) |
| Pilot Training – Instructor / Instrument Rating | Valid Commercial Pilot Licence |
| Pilot Training – ATPL | Valid Commercial Pilot Licence with Instructor and Instrument ratings |
Meeting these eligibility requirements is essential before proceeding with the application. Once applicants confirm that they qualify, they can confidently begin the TETA Bursary application process and apply for funding aligned with their chosen field of study.
How to Apply Online for the TETA Bursary?
The TETA bursary online application can be downloaded from its official website. You can download the form, fill it out, and attach it with the essential documents. Each student’s basis for their current study document can vary:
| Applicant Category | Required Documents |
| Matric Students | ID (certified), Grade 11/Matric results, Proof of application/acceptance, Parent/Guardian ID or death certificate, Household income proof, Employment status affidavit |
| Undergraduate & Postgraduate Students | ID (certified), Highest qualification/results, Proof of application/registration, Parent/Guardian ID or death certificate, Household income proof, Employment affidavit, Tuition & accommodation quotations, Financial statement |
| TVET Students | ID (certified), Matric certificate, Proof of application/acceptance, Proof of registration, Parent/Guardian ID or death certificate, Household income proof, Employment affidavit |
| Pilot Training Bursaries | ID (certified), Matric results/certificate, Valid pilot licence (as applicable), Proof of aviation school acceptance, Parent/Guardian ID or death certificate, Household income proof, Employment affidavit, Training cost quotations |
| Commercial Diving Students | ID (certified), Highest qualification, Proof of diving school acceptance, Parent/Guardian ID or death certificate, Household income proof, Employment affidavit, Training & equipment quotations |
Note: All documents must be certified and clearly scanned before submission.
With the above requirement of a bursary based on different education programmes, some of the possible reasons for application rejection include:
- Applicants not meeting the criteria;
- If you fail to submit all the required documents,
- Suppose the applicant is currently funded in any TETA programme or by another sponsor.
- The Total household income is over R350 000 per annum.
What is the TETA Bursary Monthly Allowance?
The TETA Bursary provides a monthly allowance to help cover the living expenses of the bursary recipients. The exact amount of the monthly allowance can vary depending on the individual programme and the cost of living in the area where the student is studying. Typically, this allowance is intended to cover expenses such as food, transport, and personal items. Detailed information on the exact allowance amount can be obtained directly from TETA during the application process or by consulting the bursary guidelines.
TETA Bursary Closing Date
The closing date for the TETA Bursary application hasn’t been released yet, but it is advised to apply early to avoid any delay.
The closing date for the TETA Bursary application varies each year. Generally, applications open early in the year and close around mid-year. Applicants should regularly check the TETA website for the most accurate and up-to-date information or contact the bursary office directly. Submitting the TETA bursary application before the deadline is crucial, as late applications are not considered.
TETA Bursary Contact Detail
For more detailed information, you can contact the bursary programme provider at
- Tel: 011 577 7018 / 011 577 7093 / 011 577 7098 / 011 577 7033 / 011 577 7004
- Email on: ConfidenceN@teta.org.za / Juliet@teta.org.za / NqobileS@teta.org.za / KediboneN@teta.org.za / PhutiR@teta.org.za
Conclusion
The TETA Bursary is a valuable funding opportunity for South African students pursuing careers in the transport sector. By reducing the financial burden of tuition and related study expenses, the bursary allows students to focus on academic achievement and professional development. Applicants are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria carefully and submit complete applications within the specified deadlines.
For more information related to bursaries and education opportunities, visit Regenesys Education’s Reginsights page to explore available options and expert guidance.
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FAQs
What is the TETA Bursary?
The TETA Bursary is a financial aid program provided by the Transport Education and Training Authority (TETA) to support South African students pursuing qualifications in transport-related fields.
Who can apply for the TETA Bursary?
South African citizens who are enrolled or plan to enrol in recognised tertiary institutions and are pursuing qualifications in transport-related fields can apply.
Which fields of study are supported by the TETA Bursary?
The bursary supports various fields, including Aeronautical Engineering, Road Transport Management, Supply Chain Management, and Maritime Law, among others.
What expenses does the TETA Bursary cover?
The bursary covers tuition fees, accommodation charges, textbooks, and other related educational expenses.
Does the TETA Bursary provide a monthly allowance?
Yes, the TETA Bursary provides a monthly allowance to cover living expenses, including food, transport, and personal items.
What are the eligibility requirements for the TETA Bursary?
Applicants must be South African citizens, demonstrate financial need, have a strong academic record, and be pursuing a relevant field of study.
How do I apply for the TETA Bursary?
You can apply online by downloading the application form from the TETA website, completing it, and attaching the required documents.
What documents are needed for the TETA Bursary application?
Documents required include certified copies of ID, academic records, proof of application/acceptance to a recognised institution, and proof of household income, among others.
