SANAS Bursary 2026

The South African National Accreditation System (SANAS) Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year supports students who want to build careers in quality assurance, science, engineering and technical fields. For students in KwaZulu-Natal, this bursary offers an important opportunity to access funding while studying qualifications that are in demand across laboratories, inspection bodies and certification organisations.

Students at KZN universities such as the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Durban University of Technology (DUT), Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), the University of Zululand (UNIZULU), as well as eligible TVET colleges, are encouraged to apply. SANAS plays a critical role in ensuring standards and compliance in South Africa, and this bursary helps develop skilled professionals who can contribute to this sector. For financially deserving KZN students planning to study in 2026, the SANAS bursary can significantly reduce study costs and open doors to specialised career paths.

• Bursary Name: SANAS Bursary Programme
• Provider: South African National Accreditation System (SANAS)
• Fields of Study: Science, Engineering, Quality Assurance, Laboratory and technical disciplines
• Study Level: Undergraduate and postgraduate
• Who Can Apply: South African citizens studying in public universities or TVET colleges in approved fields
• Closing Date: 30 January 2026
• Funding Covered: Tuition fees, prescribed textbooks and selected study-related costs

This bursary is suitable for students who are interested in careers linked to testing, inspection, certification, quality management and scientific analysis. It is ideal for KZN university students studying science or engineering qualifications, as well as TVET students enrolled in relevant technical programmes. Both undergraduate and postgraduate students with good academic performance and a clear interest in quality and standards-related careers should consider applying.

• Must be a South African citizen
• Accepted or registered to study at a public university or TVET college
• Studying towards a qualification aligned to SANAS priority fields
• Demonstrate financial need
• Have satisfactory academic performance in previous studies
• Not receiving another full bursary for the same academic year

• Science: Chemistry, Microbiology, Biotechnology, Environmental Science
• Engineering: Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Industrial Engineering
• Quality & Technical Fields: Quality Management, Metrology, Laboratory Technology

• Check that your qualification falls within SANAS priority study areas.
• Prepare certified copies of your South African ID and latest academic records.
• Obtain proof of acceptance or registration from your university or TVET college.
• Collect proof of household income or an affidavit if applicable.
• Complete the SANAS bursary application form carefully and honestly.
• Submit all required documents before the closing date.

Important Dates

• Opening Date:  January 2026
• Closing Date: 30 January 2026 – Apply early to avoid missing out.

• Can TVET students apply? Yes. TVET students in relevant technical and laboratory-related programmes may apply.
• Can KZN students studying outside KZN apply? Yes. The bursary is open to students at public institutions across South Africa.
• Is NSFAS allowed with this bursary? Generally no. Applicants should not receive another full bursary concurrently.
• What documents are required? Certified ID, academic transcripts, proof of registration and proof of income.
• What happens after applying? Shortlisted applicants may be contacted for verification, interviews or further assessment.

Download and complete the SANAS Bursary Application Form 2026 (.pdf)

Applications must be submitted via email to: careers@sanas.co.za
(Insert the words “SANAS Bursary Application 2026” in the email subject line).

You may also be interested in other 2026 bursaries for KZN students listed on KZN Uni Updates.