National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA) Bursaries 2026: Complete Guide for Master’s and PhD Students
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa 2026 NERSA Bursary EduProgramme, offering financial support to South African Master’s and PhD students whose studies align with the country’s energy sector.
As South Africa continues to reform and modernise its energy systems, the need for skilled professionals in electricity regulation, piped-gas oversight, and petroleum pipeline governance continues to grow. Therefore, NERSA uses this bursary programme to support postgraduate research while strengthening scarce regulatory skills.
Importantly, applications close on 12 February 2026, and NERSA will not consider late submissions.
Overview of the NERSA Bursary Programme 2026
The NERSA Bursary Programme directly supports postgraduate students whose academic work contributes to energy regulation, policy development, and sustainable infrastructure management.
Through this initiative, NERSA not only assists individual students but also strengthens South Africa’s regulatory capacity. As a result, the programme plays a strategic role in shaping the future of the national energy landscape.
Moreover, the bursary focuses on students who demonstrate strong academic potential and a clear commitment to contributing to the energy sector after completing their studies.
About the National Energy Regulator of South Africa (NERSA)
NERSA operates as an independent public entity responsible for regulating electricity, piped-gas, and petroleum pipeline industries in South Africa.
Specifically, the regulator:
- Oversees energy pricing and tariff structures
- Protects consumer interests
- Promotes security of supply
- Encourages sustainable and efficient energy development
In addition, NERSA balances the interests of consumers, government, and industry participants. By offering bursaries, the regulator extends its mandate beyond compliance and enforcement. Consequently, it invests directly in skills development and long-term sector stability.
Why the NERSA Bursary EduProgramme 2026 Is Important for South Africa
South Africa faces persistent challenges in energy availability, infrastructure planning, and regulatory reform. Therefore, the country needs professionals who understand both technical energy systems and regulatory frameworks.
The NERSA bursary addresses these needs by:
- Supporting postgraduate research in energy regulation
- Developing future policy and regulatory specialists
- Encouraging transformation within the energy sector
- Strengthening institutional capacity
As a result, bursary recipients often pursue careers in regulatory authorities, government departments, state-owned entities, academic institutions, and the private energy sector.
Fields of Study Funded by the NERSA Bursary EduProgramme 2026
NERSA funds Master’s and PhD studies in disciplines that align with its regulatory mandate. These fields include, but are not limited to:
- Electricity regulation and energy systems
- Piped-gas regulation
- Petroleum pipelines regulation
- Energy economics
- Energy law and policy
- Infrastructure regulation
- Other closely related energy and regulatory disciplines
Importantly, applicants must clearly demonstrate how their proposed research topic supports energy regulation or policy development. Strong alignment significantly improves selection prospects.
What the NERSA Bursary EduProgramme 2026 Covers
The bursary provides financial support for essential academic costs. Specifically, NERSA covers:
- Registration fees
- Tuition fees
- Accommodation
- Prescribed textbooks or a laptop
However, NERSA does not offer a fixed bursary value. Instead, the organisation determines funding through a financial means test. Consequently, students from lower-income households receive priority support.
Eligibility Requirements for the NERSA Bursary EduProgramme 2026
Applicants must meet all of the following requirements to qualify:
- Hold South African citizenship
- Plan to study towards a Master’s or PhD qualification in 2026
- Secure acceptance at a South African University or University of Technology
- Maintain a strong academic record
- Demonstrate academic potential and research capability
- Come from a previously disadvantaged background
- Show proven financial need
- Receive no other bursary funding
- Demonstrate interest in a future career in the energy sector
Failure to meet any requirement will result in disqualification. Therefore, applicants should review the criteria carefully before applying.
How to Apply for the NERSA Bursary EduProgramme 2026
NERSA accepts applications through email, post, or hand delivery. Importantly, applicants do not need to complete an application form.
Application Methods
Email Application
Applicants may submit their documents via email to:
bursaries@nersa.org.za
Email subject: NERSA Bursary 2026
Postal Application
Send applications to:
The National Energy Regulator of South Africa
Human Resources Department
PO Box 40343
Arcadia
Pretoria
0007
Hand Delivery
Applicants may deliver applications to:
NERSA Offices
Kulawula House
526 Madiba Street
Arcadia
Pretoria
0007
All applications must clearly state Attention: Ms Lena Rankhumise or Mr Nkanyiso Magwaza.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must submit clear and certified copies of the following documents:
- South African identity document
- Full tertiary academic record
- Official university acceptance letter
- Proposed dissertation topic and abstract
- Motivational letter of approximately 500 words
- Parents’ or guardians’ identity documents
- Proof of household income
Incomplete submissions may lead to disqualification. Therefore, applicants should double-check all documents before submission.
How to Strengthen Your NERSA Bursary EduProgramme 2026 Application
To improve your chances, applicants should:
- Align their research proposal with energy regulation priorities
- Clearly explain how their studies will benefit South Africa
- Highlight academic achievements and research experience
- Write a focused and compelling motivation letter
- Submit the application well before the closing date
Additionally, applicants should ensure that all documents are correctly certified and easy to read.
Closing Date for the NERSA Bursary EduProgramme 2026
NERSA will close applications on 12 February 2026.
Because the organisation does not accept late applications, early submission remains strongly advised.
Contact Details for Enquiries
For bursary-related enquiries, applicants may contact:
- Contact Persons: Ms Lena Rankhumise / Mr Nkanyiso Magwaza
- Telephone: 012 401 4600
- Email: bursaries@nersa.org.za
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Does NERSA Bursary Eduprogramme 2026 fund undergraduate studies?
No. NERSA only funds postgraduate studies at Master’s and PhD level.
May I apply NERSA Bursary EduProgramme 2026 if I already have another bursary?
No. Applicants must not receive funding from another bursary provider.
Does NERSA Bursary EduProgramme 2026 accept students from private institutions?
No. Applicants must study at a public South African University or University of Technology.
Does NERSA Bursary EduProgramme 2026 require an application form?
No. Applicants must submit supporting documents only.
How does NERSA Bursary EduProgramme 2026 determine the bursary value?
NERSA calculates the bursary amount using a financial means test.
Final Remarks
The NERSA Bursary Programme 2026 offers a strategic opportunity for postgraduate students who want to influence South Africa’s energy future. By funding advanced studies in energy regulation, NERSA actively builds regulatory expertise while promoting sustainable development.
Eligible students should prepare strong applications and submit them well before the deadline.
