IMESA Bursary South Africa For 2026. The Institute of Municipal Engineering of Southern Africa (IMESA) has been a cornerstone of the engineering profession in South Africa since its founding in 1961. With over 1,000 members, including municipal engineers and companies in the built environment sector, IMESA plays a critical role in shaping infrastructure development and community upliftment. One of its most impactful initiatives is the IMESA Bursary Programme, which continues to empower aspiring engineers through student funding and educational funding opportunities.
If you are passionate about pursuing a career in Civil Engineering or a related discipline, the IMESA Bursary South Africa 2026 could be your gateway to achieving your academic and professional dreams.
About the IMESA Bursary
The IMESA Bursary was launched in 2000 with a clear mission: to support financially disadvantaged students who wish to study Civil Engineering, while also recognising the achievements of IMESA members’ dependants. Since its inception, the programme has helped countless young South Africans secure a future in the engineering profession.
The bursary reflects IMESA’s broader mission to:
- Promote excellence in the engineering profession.
- Support municipal and community development.
- Provide meaningful student funding to deserving candidates.
Fields Covered by the IMESA Bursary
The bursary programme is specifically aimed at students pursuing:
- A Civil Engineering degree, or
- A related discipline in infrastructure engineering, approved by the IMESA Executive Council.
For the 2026 academic year, IMESA will award two types of bursaries:
| Bursary Scheme | Who Can Apply | Field of Study |
|---|---|---|
| Scheme A | Non-IMESA members | Civil Engineering or related discipline |
| Scheme B | Dependants of IMESA members | Civil Engineering or related discipline |
This dual structure ensures that the bursary reaches both the wider public and the families of IMESA members.
What Does the IMESA Bursary Cover?
The bursary provides essential educational funding and helps reduce the financial burden of university studies.
- Coverage: Tuition fees and textbooks.
- Maximum Value: Up to R50,000.
- Payment Terms: Funds are paid directly to the tertiary institution within 60 days of IMESA receiving the student account statement.
- Mentorship: Successful candidates are assigned mentors and encouraged to take part in IMESA activities for professional growth.
Before the first bursary payment is made, students must submit:
- Proof of enrolment in their chosen course.
- A valid medical certificate.
Eligibility Requirements for the IMESA Bursary
Applicants must meet strict criteria to ensure that only deserving students are selected. Below are the eligibility requirements for each scheme:
Scheme A (Non-IMESA Members)
- Must be studying full-time towards a Civil Engineering degree or a related infrastructure engineering discipline.
- Must have successfully completed the first year of study.
- Must be entering the second year or higher in 2026.
- Must be enrolled at an ECSA-accredited tertiary institution in South Africa.
- Must demonstrate proven financial need (unable to fund studies without a bursary).
Scheme B (Dependants of IMESA Members)
- Must be a child or dependent of an IMESA member with at least 5 years of membership.
- Must be studying full-time towards a Civil Engineering degree or related discipline.
- Must have completed the first year of study.
- Must be entering the second year or higher in 2026.
- Must be studying at an ECSA-accredited institution.
How to Apply for the IMESA Bursary 2026
Applying for the bursary requires careful preparation. Here’s the step-by-step process:
- Download the Application Form
- Scheme A (Non-members): IMESA Bursary Application Form (PDF).
- Scheme B (Dependants): IMESA Bursary Application Form (PDF).
- Complete the Application Form
- Ensure that every section is filled out clearly and accurately.
- Mention “Zabusaries.com” when asked how you heard about the bursary.
- Prepare Supporting Documents
Attach certified copies of the following:- South African ID document.
- 2025 mid-year exam results.
- Academic progress report from your tertiary institution (signed and stamped).
- Affidavit of parents’ or guardians’ income (proof of financial need).
- Submit Your Application
- Email your application form and documents to [email protected].
- Use the subject line: “IMESA Bursary Application – Scheme A/B”.
Important Notes for Applicants
- Students must declare if they are receiving any other student funding or student loans, as this will be taken into account during selection.
- Receiving the bursary does not guarantee employment with IMESA after graduation. However, recipients are encouraged to pursue careers in Local Government engineering.
- Applications missing documents will not be considered.
Application Closing Date
The closing date for the IMESA Bursary South Africa 2026 is:
- September 15, 2025
Applications received after this deadline will not be accepted. Students are strongly advised to apply early to avoid last-minute issues.
Why Choose the IMESA Bursary?
There are numerous bursary programmes in South Africa, but the IMESA Bursary stands out for several reasons:
- Industry Recognition – Being awarded by IMESA, a highly respected institution in the engineering field, adds credibility to your academic journey.
- Mentorship Opportunities – Students are guided by experienced professionals, helping them bridge the gap between theory and practice.
- Focused on Infrastructure Development – The bursary supports students in fields that directly contribute to South Africa’s infrastructure and community growth.
- Financial Relief – Covers tuition and book expenses, reducing reliance on costly student loans.
Benefits of Educational Funding in Engineering
Access to educational funding plays a crucial role in helping students succeed. The IMESA bursary ensures that talented individuals can focus on their studies without financial stress.
Key Advantages:
- Reduces dropout rates among financially disadvantaged students.
- Promotes equal opportunities for students from all backgrounds.
- Strengthens the pipeline of skilled engineers for South Africa’s future.
- Encourages students to give back to communities through municipal projects.
Contact Information
For any queries regarding the bursary, applicants can directly contact IMESA:
- Tel: 031 266 3263
- Email: [email protected]
Conclusion
The IMESA Bursary South Africa 2026 is more than just a financial aid programme—it’s an opportunity to join a professional community dedicated to shaping South Africa’s infrastructure future. By providing student funding, mentorship, and support, IMESA ensures that passionate Civil Engineering students can achieve their academic goals and contribute meaningfully to society.
