The Institute of Municipal Engineering of Southern Africa (IMESA) invites eligible students to apply for the 2026 academic year. This opportunity is aimed at South African students who meet the qualifying criteria and are pursuing studies in Civil Engineering or other approved infrastructure-related fields.

About the Bursary Provider

IMESA is a professional body focused on advancing municipal engineering in Southern Africa. The organisation plays a vital role in infrastructure development within local government, offering financial assistance to help grow skilled engineering professionals across South Africa.

Fields Covered

The bursary covers studies in the following field(s):

  • Civil Engineering
  • Other infrastructure engineering fields (subject to IMESA’s approval)

Expenses Covered

The bursary will cover:

  • Tuition fees
  • Books (up to a maximum of R50,000.00)

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet the following minimum entry criteria:

  • Must be a South African citizen
  • Must have completed the first year of study in Civil Engineering or a related infrastructure field
  • Must be studying full-time at a recognised and ECSA-accredited institution
  • Must demonstrate financial need (affidavit required)
  • Must provide proof of academic progress
  • Must not be applying for retrospective funding or practical training

How to Apply

To apply, download and complete the relevant application form below:

For dependents of IMESA members: IMESA Application Form – Member (Form B)
For non-members: IMESA Application Form – Non-Member (Form A)

Submit clear, certified copies of the following documents with the completed form:

  • South African ID document
  • Proof of academic progress and transcript
  • Proof of registration for 2026
  • Affidavit of financial need and parent/guardian income
  • Medical certificate (if required)
  • Any other supporting documents requested on the form

Applications must be submitted via: email or post

Email: bursaries@imesa.org.za
Postal Address: P.O. Box 2190, Westville, 3630, South Africa
Tel/Fax: +27 (0)31 266 5094
Subject line: IMESA Bursary Application 2026

Closing Date

15 September 2025

Ensure that you submit your application before the deadline. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Contact the Bursary Provider

For queries, contact:

Institute of Municipal Engineering of Southern Africa (IMESA)
Tel/Fax: +27 (0)31 266 5094
Email: bursaries@imesa.org.za
Website: www.imesa.org.za

Related Bursaries

Who qualifies for the IMESA Bursary?
South African students who are studying Civil Engineering or an approved infrastructure-related field full-time and have completed their first year at an accredited institution.
How much does the IMESA Bursary cover?
The bursary covers tuition and book fees up to a maximum of R50,000 per student.
Is the IMESA Bursary available for first-year students?
No. The bursary is only available to students who have completed their first year of study.
Can non-IMESA member dependents apply?
Yes. There are separate application forms for IMESA members’ dependents (Form B) and non-members (Form A).
Where do I submit my application?
Applications must be submitted via email to bursaries@imesa.org.za or posted to IMESA Head Office, P.O. Box 2190, Westville, 3630.
When is the closing date for IMESA Bursary applications?
The closing date for the 2026 bursary is 15 September 2025.
Can I apply if I already have another bursary?
Yes, but you must declare any other bursaries you’ve been awarded. This will be taken into account during evaluation.
Is the IMESA Bursary paid to the student?
No. The bursary amount is paid directly to the tertiary institution after evaluation and approval.
What documents must I include with my application?
Certified ID, academic transcript, proof of registration, affidavit of financial status, and additional forms listed in the application instructions.
Will IMESA offer me a job after graduation?
No. IMESA does not guarantee employment but encourages graduates to consider careers in local government.