Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) External Bursary Programme 2027
Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) External Bursary Programme 2027 – Apply Before 30 September 2026
Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) External Bursary Programme 2027
Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) External Bursary Programme 2027
Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) External Bursary Programme 2027
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) has officially opened applications for its External Bursary Programme for the 2027 academic year. This bursary provides financial assistance to deserving South African students who plan to study full-time in qualifications that support South Africa’s water, engineering, construction, and environmental sectors.
Applications opened on 1 June 2026 and will close on 30 September 2026. Students who meet the eligibility requirements are encouraged to submit their applications before the closing date.
The Department aims to develop skilled professionals who will contribute to sustainable water management, infrastructure development, and environmental protection across South Africa.
About the Department of Water and Sanitation
Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) External Bursary Programme 2027
The Department of Water and Sanitation is responsible for ensuring the country’s water resources are protected, managed, developed, and used sustainably. To support future skills development, the Department invests in bursaries that help talented South African students pursue careers in engineering, water sciences, construction, and related fields.
The bursary programme also supports government efforts to improve access to higher education for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Bursary Overview
Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) External Bursary Programme 2027
| Programme | Department of Water and Sanitation External Bursary |
|---|---|
| Academic Year | 2027 |
| Programme Type | Full-Time Tertiary Bursary |
| Opening Date | 1 June 2026 |
| Closing Date | 30 September 2026 |
| Target Applicants | First-Year University Students |
| Application Method |
What the Bursary Supports
Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) External Bursary Programme 2027
The Department provides financial assistance to eligible students studying approved qualifications.
The exact bursary package is determined according to departmental policies and funding availability.
Students should consult the official bursary information for details of the financial support offered.
Eligible Qualifications
Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) External Bursary Programme 2027
Applications are invited from students intending to study the following qualifications:
Bachelor Degrees
- BSc/BEng in Civil Engineering
- BSc/BEng in Mechanical Engineering
- BSc/BEng in Electrical Engineering
Science Degrees
- Hydrology
- Geohydrology
- Construction Management
- Quantity Surveying
- Environmental Sciences
- Water Sciences
Honours Degrees
- BSc (Hons) Geohydrology
- Construction Project Management
- Environmental Sciences
- Water Sciences
Diplomas and BEng Tech
- National Diploma in Civil Engineering
- National Diploma in Mechanical Engineering
- National Diploma in Electrical Engineering (Heavy Current)
- National Diploma in Construction Management
- Bachelor of Engineering Technology (BEng Tech)
Only qualifications listed in the official bursary advertisement will be considered.
Who Can Apply?
For the 2027 academic year, the bursary is intended for:
- South African citizens.
- Students applying for first-year tertiary studies in approved qualifications.
- Students who meet the admission requirements of their chosen institution.
- Students with financial need.
- Students from previously disadvantaged backgrounds.
The Department particularly encourages applications from:
- Students from rural communities.
- Students from disadvantaged households.
- Students living in poverty.
- Students with disabilities.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants should submit a complete application together with certified copies of the required documents.
These generally include:
- South African Identity Document.
- Grade 12 certificate or latest Grade 12 results (if currently completing Matric).
- Proof of university application or provisional acceptance for first-year students.
- Other supporting documents requested in the official application form.
Applications must be signed and completed in full.
Incomplete applications may not be considered.
How to Apply
Applicants must complete the official Department of Water and Sanitation bursary application form.
The completed application form together with all required supporting documents must be submitted by email.
Official Application Email
https://www.dws.gov.za/learninga/Doc/2027%20DWS%20Internet%20bursary%20application-FINAL.pdf
Applications submitted after 30 September 2026 will not be considered.
Official Website
For the bursary application form, eligibility criteria, and additional information, visit the official Department of Water and Sanitation website:
https://www.dws.gov.za/LearningA
Applicants should download the official application form directly from the Department’s website.
Application Tips
To improve your chances of success:
- Complete every section of the application form.
- Ensure your application is signed.
- Attach all certified supporting documents.
- Submit your application before the closing date.
- Double-check your email address and contact number.
- Keep copies of all submitted documents.
Why Apply?
The Department of Water and Sanitation bursary helps talented students pursue careers in fields that are essential to South Africa’s future.
Graduates in engineering, environmental science, hydrology, and water management play an important role in infrastructure development, sustainable water use, and environmental protection.
This bursary can reduce the financial burden of higher education while supporting students who have the potential to contribute to national development.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply?
South African students applying for first-year tertiary studies in one of the approved qualifications.
When do applications close?
Applications close on 30 September 2026.
Where do I submit my application?
Applications must be emailed to:
Which qualifications qualify?
Approved qualifications include Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Hydrology, Geohydrology, Environmental Sciences, Water Sciences, Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Construction Project Management, and selected National Diplomas and BEng Tech qualifications.
Are students with disabilities encouraged to apply?
Yes. The Department specifically encourages applications from students with disabilities.
Where can I download the application form?
The application form is available on the official Department of Water and Sanitation website:
https://www.dws.gov.za/LearningA
Final Thoughts
The Department of Water and Sanitation (DWS) External Bursary Programme 2027 is an excellent opportunity for South African students who wish to study engineering, water sciences, environmental sciences, and related disciplines. By investing in the education of talented young people, the Department is helping develop the skilled professionals needed to support South Africa’s future water security and infrastructure development.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, complete the official application form, attach all required documents, and submit your application to bursaries@dws.gov.za before the 30 September 2026 closing date. Always use the official Department of Water and Sanitation website for the latest application information and updates.