If you are unemployed and planning to study architecture, engineering, construction, or related built-environment qualifications in 2026, the CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary Scheme offers one of the most comprehensive funding opportunities currently available in South Africa. Designed to remove financial barriers, this bursary supports deserving students who want to build sustainable careers in the construction and infrastructure sector.
What Is the CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary Scheme?
The Thapelo Madibeng Bursary Scheme is funded and administered by the Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA). It is aimed at unemployed South African students from low- to middle-income households who wish to pursue qualifications in the built-environment sector.
CETA plays a critical role in developing skills for South Africa’s construction industry. Through this bursary, CETA invests directly in future professionals who will contribute to national infrastructure development, urban planning, housing delivery, and economic growth.
The bursary is available for studies at public universities and universities of technology across South Africa.
CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary 2026: Overview
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary Name | Thapelo Madibeng Bursary Scheme |
| Academic Year | 2026 |
| Funding Body | Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA) |
| Target Group | Unemployed South African students |
| Fields of Study | Built-environment qualifications |
| Institutions | Public universities & universities of technology |
| Closing Date | 30 January 2026 |
What Does the Bursary Cover?
The CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary is a fully funded programme, meaning it covers most study-related costs so that students can focus on academic success.
Financial Support Includes:
- Full tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks and approved study materials
- Accommodation and meals (where applicable)
- Living allowance
- Travel costs, if required
- Research funding for Master’s and PhD students (research-only support)
This comprehensive funding makes the bursary especially valuable for students without access to other financial resources.
Fields of Study Supported
The bursary supports qualifications aligned with CETA-approved built-environment programmes, including but not limited to:
- Architecture
- Civil Engineering
- Construction Management
- Quantity Surveying
- Town and Regional Planning
- Building Science
- Property Studies
- Other construction and infrastructure-related qualifications approved by CETA
Students at undergraduate and postgraduate level may apply, provided they meet all requirements.
Who Is Eligible to Apply?
To qualify for the CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary 2026, applicants must meet all of the following criteria:
Useful Links:
- Be a South African citizen
- Be currently unemployed
- Intend to study a built-environment qualification
- Be registered or accepted at a public university or university of technology
- Have a minimum academic average of 50%
- Come from a household with a total annual income of less than R600,000
Applicants who fail to meet any of these requirements will be disqualified, so it is important to review eligibility carefully before applying.
Required Supporting Documents
Applicants must upload clear, certified copies of all required documents via the online system.
Documents Checklist:
- South African ID document
- Matric certificate or latest Grade 12 results (first-year applicants)
- Latest academic transcript (returning students)
- Official university acceptance or registration letter
- Parents’ or guardians’ ID documents
- Proof of household income (payslips or sworn affidavits)
- Signed affidavit confirming unemployment status
Important: Blurred, incomplete, or incorrect documents are a common reason for rejection.
How to Apply for the CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary 2026
All applications must be submitted online only through the official CETA INDICIUM platform.
Application link:
https://indicium.ceta.org.za/Pages/OnlineRegistration/OnlineBursaryRegistration.aspx
Application Deadline:
30 January 2026 at midnight
Late applications, email submissions, and hand-delivered applications will not be accepted.
Important Things to Know Before You Apply
- The bursary is awarded for the 2026 academic year only
- Only students studying at public institutions are eligible
- Incomplete applications are automatically rejected
- All documents must be uploaded on the INDICIUM system
- Selection is competitive and subject to available funding
Applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid technical issues close to the deadline.
Enquiries and Official Contact Details
For verified information and application support, contact CETA directly:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: www.ceta.org.za
Always rely on official channels to avoid misinformation.
Why the Thapelo Madibeng Bursary Is Important
South Africa faces an ongoing shortage of skilled professionals in construction, engineering, and planning. Infrastructure development, housing delivery, and urban growth depend on qualified built-environment specialists.
The CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary Scheme addresses this skills gap by supporting unemployed youth and enabling access to higher education. It also promotes transformation and inclusive growth by prioritising students from financially constrained households.
For many applicants, this bursary is not just financial assistance—it is a pathway to long-term employability and career stability.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is the CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary fully funded?
Yes. It covers tuition, accommodation, study materials, allowances, and other approved costs.
Can unemployed graduates apply?
Yes, provided they meet the eligibility criteria and are studying an approved built-environment qualification.
Can I apply without a university acceptance letter?
No. Proof of acceptance or registration at a public institution is required.
Does CETA fund private colleges?
No. Only public universities and universities of technology are eligible.
When will results be communicated?
Shortlisted applicants are usually contacted after the closing date, subject to CETA’s internal selection process.
Final Thoughts
The CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursaries 2026 represent a high-impact opportunity for unemployed South Africans who want to study in architecture, engineering, construction, and related fields. With full financial support and a strong focus on national skills development, this bursary can change the course of your academic and professional future.
If you meet the requirements, apply before 30 January 2026 and take the next step toward a career in the built-environment sector.