The JB Marks Education Trust Fund has extended the application deadline for its 2026 academic year bursary programme, giving eligible applicants additional time to submit their applications. The new closing date is 31 July 2026, replacing the previous deadline.
The bursary is aimed at members of the National Union of Mineworkers and their immediate dependents, including spouses and children. Funding is available for both undergraduate and postgraduate studies at recognised South African public universities, universities of technology and colleges.
In addition to covering key study costs, the Trust also provides academic support services designed to help students succeed throughout their studies.
Programme Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary | JB Marks Education Trust Fund Bursary 2026 |
| Closing Date | 31 July 2026 (Extended) |
| Target Applicants | NUM members and their immediate dependents |
| Study Level | Undergraduate and Postgraduate |
| Institutions | Recognised South African public universities, universities of technology and colleges |
| Funding Covers | Tuition, accommodation, prescribed books, mentoring and tutoring |
| Application Method | Online |
| Funding Restriction | Applicants may not receive other external funding |
Bursary Supports Higher Education for NUM Families
The JB Marks Education Trust Fund was established by the National Union of Mineworkers to support access to higher education for union members and their families.
The bursary assists eligible students pursuing undergraduate and postgraduate qualifications at approved public higher education institutions in South Africa. According to the Trust, the programme aims to empower beneficiaries through education and provide financial assistance throughout their studies.
What the Bursary Covers
Successful applicants may receive funding for:
- Tuition fees
- Student accommodation
- Prescribed textbooks
- Academic mentoring
- Tutoring and additional academic support
The Trust provides these benefits to help students focus on completing their qualifications successfully.
Who Can Apply?
Applicants must meet the following general requirements:
- Be a paid-up member of the National Union of Mineworkers, or a qualifying former member where applicable, or be an immediate dependent (child or spouse) of an eligible NUM member.
- Apply for an undergraduate or postgraduate qualification.
- Study at a recognised South African public university, university of technology or college.
- Not receive funding from another external bursary or sponsor.
Required Supporting Documents
Prospective applicants should prepare:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Academic records or latest results
- Proof of registration or acceptance at a tertiary institution
- Proof of household income or proof of dependency on a NUM member
Applicants should ensure all required documentation is submitted to avoid delays in processing.
Duties and Responsibilities
Successful bursary recipients are expected to:
- Maintain their registration at an approved institution.
- Use the bursary for approved educational expenses.
- Comply with the Trust’s bursary conditions.
The source information does not provide additional recipient responsibilities.
Benefits and Skills Gained
Besides financial assistance, beneficiaries receive academic support through mentoring and tutoring.
Completing a recognised undergraduate or postgraduate qualification can help graduates strengthen:
- Academic knowledge
- Professional skills
- Critical thinking
- Career readiness
- Employability within their chosen field
Programme Outcomes
The bursary supports students in completing recognised higher education qualifications.
Graduates may pursue careers relevant to the qualifications obtained, although the Trust does not restrict funding to a single field of study in the information provided.
How to Apply
Eligible applicants can complete the application online by following these steps:
- Visit the official JB Marks Education Trust Fund application portal.
- Create an account or sign in to the application system.
- Complete the online application form.
- Upload all required supporting documents.
- Review the application carefully.
- Submit the application before 31 July 2026.
Application Tips
- Apply well before the closing date.
- Ensure certified documents are clear and valid.
- Confirm that you are not receiving another external bursary.
- Double-check that all required supporting documents have been uploaded.
- Keep copies of your application and supporting documents for your records.
Where to Apply
Applicants should apply only through the official platforms:
- JB Marks Education Trust Fund Online Application Portal (BrightSparc Login)
- JB Marks Education Trust Fund Official Website
Closing Date
31 July 2026 (Extended). Applications submitted after the deadline may not be considered.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is eligible for the JB Marks Education Trust Fund Bursary?
The bursary is available to eligible NUM members and their immediate dependents, including children and spouses.
Which institutions are supported?
Funding is available for recognised South African public universities, universities of technology and colleges.
What expenses does the bursary cover?
The bursary covers tuition, accommodation, prescribed books, mentoring and tutoring.
Can I apply if I already receive another bursary?
No. Applicants must not receive any other external funding.
How do I submit my application?
Applications must be submitted online through the official JB Marks Education Trust Fund application portal.
When is the closing date?
The application deadline has been extended to 31 July 2026.
Editorial Policy
This article is based on official information published by the JB Marks Education Trust Fund regarding its 2026 bursary programme. Information has been presented accurately and objectively, without speculation or the inclusion of unverified claims.
Sources and References
- JB Marks Education Trust Fund Official Website
- JB Marks Education Trust Fund Online Application Portal (BrightSparc)
- JB Marks Education Trust Fund Official Facebook Announcement
