Vhembe District Mayoral Bursary Fund

1. 1

   Confirm the current application window is open by checking the Vhembe District Municipality website (www.vhembe.gov.za)

2. 2

   Download the official Mayoral Bursary application form from www.vhembe.gov.za, or collect it from one of the four local municipal offices (Musina, Makhado, Thulamela or Collins Chabane)

3. 3

   Complete the application form in full

4. 4

   Attach all certified supporting documents, including proof of residence within the Vhembe District, proof of registration/acceptance and proof of parents' income

5. 5

   Submit the completed application before the published closing date - the 2026 cycle is reported to close 23 January 2026 (prior cycles closed late January, e.g. 24/25 January 2025 and 25 January 2024)

6. 6

   Submit physically or by post to: The Municipal Manager, Private Bag X5006, Thohoyandou, 0950

7. 7

   Verify the exact 2026 closing date directly with the municipality, as late or incomplete applications are not considered

Frequently Asked Questions

Who qualifies for the Vhembe District Mayoral Bursary?

You must be a South African citizen who resides within the Vhembe District in Limpopo, come from a financially disadvantaged background with demonstrable financial need, and have completed Matric or be a current tertiary student showing academic progress (2025 matriculants are eligible for the 2026 cycle). You must also be accepted or provisionally accepted at a recognised, accredited tertiary institution and be able to demonstrate academic potential.

What does the bursary cover?

It is awarded either as a 'sponsorship' or a fuller 'scholarship'. The sponsorship supplements other funding and covers tuition fees, prescribed books and course materials. The scholarship covers full tuition, prescribed books, course material, meals and residence/accommodation/transport expenses. A specific rand value is not officially published, and the fund supports both Diploma and Bachelor's degree study.

Is there a work-back obligation?

Yes. After graduating, recipients must work for the Vhembe District Municipality for a period equal to the duration of the bursary, or repay the total amount awarded with interest. The exact terms are set out in the bursary agreement you sign.

How and when do I apply?

Download the Mayoral Bursary application form from www.vhembe.gov.za or collect it from one of the four local municipal offices (Musina, Makhado, Thulamela or Collins Chabane), then submit it with certified documents to The Municipal Manager, Private Bag X5006, Thohoyandou, 0950. The 2026 cycle is reported to close on 23 January 2026, with prior cycles closing in late January. Always confirm the exact deadline with the municipality each year, as late or incomplete applications are not considered.