Website Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA)
The Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) is a statutory body established in terms of the Mine Health and Safety Act No. 29 of 1996 and is a registered Sector Education and Training Authority for the Mining and Minerals Sector in terms of the Skills development Act No 97 of 1998.
Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) invites suitable students to apply for Bursary Programme 2026.
The Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) Bursary Programme is a strategic initiative aimed at financially needy and academically deserving South African students who wish to pursue careers in the mining and minerals sector. The programme supports full-time studies at public institutions across the country and focuses on fields critical to the sustainability and development of the industry.
Fields of Study Funded by MQA
At universities and universities of technology:
- Metallurgical Engineering
- Mining Engineering
- Analytical Chemistry
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Geology
- Mine Surveying
- Occupational Health and Safety
- Occupational Hygiene
- Environmental Health and Management
- Environmental Science
- Operations Management
- Occupational Medicine
- Quality Management
- Jewellery Design and Manufacturing
- Electro-Mechanical Engineering
At TVET colleges:
- Boilermaker
- Electrician
- Welder
- Plumber
- Carpenter and Joiner
- Rigger Ropesman
- Mechanic (Diesel & Automotive)
- Millwright
- Pipe Fitter
- Fitter and Turner
- Instrumentation Mechanic
- Mechatronics
- Mechanical Fitter
- Bricklayer
This wide selection ensures a sustainable pipeline of skilled professionals throughout the mining value chain.
Who Can Apply?
The MQA Bursary is open to:
- South African citizens
- Grade 12 learners, unemployed youth, and current full-time students
- Individuals pursuing or intending to pursue MQA-funded qualifications
- Historically Disadvantaged Individuals (HDI)
- Applicants with a combined household income of not more than R600,000 per annum
- Female students and people with disabilities
- Students from rural and mining communities
- Students with strong academic performance
- Applicants studying within the Sectoral Priority Occupations Interventions (SPOI) list
What the MQA Bursary Covers
Successful recipients may receive comprehensive support including:
- Full tuition fees
- Accommodation and meals
- Prescribed textbooks and materials
- Monthly living allowance
- Travel costs (where applicable)
This allows students to focus fully on their academic journey.
How to Apply
Interested applicants must prepare and submit:
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified copies of academic results
- Proof of household income
- Proof of university/college acceptance (or provisional acceptance)