The City of Cape Town plays a significant role in providing basic services such as building plan applications and documents, drainage, electricity, municipal roads, etc.
The City also provides financial support to individuals who want to pursue their studies in a field that has been predetermined and advertised by the City as being part of the Scarce Skills List 2022/23.
The term scarce skills refers to a skill set or qualifications that not enough people have available to do related jobs in respective industries, and City is providing such bursaries to meet its current demand. Prior to applying for this bursary, applicants need to take note of the following:
- External financial bursaries are only open to residents of South Africa, who live within the Cape Metropolitan Area
- Prospective applicants must not be in possession of any other form of financial assistance (e.g. National Student Financial Aid Scheme).
- Applicants are required to submit a certified copy of their ID (not older than three months)
- Grade 12 learners ought to provide a copy of their Grade 12 / mid-year results (65% average)
- If enrolled as a full-time student at an approved tertiary institution, then the applicant will need to provide their first-, second- and/or third-year academic transcript copies.
- Proof of financial status (affidavit of parent or guardian's payslips or social grant slips)
According to the City, applicants have the option of either downloading the application form from its official website or collecting one from the nearest City library. Application forms are also available at various City facilities as well.
HOW TO APPLY
Full details are available on the City of Cape Town website.
Closing date 17th August 2026.
Supporting documentation includes a registration letter or provisional acceptance letter from your approved tertiary institution, matric certificate, any recommendations from teachers for matric learners, awards/certificates, two contactable references, certified copy of your ID and that of your parent / guardian, proof of residence, payslip/certified proof of social grant (if applicable).
Once the application has been submitted, applicants will need to await for the City to communicate the outcome of the bursary application.
Individuals who reside outside the City of Cape Town may apply for various funding opportunities that are available through a number of organisations.
