South African unemployed students can now apply for the 2026 THAPELO MADIBENG CETA Bursary Scheme . Full financial support for tuition, textbooks, accommodation, and more for built-environment studies at public institutions.
2026 CETA THE THAPELO MADIBENG Bursary Scheme – Applications Now Open
Are you a South African student aspiring to study towards a built-environment qualification but struggling with financial constraints? The 2026 CETA THE THAPELO MADIBENG bursary scheme could be the opportunity you’ve been waiting for. This bursary is designed to provide financial support to unemployed South African students who wish to pursue higher education in the built-environment sector.
In this article, we will cover all the essential details about the CETA THE THAPELO MADIBENG bursary scheme 2026, including eligibility criteria, benefits, required documents, application process, and key dates.
What is the 2026 CETA THE THAPELO MADIBENG Bursary Scheme?
The Construction Education and Training Authority (CETA), in partnership with the Thapelo Madibeng Bursary Initiative, offers this bursary to provide financial assistance to unemployed students in South Africa. The primary goal is to enable young talent to gain qualifications in the built-environment sector, contributing to the development of South Africa’s construction industry.
The bursary covers essential educational expenses to ensure students can focus fully on their studies without financial stress.
Who Can Apply for the CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary 2026?
This bursary specifically targets unemployed South African students intending to study at public institutions of higher learning within South Africa. Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- South African citizen
- Currently unemployed
- Intending to study towards a built-environment qualification at a South African public institution
- Achieved a minimum overall average of 50%
- Total household income of less than R600 000 per annum
Meeting these requirements is crucial for consideration, so ensure your documentation is complete and accurate before submitting your application.
What Does the Bursary Cover?
The 2026 CETA THE THAPELO MADIBENG bursary scheme provides financial support for several educational and living expenses, including:
- Tuition fees – Full coverage of academic fees for your chosen qualification
- Prescribed textbooks – Ensuring students have access to required study materials
- Accommodation and meals – Supporting students who need to live away from home
- Transport fees (with conditions) – Assistance for travel to and from your institution
- Research allowance – Available only for Master’s and PhD students to support their research work
By covering these essential costs, the bursary removes major financial barriers and allows students to focus entirely on their studies.
Mandatory Documents for Application
Applicants must submit the following documents to be considered for the bursary:
- Certified ID Copy
- Matric Certificate/Statement of Results (for first-year applicants)
- Latest tertiary academic record (for second or subsequent years)
- Proof of acceptance from your tertiary institution (for first-year and returning students)
- Certified Parents’/Guardians’ ID documents
- Parents’/Guardians’ proof of income (latest payslip or affidavit if unemployed)
- Affidavit as proof of unemployment
It is essential to ensure that all documents are certified, clear, and legible. Incomplete or unclear applications may be disqualified.
How to Apply for the 2026 CETA THE THAPELO MADIBENG Bursary Scheme
The application process for the bursary is fully online through the INDICIUM platform. Please note that applications submitted via email will not be considered. Follow these steps to apply successfully:
- Visit the official CETA website at www.ceta.org.za
- Click on the INDICIUM portal
- Navigate to the Bursary Application section
- Complete the online registration form
- Upload all required documents
- Submit your application before the closing date
Important Dates to Remember
- Opening Date: 05 January 2026 | 08:00 AM
- Closing Date: 30 January 2026 | 00:00 AM
Late applications will not be considered, so ensure you submit your documents on time.
Tips for a Successful Application
To improve your chances of being awarded the bursary, follow these tips:
- Start early – Prepare all documents in advance and double-check for completeness
- Certify all copies – Ensure all ID copies and academic records are certified
- Provide clear proof of unemployment – This is a key eligibility criterion
- Double-check household income documentation – Submit accurate payslips or affidavits
- Follow instructions carefully – Use the INDICIUM platform as instructed, and avoid sending applications via email
Benefits of the CETA Thapelo Madibeng Bursary
The bursary not only provides financial support but also offers other benefits for students:
- Focus on education: By covering tuition, accommodation, and transport, students can dedicate their time fully to studies
- Reduce financial stress: Families with limited income can access this opportunity without worrying about costs
- Career growth in the construction sector: Students can gain qualifications that open doors to employment opportunities in the built-environment sector
- Access to research funding: Master’s and PhD students can benefit from research allowances to further their studies
Contact Information and Support
For any enquiries regarding the 2026 CETA THE THAPELO MADIBENG bursary scheme, applicants can reach out to the bursary team:
- Email: unemployedbursary@ceta.co.za
- Official CETA website: www.ceta.org.za
- Social Media:
- Twitter: @CETASkillsDev
- Instagram: Constructionseta_official
- Facebook: CETA_Official
Always ensure you communicate through official channels to avoid scams or misinformation.
CareersFocus.co.za Disclaimer
CareersFocus.co.za provides information on bursaries, learnerships, and training programs for educational purposes. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, all applications and selection processes are managed solely by the relevant organizations. CareersFocus.co.za is not responsible for application outcomes, eligibility decisions, or changes to bursary requirements. Applicants should confirm details directly with the bursary provider.

Final Thoughts
The 2026 CETA THE THAPELO MADIBENG bursary scheme is a life-changing opportunity for unemployed South African students who want to pursue a qualification in the built-environment sector. With full financial support for tuition, accommodation, textbooks, transport, and research, this bursary can help you achieve your academic and career goals.
If you meet the eligibility requirements, prepare your documents carefully, and submit your application via the INDICIUM platform before 30 January 2026, you could be on your way to a bright future in South Africa’s construction and built-environment industry.
Start your application today and take the first step toward building your career with the 2026 CETA THE THAPELO MADIBENG bursary scheme.
Apply here now: https://indicium.ceta.org.za/Pages/OnlineRegistration/OnlineBursaryRegistration.aspx

Karabo Ntswaki – Author of CareersFocus.co.za
Karabo Ntswaki is passionate about empowering South Africans with reliable, verified, and easily accessible information about careers and education. Through CareersFocus.co.za, Karabo’s mission is to support students, job seekers, and young professionals by providing accurate guidance on learnerships, internships, bursaries, scholarships, and educational resources.
Her vision is to make CareersFocus.co.za the most trusted online source in South Africa for career and educational information, helping individuals overcome barriers, make informed decisions, and achieve their personal and professional goals.
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