MQA Bursary 2025: Requirements & Application Tips

The Mining Qualifications Authority (MQA) was established under the Mine Health and Safety Act No. 29 of 1996. This organisation focuses on the crucial aspect of education and training for South Africa’s mining and minerals sector employees. The main goal of MQA is to improve the mining industry by providing skills development programmes.

These programmes aim to make sure that the mining sector has the necessary skills to boost job opportunities, improve health and safety standards, and increase productivity. The MQA bursary helps create a more diverse and inclusive workforce, promotes safer working practices and keeps the industry competitive and strong by offering training and support. These efforts by MQA play a vital role in shaping a better future for the mining and minerals sector in South Africa.

In this article, we will discuss the requirements, eligibility, documentation and more about the MQA Bursary 2025.

Fields Covered by MQA Bursary 2025

The Mining Qualifications Authority (MAQ) has announced its opening for the 2025 academic year. MQA is offering 2 types of bursaries: Unemployed Bursaries, with 700 available, and Employed Bursaries, with 70 available. Applicants pursuing the following disciplines are encouraged to apply:

University and University of Technology students

1. Analytical Chemistry
2. Chemical Engineering
3. Electrical Engineering
4. Electro-Mechanical Engineering
5. Environmental Health and Management
6. Geology
7. Industrial Engineering
8. Jewellery Design and Manufacturing
9. Mechanical Engineering
10. Metallurgical Engineering
11. Mine Survey
12. Mining Engineering
13. Occupational Health and Safety
14. Occupational Hygiene
15. Occupational Medicine
16. Operations Management
17. Quality Management

Technical Vocational Education and Training (TVET) College students

1. Boilermaker
2. Electrician
3. Fitter and Turner
4. Fitting (including Machinery)
5. Instrumentation Mechanic
6. Millwright
7. Motor Mechanic (Diesel)
8. Rigger Ropes Man

MQA Bursary Monthly Allowance

The bursary will include support for tuition fees, book fees, accommodation, and a meal allowance. This all-inclusive assistance aims to help students cover their academic and living costs as they progress their educational path.

MQA Bursary Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must ensure they meet the following minimum entry criteria before beginning the application process. Candidates must note that failure to satisfy ALL of these requirements will result in your application being rejected.

• Applicant must be a citizen of South Africa.
• You need to be in Matric currently or have already passed Matric.
• Candidates must be currently pursuing or planning to pursue an Undergraduate degree in one of the specified fields of study (funding for postgraduate studies is not available).
• You must be studying or intend to study at a public University, University of Technology, or TVET College in South Africa.
• Candidates must be unemployed and remain unemployed throughout their studies.

Read more about the Bursary Application process.

Preference will be given to:

• Female candidates
• Applicants who live in rural areas
• Candidates who have applied to study at a local college or university
• Aspirants who have a total household income of less than R600,000 per year and are experiencing financial difficulties.
• Applicants who have a strong academic record
• Economically disadvantaged individuals

How To Apply Online for MQA Bursary?

Applications must be submitted online at: MQA Bursary Application 2025

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you apply for the MQA Unemployed Learners Bursary. These steps will help you complete your MQA Unemployed Learners Bursary application smoothly. You can also contact the MQA personnel listed for your institution for more information.

• Step 1: Go to the MQA website and download the MQA 2025 Unemployed Bursary Application Form.
• Step 2: Complete the application form with all the required details and save it with your full name and surname.
• Step 3: Make sure you have all the documents listed in the application form (Listed above in this article).
• Step 4: Attach the completed application form and all required documents together.
• Step 5: Email your application and documents to bursaries@mqa.org.za. The subject line should include your full name, surname, and ID number.
• Step 6: Make sure to submit your application before the deadline.

MQA will review your application and inform selected candidates.

What Are The MQA Bursary Requirements?

The MQA (Mining Qualifications Authority) Bursary Programme helps students pursue mining and minerals-related fields. To qualify for this bursary, applicants must meet these requirements:

Unemployed Candidates

The MQA Bursary is awarded to economically disadvantaged individuals who have a good academic background but require financial assistance to complete their studies. Female applicants, individuals residing in rural areas, and applicants of local institutions are given special consideration. Academic excellence is one of the crucial factors in the selection process. The bursary is provided every year as long as the student remains enroled. It is also reviewed and revised every year.

Employed Candidates

Individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds working in the mining and minerals sector have the opportunity to apply for financial aid and pursue a qualification in relation to the mining sector. The bursary includes complete tuition coverage and gives book allowances for each semester.

Documentation Requirements

When submitting your completed application form, make sure to include clear copies of the required supporting documents. Submitting these documents is mandatory; not including any items could result in your application being disqualified.

Here’s a list of documents that you require to complete the application process:

• Certified copy of your ID document
• Certified copy of your Grade 11 final report or Matric mid-year report (if currently in Matric)
• Proof of acceptance at a University, University of Technology, or TVET College for 2025 (on the institution’s letterhead, if currently in Matric)
• Certified copy of your Matric certificate (if completed Matric)
• Complete academic transcript from a tertiary institution (must be on official letterhead if currently enrolled)
• Official copies of the ID documents belonging to the parents or guardians.
• Proof of parent’s or guardian’s household income:

1. Latest payslips if employed
2. Affidavit if unemployed
3. Affidavit if not in contact with one or more parent
4. Proof of SASSA payment if applicable
5. Death certificate if deceased

What Is MQA Bursary Closing Date?

The closing date for MQA Bursary is 21st September 2024. Accordingly, applicants must ensure that they check the official website of MQA Bursary regularly to confirm the closing date for the application cycle.

Applications submitted after this date will not be accepted. Please apply before the closing date to ensure your application is considered.

MQA Bursary Contact Detail

For any questions regarding this bursary program, please reach out directly to your nearest MQA regional office:

Conclusion

The MQA Bursary provides a chance for ambitious aspirants in the mining and minerals industry in South Africa. Through offering extensive financial aid and specific skills training, MQA not only promotes excellence in academics but also encourages a dynamic and all-inclusive workforce. This financial aid programme improves safety, productivity, and competitiveness in the sector, guaranteeing its long-term benefits. By prioritising education and empowerment, MQA plays a crucial part in moulding a better future for both the mining industry and the country.

For personalised guidance on bursary quotations, contact Regenesys expert guidance counsellors. We are here to help you effectively with your educational and financial aid options.

MQA Bursary 2025 – FAQs