SARF bursary 2026 applications are now open, offering funding support to students pursuing careers in South Africa’s road transport, logistics, and infrastructure sector.
The South African Road Federation is focusing on building high-level skills in engineering, transport systems, and policy. This bursary is designed to support students who want to specialise in areas that are critical for national development.
Unlike many bursaries, SARF encourages postgraduate study, making this a strong option for students aiming for advanced technical or policy careers.
Bursary Highlights
| Key Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme | SARF Bursary Programme 2026 |
| Organisation | South African Road Federation |
| Funding Type | Supplementary bursary |
| Study Level | Diploma, Degree, Postgraduate |
| Coverage | Partial funding |
| Institutions | South African universities and Universities of Technology |
| Closing Date | 31 August 2026 |
Why This Bursary Matters
South Africa continues to invest in roads, transport systems, and logistics infrastructure.
This bursary supports skills in:
- Engineering and infrastructure development
- Transport planning and logistics
- Economic modelling and policy
- Road safety and traffic systems
These skills are needed in:
- Government infrastructure projects
- Engineering firms
- Transport and logistics companies
- Policy and planning institutions
About the SARF Bursary Programme
The SARF bursary is a supplementary funding programme. This means it is designed to support students who already have partial funding or need additional financial support.
Funding is determined per student and paid directly to the institution.
The programme strongly supports postgraduate studies such as MSc and MTech, especially in specialised infrastructure fields.
Fields Covered
Road Engineering (Civil)
- Traffic engineering
- Transportation planning
- Pavement and bridge engineering
- Construction materials and management
- Environmental and stormwater engineering
Road Transport Management
- Logistics coordination
- Fleet operations
- Transport systems optimisation
- Freight planning
Transport Economics
- Infrastructure investment analysis
- Transport policy development
- Cost-benefit modelling
- Freight corridor planning
Road Safety Engineering
- Accident prevention systems
- Traffic flow design
- Smart road technologies
- Highway safety assessments
Who Should Apply
You should apply if you are:
- Studying civil engineering with a transport focus
- Studying logistics or transport management
- Studying transport economics
- Studying road safety engineering
- Planning postgraduate studies in infrastructure
Minimum Requirements
Diploma Students
Must have passed Semester 1
Degree Students
Must have passed first year
Postgraduate Students
Preference is given to MSc, MTech, and advanced research students
Institution Requirements
Applicants must:
- Study at a recognised South African institution
- Be endorsed by their academic institution
- Provide proof of enrolment
- Show academic performance
- Demonstrate programme suitability
Funding Coverage
This is a supplementary bursary, meaning:
- Funding amount varies per student
- Determined by SARF Council
- Paid directly to your institution
- Covers part of your study costs
You are encouraged to combine this bursary with:
- NSFAS
- University bursaries
- SETA funding
- Employer sponsorship
Selection Preference
Preference will be given to applicants who:
- Have strong academic performance
- Plan to work in the transport sector
- Are linked to SARF member organisations
- Show commitment to infrastructure development
South African applicants are prioritised, but SADC students may also apply
Important Requirement
You must show commitment to working in South Africa’s road transport sector after completing your studies
Required Documents
Prepare the following:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Academic transcripts
- Proof of registration
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Motivation letter
- Institutional endorsement letter
How to Apply
Request and submit your application form through SARF.
Submit to:
South African Road Federation
48 Gladiator Street
Rhodesfield
Kempton Park, 1619
Postal Address:
PO Box 8379
Birchleigh, 1621
Contact:
Telephone: 011 394 9025 / 011 394 1459
Email: sybul@sarf.org.za
Important Notes
- Applications close on 31 August 2026
- Late applications will not be accepted
- Ensure all documents are complete before submission