By Ontonda Teczo | December 21, 2025
Apply for the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) Bursaries 2026. Funding available for engineering, IT, law, finance and more. Closing 23 Dec 2025.
Many students are encouraged to apply for the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) Bursaries 2026, as they offer a vital opportunity for those pursuing careers in crucial sectors.
For many South African students, the dream of studying further often clashes with a harsh reality: tuition fees, accommodation costs, and transport expenses are simply out of reach. Even students with good marks can find themselves forced to delay or abandon their studies because funding is not available.
The Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) Bursaries 2026 aim to fill skills gaps in the railway and public safety sectors.
The Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) Bursary Programme 2026 offers meaningful support to students who want to study in fields linked to safety, engineering, governance, and essential public services. With applications closing on 23 December 2025, eligible learners have a limited window to apply for this opportunity.
What the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) Bursaries 2026 Is About
The Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) is a national public entity established under the Railway Safety Act, 2024 (Act No. 30 of 2024). Its role is to regulate, promote, and enforce railway safety across South Africa, including cross-border railway operations.
Beyond regulation, the RSR invests in skills development to ensure the country has qualified professionals who can support safe, efficient, and well-governed railway systems in the future.
The RSR Bursary Programme 2026 forms part of this commitment. It supports students pursuing undergraduate studies at:
- TVET Colleges
- Universities of Technology
- Public Universities
- Registered Private Higher Education Institutions
The bursary focuses on qualifications that align directly with the RSR’s operational and regulatory needs.
Fields of Study Funded by the RSR Bursary 2026
The RSR bursary does not fund all qualifications. Instead, it focuses on disciplines that contribute to infrastructure safety, compliance, governance, and organisational sustainability.
The fields supported by the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) Bursaries 2026 are essential for the country’s growth.
Students may apply if they are studying (or plan to study) in one of the following fields:
- Electrical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Information Technology
- Human Resources Management
- Media and Communications
- Law
- Financial Management
- Internal Audit
- Supply Chain Management
- Risk Management
These fields reflect skills shortages in both the railway sector and the broader public service.
Who Can Apply for the RSR Bursary 2026?
The bursary is designed for young South Africans who need financial support to study and are prepared to commit to their academic responsibilities.
To be eligible, applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a South African citizen aged 15 to 35 years
- Not be receiving funding from another bursary or sponsor
- Be eligible to study the chosen qualification at a recognised institution
- Be willing to attend an interview if shortlisted
- Be willing to sign a Bursary Agreement if selected
Academic Requirements
- First-year applicants must submit:
- Grade 11 results, or
- Grade 12 mid-term results
- A minimum 65% average
- Current tertiary students must submit their latest academic record
Applicants must also provide proof of admission or registration for the academic year they are applying for.
Documents Required for the RSR Bursary Application
Applicants must ensure that all supporting documents are complete, clear, and recently certified. Missing documents may lead to disqualification.
Required documents include:
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Certified copy of admission or registration letter
- Certified copy of latest academic record (if already studying)
- Certified copy of Grade 11 or Grade 12 mid-term results (for matric learners)
- Motivation letter explaining why you deserve the bursary
- Official quotation of tuition fees for the academic year
All documents must be submitted online before the closing date.
How to Apply for the Railway Safety Regulator Bursary 2026
Applications for the RSR Bursary Programme 2026 must be completed online.
Students can apply through the official RSR bursary portal:
👉 Apply for the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) Bursary Programme 2026
🔗 https://www.rsr.org.za/careers
Applications close on 23 December 2025. Late submissions will not be considered.
Useful Links
Why This Bursary Matters for Young South Africans
Access to education remains one of the biggest challenges facing young people in South Africa. Many students come from households where income is uncertain, and even basic study costs can become overwhelming.
The RSR bursary helps reduce this burden by supporting students in practical, in-demand fields that can lead to stable careers. It also plays a role in strengthening safety standards and professional capacity within the country’s railway sector.
For students who want to study but lack financial support, this bursary represents a realistic pathway forward.
Important Notes Before You Apply
- Incomplete applications will not be considered
- The RSR reserves the right not to award bursaries
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
- Personal information is protected under POPIA (Act 4 of 2013)
Applicants are encouraged to apply early to avoid technical or document-related delays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I apply if I am still in matric?
Yes. Matric learners may apply using Grade 11 results or Grade 12 mid-term results, provided they meet the minimum academic requirements.
2. Can I apply if I already have another bursary?
No. Applicants must not be receiving funding from another bursary or sponsor.
3. Is the bursary only for engineering students?
No. The bursary covers multiple fields, including law, finance, IT, HR, communications, and risk management.
4. Do I need to be accepted at a university before applying?
Yes. Proof of admission or registration for the relevant academic year is required.
5. What happens after I apply?
Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews. Final decisions are communicated directly to successful applicants.
Final Thoughts
The Railway Safety Regulator Bursary Programme 2026 offers more than financial assistance. It provides students with a chance to study in fields that contribute to national safety, infrastructure development, and public service excellence.
With the closing date set for 23 December 2025, students who meet the requirements should prepare their documents and apply as soon as possible.
For many, this bursary could be the support that turns academic potential into a real future.
Applying for the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) Bursaries 2026 can significantly impact your academic and professional journey.
The Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) Bursaries 2026 are vital for fostering talent in South Africa.
Many students rely on the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) Bursaries 2026 to complete their studies.
With the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) Bursaries 2026, students can pursue meaningful careers.
The Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) Bursaries 2026 provide pathways into essential public service roles.
Students should take advantage of the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) Bursaries 2026 opportunity.
