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eThekwini Opens 2026 Student Relief Fund for New Students

Published

1 day ago

January 9, 2026

Chiraag

eThekwini Student Relief Fund, Durban student funding, university registration support, TVET college funding KZN, higher education assistance, Joburg ETC

A lifeline for students still locked out of funding

For many young people in Durban and surrounding areas, getting accepted into a university or TVET college is only half the battle. The bigger hurdle often comes next: how to pay for registration and tuition when no other funding is available.

That is where the 2026 eThekwini Municipal Student Relief Fund steps in. The fund has officially opened applications, giving eligible residents a chance to secure financial support for their first year of undergraduate study.

Managed by the eThekwini Municipality, the programme is aimed at first-time students who have already been accepted into public higher education institutions but have no financial backing in place.

Who the fund is really meant for

The relief fund is strictly reserved for South African citizens who are permanent residents within the eThekwini municipal area. Applicants must be admitted to a recognised public university or TVET college for a full-time qualification approved by the Department of Higher Education and Training.

Household income is a key factor. To qualify, the total annual household income must be below R200,000. Academic performance also matters, as applicants must meet the entry requirements for their chosen course.

There is some flexibility for distance learning students. Those enrolled at Unisa may be considered, provided they are not currently employed.

In line with transformation goals, priority will be given to students who are underrepresented in terms of race, gender, and disability.

What the funding covers and what it does not

The Student Relief Fund focuses on the most immediate barrier to registration. It covers registration fees and may offer limited assistance towards tuition costs.

However, students should plan carefully. The fund does not cover accommodation, meals, textbooks, transport, or other daily study expenses. For many families, this means combining the relief fund with other support options where possible.

How and where to apply

Application forms are available in person from Sizakala Centres that house Human Resources Centre of Excellence offices. Forms can also be collected from the EMA Offices on the fourth floor of the Standard Bank Building at 26 Matthews Meyiwa Street.

Completed applications must be submitted with all required documents, including proof of admission, academic results, identity documents for both student and parent or guardian, proof of income or an affidavit, and proof of residence.

The closing date for applications is Friday, 16 January 2026. Applicants who do not receive feedback within ten weeks of the closing date should assume their application was unsuccessful.

Why this fund matters in Durban right now

KwaZulu-Natal continues to see growing demand for higher education, while funding options remain limited and highly competitive. On social media, many local students and parents have welcomed the opening of the fund, describing it as a crucial backup when national schemes are unavailable or delayed.

The relief fund may not cover every cost, but for students facing the possibility of losing their place due to unpaid registration fees, it can make the difference between sitting at home and stepping onto campus.