The Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) Bursary is now open for applications closing on 23 December 2025. RSR is South Africa’s rail network with cutting-edge engineering, airtight legal frameworks, or smart IT systems that keep millions of journeys safe. This bursary programme helps the RSR to achieve its goal to build a safer, more efficient railway system by investing in tomorrow’s leaders like you to make it happen.
About the Railway Safety Regulator (RSR)
The South African National Railway Safety Regulator Act of 2002 (Act 16 of 2002, as amended) led to the establishment railway watchdog. The objective is to make sure that every train, track, and crossing meets world-class safety standards. RSR enforces compliance, investigates incidents, and drives innovation across the nation’s 20,000+ km of rail.
The RSR bursary scheme helps this watchdog to tackle skills shortages but also to create pathways for young South Africans to join this vital industry.
Railway Safety Regulator (RSR) Application Process
Applications for the 2026 academic year are currently open and will close on 23 December 2025. You must apply by downloading the form that appears in the “How To Apply” section of this article.
Expenses Covered by the Railway Safety Regulator Bursary
This isn’t a partial handout – the RSR Bursary is a complete game-changer, covering:
- 100% of tuition and registration fees at accredited South African institutions
- Comfortable on-campus or approved accommodation
- A generous monthly stipend for daily living
- All essential textbooks, stationery, and digital resources
- Travel allowances for those commuting to study sites
RSR bursary holders stand a chance to get vacation work placements at RSR offices which gives them real-world exposure to rail safety projects.
Fields of Study Covered
The RSR is laser-focused on disciplines that directly boost railway safety and operations. For 2026, they’re prioritizing full-time undergraduate, Honours, or Master’s studies in these high-demand areas:
- Engineering Streams: Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Industrial – think designing unbreakable bridges or electrified systems.
- Information Technology: Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Software Development – safeguarding digital rail controls.
- Finance & Accounting: For budgeting safety upgrades and auditing compliance.
- Human Resources Management: Building diverse, skilled teams in transport.
- Law: Specializing in regulatory affairs or transport legislation.
- Supply Chain & Risk Management: Optimizing logistics while minimizing hazards.
- Media & Communications: Crafting public awareness campaigns on rail safety.
Whether you’re eyeing a BEng in Civil Engineering or an MSc in IT Security, if it aligns with rail innovation, you’re in the running.
Eligibility Criteria – Who Can Apply?
You are invited to submit your application if you meet this selection criteria:
- South African citizen (ID proof essential)
- School leavers to mid-career switchers
- Solid academic track record: Minimum 65% for first-year applicants (or equivalent) for undergrad; strong prior results for postgrad
- Enrolled or provisionally accepted for full-time 2026 studies at a recognised SA university, university of technology or TVETcollge.
- Household income under R600,000 annually (financial need assessment applies)
- No existing full bursary or sponsorship from elsewhere – this one’s your solo supporter
- Bonus points for: Rural or township backgrounds, first-time tertiary applicants, or those with disabilities
The RSR champions equity, so underrepresented voices from all provinces get a fair shot.
How To Apply?
Getting started is straightforward – head to the official RSR portal and follow these moves:
- Download the Railway Safety Regulator Bursary Application Form 2026
- Fill it out digitally, answering questions on your career goals and rail passion
- Gather and scan these must-haves (certified copies, no older than 3 months):
- SA ID document
- Full Matric certificate or latest results
- Tertiary academic transcript (if applicable)
- Provisional acceptance/registration letter from your institution
- Proof of income (parents’ payslips, affidavits, or SASSA statements)
- Motivational letter (500 words max: Why rail safety? How will you contribute?)
- Updated CV highlighting leadership or community involvement
Submit via email to bursaries@rsr.org.za or post/hand-deliver to: Nthabiseng Raseobe Building 4, Waterfall Point Office Park, Corner Waterfall & Woodmead Drive, Waterfall City, Midrand, 1685
Closing Date
Applications close on 23 December 2025. Shortlists roll out in February 2026, with interviews for top contenders. Apply now before the closing date.
Need Assistance?
If you run into problems while trying to apply, drop an email to bursaries@rsr.org.za for assistance. Never contact RSR about this bursary after the closing date.
Missed The Deadline?
If you missed the deadline for the Railway Safety Regulator Bursary for 2026 academic year, simply browse other bursaries still open for applications.
At Grads24.co.za, we’re all about turning student hustle into career breakthroughs. If rail’s your track, this bursary could be your express route.