South African students can now apply for the Department of Tourism External Bursary 2026.
This government-funded programme supports financially needy students studying in high-demand fields aligned with national development priorities.
Closing Date: 13 March 2026
Study Location: Recognised South African institutions (Nationwide)
Study Levels: Diploma, Degree, Honours, Masters
Funding Type: Full or Partial Government Support
If you qualify, this bursary could fully cover your studies in 2026.
About the Funder
Department of Tourism funds this programme to strengthen skills in critical sectors that support economic growth, digital transformation, governance, and infrastructure development.
Priority is given to students committed to contributing to public sector service delivery.
Fields of Study Funded in 2026
The 2026 intake focuses on strategic and future-focused skills.
Technology & Data
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Software Development
- Data Science
- Business Analytics
Management & Infrastructure
- Construction Management
- Facility Management
- Property Management
- Operations Management
Commerce & Legal Fields
- Economics
- Statistics
- Risk Management
- Law
- Forensic Auditing
Communication & Design
- Graphic Design
- Strategic Communication
- Information Management
Social Sciences
- Industrial Psychology
- Humanities
- Development Studies
If your qualification aligns with national development goals, your chances improve.
Who Should Apply?
You should apply if you:
- Are a South African citizen
- Are financially needy
- Are accepted or registered at a recognised SA institution
- Intend to contribute to public service
- Are studying in one of the listed strategic fields
Government bursaries are highly competitive. Strong academic performance and a compelling motivation letter are essential.
Required Documents (Mandatory)
Incomplete applications will be disqualified.
Prepare certified copies of:
- Fully completed Official Application Form
- Certified ID copy
- Matric certificate
- Full academic transcripts
- Proof of registration (2026)
- Parent/Guardian proof of income (payslips or affidavit)
- Motivational letter
Ensure all documents are clear and certified.
How to Apply for the Department of Tourism Bursary 2026
You can submit your application using ONE of the following official channels:
1. Email Submission
Send all documents combined into ONE PDF to:
Bursary2026@tourism.gov.za
2. Hand Delivery
Tourism House
17 Trevenna Street
Sunnyside
Pretoria
0002
3. Postal Submission
Private Bag X 424
Pretoria
0001
Enquiries
- Mr Gregory Moroke: (012) 444 6166
- Ms Marjorie Sibiya: (012) 444 6174
Apply before 13 March 2026.
Application Strategy: Increase Your Chances
To stand out:
- Clearly explain financial need in your motivation letter
- Show how your field supports public service delivery
- Connect your studies to government transformation goals
- Ensure professional formatting and structured presentation
- Submit before the deadline
Government departments prioritise students who demonstrate long-term commitment to national development.
Funding Alternatives
If you don’t qualify yet, also explore:
- Shoprite Supply Chain & Logistics Bursary 2026 (10 Funded Slots)
- SETA Bursary 2026
- WSB Cares 2026 Bursary: ICT Graduates With Outstanding Fees Can Unlock Their Degree
- Samancor Chrome Bursary 2026: Mining & Engineering Funding
- Shoprite Bursary 2026 – Retail Business Management (60 Funded Opportunities Nationwide)
- iSimangaliso Wetland Park Bursary 2026 (KZN Students)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The closing date is 13 March 2026.
Yes. It supports Diploma, Degree, Honours, and Masters qualifications.
You must be registered at a recognised South African institution.
No. It prioritises strategic fields linked to national development.
You can apply via email, post, or hand delivery.
Final Thoughts
The Department of Tourism External Bursary 2026 is a major opportunity for students pursuing strategic careers in technology, law, management, and social sciences.
With government funding and limited spaces, early and well-prepared applications are critical.
If your career goal is to improve public service delivery in South Africa, this bursary could fund your path forward.
Submit before 13 March 2026 — and present your application professionally.
