Department of Tourism Bursaries
Department of Tourism Bursaries 2026
Role Overview
Department of Tourism invites qualifying students to apply for the External Bursaries Programme for the 2026 academic year.
Bursary Application Closing Date: 13 March 2026Bursary Location: South Africa (Recognised Institutions)Study Levels: Diploma / Degree / Honours / MSc / MTech (Masters)
This is a government-funded bursary designed to support students in high-demand and strategic fields aligned to national development priorities.
The Department of Tourism External Bursary aims to:
Support financially needy students
Develop scarce and critical skills
Strengthen governance, infrastructure and digital transformation capacity
Build a pipeline of skilled professionals for public sector service
Successful applicants will enter into a formal contractual agreement with the Department of Tourism.
The bursary is available for students studying in the following disciplines:
Graphic Design / Communications Science / Communication Design / Strategic Communication
Computer Science / Information Technology / Software Development
Facility Management / Property Management and Development
Forensic Auditing / Internal Auditing / Information Systems Auditing
Information and Knowledge Management
Industrial / Organisational Psychology
Management Services / Operations Management / Work Study / Organisational Development
These fields support governance, compliance, digitalisation, auditing, infrastructure management and sector transformation.
The remainder of the approved study period
Annual renewal based on satisfactory academic performance
You must maintain acceptable academic results
Continued funding depends on performance
Are studying in one of the listed fields
Have strong academic commitment
Intend to contribute to national development
This bursary is especially beneficial for students in:
Public sector digital transformation
Infrastructure and property management
Organisational development in government
Fully completed bursary application form
Certified copies of academic certificates
Certified copy of South African ID
Proof of registration at a recognised institution
Proof of parent’s/guardian’s income
Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
Applications can be submitted via:
Tourism House17 Trevenna StreetSunnyside0002
Tourism HousePrivate Bag X 424Pretoria0001
Ensure documents are clear, properly certified and combined correctly if submitting via email.
Correspondence will be limited to successful applicants only.
If you do not receive feedback, consider your application unsuccessful.
Mr Gregory Moroke – (012) 444 6166Ms Marjorie Sibiya – (012) 444 6174
Government-funded financial support
Multi-year funding (performance-based renewal)
Opportunity to align your career with national development priorities
Reduced financial stress during your studies
If you are studying in a strategic field that supports tourism development, governance, infrastructure or digital transformation, this is an opportunity worth applying for.
Key Responsibilities
You must represent the bursary programme positively in your professional conduct and fulfill any work-back obligations specified in your bursary contract after graduating. As a bursary recipient, your responsibilities will include maintaining the minimum academic performance standards and attending all lectures and tutorials as required.
Entry Requirements
Commitment to completing your qualification within the prescribed time and willingness to fulfill any work-back obligations. South African citizenship and acceptance or current enrolment at a recognised South African tertiary institution.
Listing Source
This opportunity was sourced from StudentRoom. Always verify final requirements and deadlines on the official source before applying.
How to Apply
DOWNLOAD APPLICATION FORM Applications can be submitted via:
Email application: Bursary2026@tourism.gov.za
About Department of Tourism Bursaries
This bursary is offered by Department of Tourism Bursaries, based in Pretoria.
Why This Is Good for Starters
This bursary from Department of Tourism Bursaries can cover your tuition fees, accommodation, textbooks, and sometimes even a living allowance. In South Africa, where the cost of higher education continues to rise, bursaries are a lifeline for talented students who cannot afford to study. Many bursary programmes also include vacation work placements and guaranteed employment after graduation, giving you both education and career security.
CV Tips for This Application
- Include your academic record — marks and subjects matter for bursary applications
- Write a compelling motivation letter explaining your financial need and career aspirations
- Mention any community involvement, leadership roles, or extracurricular activities
- Include proof of financial need if the application requires it
- Apply early — bursary programmes often close well before the academic year starts
Application Checklist
- Read the full job description carefully before applying
- Prepare an updated CV tailored to this specific role
- Gather all required documents mentioned in the listing
- Prepare your academic transcripts and proof of financial need
- Write a motivation letter explaining your career goals
- Submit before the closing date: 13 March 2026
- Double-check your contact details are correct on your CV
- Follow up after 2 weeks if you have not heard back
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply with matric only?
Check the requirements section above for education requirements.
Do I need experience?
This appears to be suitable for candidates with little or no experience.
Can I apply if I live in another province?
Most opportunities accept applications from candidates across South Africa. Check the requirements for any location-specific criteria.
What happens after I apply?
After submitting your application, the employer will review it. If shortlisted, you may be contacted for an interview. Response times vary by employer.
Is this bursary paid?
Payment details are not specified. Contact the employer for more information.
When is the closing date and what if I miss it?
The closing date is 13 March 2026. Apply before this date to be considered.