Why This Bursary Is a Game‑Changer for You Right Now
If you’re a South African student dreaming of a career in tourism, business or technology, the Department of Tourism’s External Bursary Programme 2026 could be the financial lift you need. It covers a wide range of study levels – from diplomas to PhDs – and the funding can keep you on track for the rest of your degree, provided you maintain good grades.
What the Programme Looks Like
Bursary provider: Department of Tourism (South Africa)
Programme name: External Bursary Programme 2026
Study levels: Diploma, Degree, Honours, Master’s, MSc, MTech, PhD
Location: Pretoria
Closing date: 20 March 2026
The Department is inviting students who are studying fields that help the tourism sector and government work. If you’re in a related course, you could receive funding for the rest of your approved study period, as long as you keep up good academic performance each year. You’ll also need to sign a bursary contract with the Department.
Who Should Apply?
Many applicants struggle to figure out whether they’re eligible. From experience, most successful candidates fit one of the following study areas:
- Tourism Management
- Accounting / Financial Accounting / Management Accounting
- Bachelor of Laws (LLB)
- Business Analytics
- Communications / Communication Science / Communication Design
- Graphic Design
- Strategic Communication
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Software Development
- Construction Management
- Data Science / Data Analytics
- Development Studies
- Digital Transformation
- Economics
- Facility Management
- Property Management and Development
- Forensic Auditing
- Internal Auditing
- Information Systems Auditing
- Humanities (Social Sciences)
- Information and Knowledge Management
- Industrial or Organisational Psychology
- Management Services
- Operations Management
- Work Study
- Organisational Development
- Monitoring and Evaluation
- Public Administration
- Business Administration
- Risk Management
- Statistics
- Supply Chain Management
If you’re studying in any of these fields, you may qualify. Remember, the programme covers a broad spectrum of disciplines that support government and tourism.
What You Gain
Beyond the money, a bursary gives you stability while you study. You’ll build a professional relationship with the Department, learn about public sector operations and gain a head start on a career in the tourism industry. The contract also means you’ll have a clear path to continue your studies without worrying about finances.
How to Apply – Step by Step
- Download or pick up the application form. Get it from the Department of Tourism website or collect it at the reception office. The link is: Department of Tourism Bursaries page.
- Complete the form and gather your documents. Make sure you have your academic transcripts, CV and any other required papers ready.
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Choose your submission method.
- Hand delivery: Tourism House, 17 Trevenna Street, Sunnyside, Pretoria 0002.
- Postal submission: Tourism House, Private Bag X 424, Pretoria 0001.
- Email submission: Bursary2026@tourism.gov.za.
- Send your application before 20 March 2026. Make sure all information is complete – incomplete applications are often rejected without notice.
Practical Tips to Boost Your Chances
Many applicants struggle with the paperwork. From experience, the most successful candidates submit a neat, well‑organised bundle. Double‑check your CV and transcripts for clarity. If this is your first time applying, don’t worry – just take your time to fill in each section accurately. Remember, only successful applicants will be contacted, so if you don’t hear back, your application may not have been accepted.
Need More Help?
Mr Gregory Moroke
Telephone: (012) 444 6166
Ms Marjorie Sibiya
Telephone: (012) 444 6174
Mzansi 4 Youth Tip
Government bursaries often receive a large number of applications. To improve your chances, make sure your academic transcripts, CV, and supporting documents are clear and complete before submission. If your studies are related to tourism, business, administration, data analytics or technology, this type of bursary can provide valuable financial support while preparing you for future careers in the public sector.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Check the official link, fill out your application carefully, and send it by the deadline. This could be the support you need to finish your degree and step into a meaningful role in South Africa’s tourism and public sectors. Good luck!