The Department of Tourism Bursaries 2026 offer a key chance for South African students, with the closing date now extended to 20 March 2026. This government program provides funding for those in need who study high-demand fields like digital transformation and infrastructure. It helps build skills for national growth.
This guide covers eligibility rules, fields of study, how long the bursary lasts, required documents, the application process, and tips for success. Read on for clear steps to apply.
About the Department of Tourism Bursaries 2026
The Department of Tourism Bursaries 2026 form a government-funded program for the 2026 academic year. It targets financially needy students at recognized South African institutions. The goal is to develop scarce skills and build capacity in areas like governance, infrastructure, and digital transformation.
Key aims include:
- 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 sign a formal contract with the Department of Tourism.
Fields of Study Covered
These bursaries fund studies from Diploma to Masters levels in fields tied to national priorities. They focus on governance, compliance, digitalization, auditing, infrastructure, and sector transformation. Students can scan the list below to check matches.
Digital and tech fields:
- Digital Transformation
- Business Analytics
- Graphic Design / Communications Science / Communication Design / Strategic Communication
- Computer Science / Information Technology / Software Development
- Data Sciences / Data Analytics
- Information and Knowledge Management
Management and operations fields:
- Construction Management
- Facility Management / Property Management and Development
- Management Services / Operations Management / Work Study / Organisational Development
- Industrial / Organisational Psychology
Other strategic fields:
- Law
- Development Studies
- Economics
- Forensic Auditing / Internal Auditing / Information Systems Auditing
- Humanities (Social Sciences)
- Risk Management
- Statistics
Bursary Duration and Renewal Conditions
The Department of Tourism Bursaries 2026 cover the rest of your approved study period. This applies to Diploma, Degree, Honours, MSc, or MTech at recognized institutions. Renewal happens each year if you meet performance standards.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Coverage | Remainder of the approved study period |
| Study Levels | Diploma / Degree / Honours / MSc / MTech |
| Renewal | Annual, based on passing modules and acceptable academic results |
You must pass all modules to keep the funding.
Who Should Apply for the Bursaries
South African citizens in listed fields can apply if they show financial need and strong academic promise. The program suits those committed to national development. Use this checklist to see if you qualify.
- South African citizen
- Studying in one of the listed fields
- Demonstrate financial need
- Have strong academic commitment
- Intend to contribute to national development
It helps students in public sector digital transformation, data analytics, infrastructure, risk management, and organizational growth.
Required Documents for Application
Gather these items before applying for the Department of Tourism Bursaries 2026. Submit everything to avoid disqualification.
- Fully completed bursary application form
- Certified copies of academic certificates
- Academic transcripts
- Certified copy of South African ID
- Proof of registration at a recognised institution
- Proof of parent’s/guardian’s income
- Motivational letter
Warning: Incomplete applications may be disqualified.
How to Apply: Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these steps to submit your application for the Department of Tourism Bursaries 2026. Act before the 20 March 2026 deadline.
- Download the application form from the Department of Tourism website.
- Gather all required documents, with clear certified copies.
- Complete the form and write your motivational letter.
- Submit via one method: hand delivery to Tourism House, 17 Trevenna Street, Sunnyside 0002; post to Tourism House, Private Bag X 424, Pretoria 0001; or email to [email protected]. Combine documents properly for email.
For questions, contact Mr Gregory Moroke at (012) 444 6166 or Ms Marjorie Sibiya at (012) 444 6174.
Important Notes and Enquiries
The Department of Tourism will contact only successful applicants. No feedback means your application did not succeed.
Closing Date: 20 March 2026 (Extended)
| Contact | Phone |
|---|---|
| Mr Gregory Moroke | (012) 444 6166 |
| Ms Marjorie Sibiya | (012) 444 6174 |
Why Apply for Department of Tourism Bursaries 2026
This bursary eases study costs in strategic fields. It matches careers with national needs in tourism and government.
- Government-funded financial support
- Multi-year funding with performance-based renewal
- Chance to align your career with national development priorities
- Reduced financial stress during studies
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