Job Opportunity: Full‑Time Bursary for 2026 at the Council for Geoscience
If you want to become a geologist, a data scientist, or work on solving big problems like protecting water or improving mining practices, the Council for Geoscience (CGS) has a chance you shouldn’t miss. They are now accepting applications for a full‑time bursary for the 2026 academic year. This bursary covers everything you need to study and work in fields that help South Africa’s future: from geology and environmental science to remote sensing and data science. It’s not just a scholarship; it’s a way to help students who can make a real difference in our country.
Quick Facts
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Bursary name | Council for Geoscience Full‑Time Bursary |
| Academic year | 2026 |
| Who can apply | Full‑time South African university students |
| Supported subjects | Geoscience, Engineering, Environmental, Data‑related fields |
| What it pays for | Tuition, living costs, meals, books, fieldwork, laptop (one‑time) |
| Deadline | 23 January 2026 |
| Apply by | Email + CGS online form |
| Reference | BursaryFT‑2026 |
| bursaries@geoscience.org.za |
What You Can Study
CGS backs a wide range of future‑oriented subjects. If you like digging into the earth or using technology to read it, you might be interested in:
- Geology
- Engineering Geology
- Geophysics
- Hydrogeology (especially groundwater modelling)
- Geochemistry
- Economic Geology
- Environmental Science
- Data Science & Innovation Studies
- Geo‑informatics
- Remote Sensing
- Computational Geosciences
- Mineral Economics
- Mining Seismology
These disciplines help us understand our planet better and solve problems that affect everyday life.
What the Bursary Covers
The full funding is generous:
- Registration and tuition fees
- Money for a flat or travel costs
- Required textbooks
- Food for the semester
- Trips to the field and lab work
- One‑time laptop allowance (for first‑time recipients)
With this support you can concentrate on learning instead of worrying about money.
Who Qualifies?
You must meet every one of these conditions:
- Be a South African citizen.
- Be unemployed (no paid job at the moment).
- Be ready to work with CGS during your studies and after you finish, if asked.
- Be enrolled full‑time at a recognised South African university for 2026.
- Have passed every module you studied last year or semester.
If you have failed any courses or if you study part‑time, you will probably not be accepted.
Gather the Documents
Missing paperwork can make your application invalid. Make sure you have these ready:
- A motivation letter that tells why you want this bursary.
- An updated CV.
- A certified copy of your South African ID.
- Your latest academic transcript.
- Your certified high‑school certificate (Matric).
- Your university acceptance or admission letter for 2026.
All documents must be clear, certified, and easy to read.
How to Apply
- Download the CGS bursary form from the CGS site.
- Fill it out completely.
- Attach every required document.
- Send everything to bursaries@geoscience.org.za.
- Use “BursaryFT‑2026” as the subject line.
- Submit before 23 January 2026.
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
Tips from Edupstairs
We help students like you win opportunities. Our rule: early preparation beats last‑minute rush.
- Write a good motivation letter. Show passion and why your chosen field matters to South Africa.
- Check each file carefully before you send.
- Apply early. Don’t wait until the deadline.
This bursary can change the direction of your life, so treat it with the care it deserves.
What Happens After Graduation
Many CGS‑funded graduates move into jobs such as:
- Geologist / Hydrogeologist
- Environmental Scientist
- Geophysicist
- Data & Geo‑informatics Analyst
- Mining & Resource Economist
- Government or research scientist
- International research roles
These roles open doors in public service, research institutes, consulting firms, and global projects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will CGS reply to every applicant?
Only successful applicants receive a response.Can first‑year students apply?
Yes, if you have a valid university admission letter.Is there a preference for certain groups?
Preference is given to students who were previously disadvantaged, but anyone who meets the requirements can apply.Can I email my application to a different address?
No. Applications sent to the enquiry address won’t be considered.
Closing Date
Remember: 23 January 2026 is the last day to submit your application. Make sure everything is ready and on time.
Disclaimer
Edupstairs is not connected to the Council for Geoscience. The information here is for general awareness. Always double‑check all details on the official CGS website or by contacting them directly.
Ready to apply?
Visit the CGS career portal and send your application to bursaries@geoscience.org.za with the subject “BursaryFT‑2026” before 23 January 2026. Good luck!
