SITA 2026 Bursary – 20 Spots for ICT 2nd‑Year Students, Apply by 01 Apr
Ready to turn your computer science degree into a real‑world career? The State Information Technology Agency (SITA) has a new bursary that can cover most of your study costs – and it’s only open to South African students who are already in their second year of an approved ICT programme. SITA External Bursary Programme is a golden ticket to a public‑sector digital future, but you must act fast – the deadline is 1 April 2026.
What the SITA Bursary Is All About
The SITA External Bursary Programme is a government‑backed grant that pays for key expenses so you can focus on learning and gaining experience. Only 20 bursaries nationwide will be awarded, so competition is tight.
What the Money Covers
- Full tuition fees
- Required textbooks
- Accommodation support
- Meal allowance
- Study stipend
- Work‑integrated learning opportunities (if applicable)
Fields of Study Covered
- BSc Computer Science
- BSc Computer Science and Informatics (AI)
- BSc Information Technology
- BSc Data Science
- Diploma in ICT – Application Development
- Diploma in ICT – Communication Networks
- BSc Cybersecurity
Who Should Apply?
- Second‑year students in an approved ICT degree or diploma at a recognised public tertiary institution.
- South African citizens only.
- Average of at least 65 % in all completed courses.
- Not currently holding another bursary or a previous SITA bursary.
- Preferential consideration for employment equity categories and students with disabilities.
What You Gain From the Bursary
Beyond the financial support, the bursary gives you:
- Hands‑on work‑integrated learning, often in a public‑sector IT setting.
- Access to a network of industry professionals and future employers.
- A solid foundation for careers in software development, cybersecurity, data science, AI, and more.
- A clear career ladder: graduate programme → junior specialist → senior analyst → digital transformation leader.
How to Apply – Step By Step
- Grab the form: Use the official SITA bursary application link: SITA External Bursaries.
- Gather documents:
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified matric results
- Proof of registration for the current year
- Acceptance letter from your institution
- Your CV (highlight ICT skills and projects)
- Academic transcript showing first‑year results
- Send your application: Email all supporting documents to externalbursaries2026@sita.co.za.
- Make sure you do it before 1 April 2026. Late or incomplete submissions will be rejected.
Tips to Boost Your Chances
- Upload certified copies early to avoid last‑minute delays.
- Keep your CV fresh and list any programming languages or projects you’ve completed.
- Show evidence of teamwork or real‑world experience where possible.
- Apply to other bursaries as well – don’t put all your eggs in one basket.
- Check the Employment Equity policy; demonstrating diversity can give you an edge.
FAQs (Quick Answers)
- Can first‑year students apply? No – you must be a second‑year student.
- Is accommodation covered? Yes, the bursary includes accommodation support.
- Can I have another bursary? No – dual sponsorship is not allowed.
- What average do I need? A minimum of 65 % is required.
- Is this nationwide? Yes, students from all provinces can apply.
Next Steps
If you meet the criteria, start gathering your documents and click the application link above. Remember: only 20 bursaries are available, so act quickly. Good luck!
