Apply Today: 2026 External Bursaries at the Department of Tourism for Graduates & Interns

Department of Tourism is looking for suitable young people to apply for their External Bursaries 2026 opportunities. The closing date for applications is 13 March 2026.

What’s this bursary all about?

This is a government‑backed grant that pays for the rest of your university or college studies if you’re enrolled in one of the high‑demand fields the tourism sector needs. Think of it like getting your tuition paid while you learn a skill that will help make South Africa’s tourism shine.

• Fields covered: Construction Management, Digital Transformation, Business Analytics, Graphic & Communications Design, Computer & Software Development, Law, Data Sciences, Economics, Facility Management, Auditing, Social Sciences, Information & Knowledge Management, Industrial Psychology, Risk Management, Statistics, and more.
• Level of study: Diploma, Degree, Honours, MSc or MTech.
• Funding: The bursary pays the remaining fees for the approved study period and renews every year if you keep up the grades.

Day‑to‑day, you’ll be a student on the move, attending lectures, working on projects, and maybe even shadowing industry professionals—while your tuition is covered.

Who can apply?

• South African citizen.
• Registered in one of the listed disciplines.
• In need of financial support.
• Committed to keeping up with exams and assignments.
• First‑year students are welcome as long as they can prove enrolment.

How to get your application ready

1. Download the application form from the Department’s website (link below).

2. Gather these documents and make sure they’re certified:

   • Copy of your ID.
   • Certified copies of all academic certificates and transcripts.
   • Proof of registration at your institution.
   • Proof of parent/guardian income (tax returns or payslips).
   • Motivational letter (see tips below).

3. Choose a submission method – hand‑drop, post, or email.

   • Hand‑drop: Tourism House, 17 Trevenna Street, Sunnyside, 0002.
   • Post: Tourism House, Private Bag X 424, Pretoria, 0001.
   • Email: Apply right here before it closes.

4. Double‑check that every file is clear and correctly attached if you’re emailing.

Application tips that can set you apart

• Write a killer motivational letter:
  • Explain why your chosen field matters to tourism.
  • Show how your studies will help South Africa grow.
  • Highlight any leadership or community work.
• Keep a copy of everything you send.
• Apply early – last‑minute submissions often get lost.
• If you’re studying a high‑demand skill (e.g., Data Science or Digital Transformation), emphasize that.
• Consider applying to multiple bursaries to boost your chances.

Pay, perks, and career path

• The bursary pays your tuition; no repayments while you study.
• If you finish with good grades, you stay funded for each subsequent year.
• After you graduate, you’ll be positioned for roles such as:
  • Tourism Infrastructure Project Manager
  • Public Sector Data Analyst
  • Digital Systems Specialist
  • Risk Manager
  • Policy Analyst, among others.

Step‑by‑step to apply

1. Download form – here.
2. Fill it out – no shortcuts.
3. Collect certified docs – ID, transcripts, income proof, etc.
4. Write your letter – keep it sincere and to the point.
5. Send it in – via hand, post, or email.
6. Wait for confirmation – only successful applicants receive feedback.

FAQ Snapshot

Final call

Don’t wait until the last minute. If you’re in any of the highlighted subjects and need a financial lift, this bursary can be a game‑changer. Check the full details and start your application today – apply right here before it closes.

Priya Sachdeva7 hours ago

0 4 3 minutes read

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