Department of Tourism Bursaries 2026: Fully Funded Government Support for Tourism & Hospitality Studies
Overview
Department of Tourism Bursaries 2026 offers fully funded government support to eligible South African students pursuing tourism, hospitality, and strategic public-sector studies. This bursary programme strengthens the national workforce, drives tourism growth, and enhances skills development in key sectors.
Purpose
To support students financially while developing critical skills in tourism, hospitality, public administration, digital transformation, and related strategic fields. The bursaries aim to build a future-ready, capable workforce for South Africa’s tourism and public sectors.
Importance
- Provides fully funded study support, reducing student debt.
- Develops skills aligned with tourism, hospitality, and public-sector priorities.
- Strengthens career prospects and contributes to national economic growth.
Fields of Study Supported (2026 Academic Year)
- Construction Management
- Digital Transformation
- Business Analytics
- Graphic Design / Communication Design / Strategic Communication
- Computer Science / Information Technology / Software Development
- Law
- Data Science / Data Analytics
- Development Studies
- Economics
- Facility Management / Property Management and Development
- Forensic Auditing / Internal Auditing / Information Systems Auditing
- Humanities (Social Sciences)
- Information and Knowledge Management
- Industrial / Organisational Psychology
- Management Services / Operations Management / Organisational Development
- Risk Management
- Statistics
Eligibility / Minimum Requirements
- South African citizen.
- Registered or accepted at a recognised public tertiary institution.
- Studying or intending to study in an approved field.
- Demonstrated strong academic performance.
- Financial need where required.
- Willing to sign a formal bursary agreement with the Department of Tourism.
Funding Coverage
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks and study materials
- Accommodation (where applicable)
- Living allowance (as determined by the department)
Funding is subject to approval, budget availability, and satisfactory academic performance. It may be renewed annually for the duration of the approved qualification.
Important Dates
Closing Date: 13 March 2026
Late or incomplete applications will not be considered. Students are encouraged to submit early to avoid technical or administrative issues.
How to Apply
- Access the official Department of Tourism bursary page: Official Bursary Portal
- Download the official application form (PDF): Download Form
- Complete the form accurately and honestly.
- Attach certified supporting documents such as:
- South African ID
- Latest academic transcripts
- Proof of registration or acceptance
- Any additional documents specified on the form
- Submit the application as instructed on the official bursary page before the deadline.
Benefits
- Financial stability throughout studies
- Reduced student debt
- Career-aligned qualification for tourism, hospitality, and public-sector roles
- Opportunities to contribute to national development
Official Links
Bursary portal: Department of Tourism Bursaries 2026
Application form: Download PDF Form