Hey future conservationists and tourism stars!
Dream of a career protecting South Africa’s incredible natural heritage or making its tourism shine? Then you absolutely need to hear about the SANParks External Bursary Programme 2026! This isn’t just any bursary; it’s your chance to study and make a real difference, especially if you live near one of our stunning National Parks.
So, what’s the deal with this bursary? Well, SANParks, the awesome folks who look after our national parks, are offering a fantastic opportunity for young South Africans. This programme is specifically designed to support students who are starting their first year of undergraduate studies in the 2026 academic year. The cool part? It’s really focused on empowering youth from communities right next to National Parks, helping to build skills and capacity in areas vital to conservation, tourism, and community development.
Who Can Apply?
Thinking this sounds like you? Here’s what SANParks is looking for:
- You must be a South African citizen.
- You should be a learner from a community living adjacent to a National Park. You can usually find details on specific park management plans on the SANParks website to see if your area qualifies.
- You need proof that you’ve applied to and been accepted into an accredited institution of Higher Education (that’s a University, TVET College, or University of Technology).
- You must be entering your first post-matric study year in 2026.
- This bursary is open to students pursuing a qualification at a TVET college too, which is awesome!
- You need to be between 18 and 35 years old.
- If you’re already studying, you need a 100% pass rate for all courses you’ve registered for up to now. So, keep those grades up!
What Does It Cover?
The SANParks External Bursary aims to support students pursuing qualifications in fields that are super important for their work. While specific details on what the bursary covers (like tuition, accommodation, books, etc.) are usually outlined in the application, it generally aims to support students financially in these key areas:
- Environmental Sciences: This includes exciting fields like Nature Conservation, Environmental Management, Green Energy, Environmental Engineering, Sustainable Development, and Game Ranch Management.
- Tourism: Get ready for a career in Hospitality Management, Resort Management, Tour Guiding, or Events and Conference Management.
- Social Sciences: Explore Community Development, Economic Development, Socio-Economic Development, and other related Development Studies.
How to Apply?
Ready to jump in? Here’s what you need to do:
Gather these important documents:
- A compelling motivation letter explaining why you need the bursary and your chosen field of study.
- A comprehensive and up-to-date CV.
- A certified copy of your South African Identity Document.
- A certified copy of your latest academic record (matric results, or current tertiary results if applicable).
- Your acceptance letter from a registered and accredited public institution of Higher Education (University, TVET College, or University of Technology).
- Proof of your residential address.
Once you have everything ready, email your complete application to: bursaries@sanparks.org
For more detailed information and to double-check any requirements, always visit the official SANParks webpage:
Visit the Official SANParks External Bursary Programme Webpage
Ready to start your journey with SANParks? If this sounds like your perfect opportunity, make sure you get your application in before the 18 August 2025 deadline! Don’t miss out on the chance to contribute to South Africa’s natural heritage and build an amazing career. Apply today and remember to check out more amazing bursaries right here on Bursaries Room!