Do you live near a South African national park and need help paying for university? South African National Parks is offering a full bursary for the 2027 academic year, and the deadline is fast approaching.
What is the SANParks External Bursary Programme 2027?
The programme gives financial support to young South Africans from communities that border a national park. It covers full‑time studies at public universities, universities of technology or TVET colleges across the country. You can study for a diploma, degree, technician or artisan qualification in fields that help conservation, tourism, community development or infrastructure.
Who is eligible?
- South African citizen, aged 18‑35.
- Live in a community that neighbours or is adjacent to a national park (as defined in the park‑management plans).
- Plan to study full‑time in 2027 at an accredited public institution.
- Chosen qualification must be on the approved list (see below).
- Household or personal annual income not higher than R350 000.
- Meet the academic entry requirements of the chosen programme.
Both new matriculants and students already enrolled (who have passed every subject in the completed year) can apply.
What you will receive
- A comprehensive bursary that can cover tuition, books, accommodation, transport and other study‑related costs – exact amounts will be confirmed by SANParks if you are selected.
- Opportunity to build skills that are in demand for jobs in conservation, tourism, engineering, technology and community development.
- Support from a respected national employer that values diversity and inclusion.
Approved fields of study
Environmental & Conservation
- Nature Conservation, Environmental Management, Environmental Science
- Green Energy, Environmental Engineering, Sustainable Development
- Game Ranch Management, Biodiversity studies
Tourism & Hospitality
- Hospitality Management, Tourism Management, Resort Management
- Tour Guiding, Events Management, Conference Management
Social Sciences & Community Development
- Community Development, Economic Development, Socio‑Economic Development
- Development Studies, Community‑based Planning
Infrastructure & Built Environment
- Civil, Mechanical and Electrical Engineering
- Construction Management, Quantity Surveying, Architecture
- Project Management
Technical & Artisan Trades
- Electrical work, Plumbing, Welding, Millwright studies
- Mechanical trades, Technician qualifications, Solar & Renewable Energy technology
- Refrigeration, Water & Wastewater technology
Emerging & Scarce Skills
- Geographic Information Systems (GIS)
- Data Analytics, Cybersecurity
- Renewable Energy, Climate Change Adaptation
- Biodiversity Economics, Entrepreneurship
The list is not exhaustive; SANParks may consider related qualifications that serve its conservation and development goals.
How to apply – step by step
- Gather the required documents (see list below).
- Write a clear motivation letter (300‑500 words) answering the prompts in the “Motivation Letter Requirements” section.
- Prepare an updated CV.
- Obtain certified copies of your ID, latest academic results and your acceptance or admission letter from the chosen institution.
- Provide proof of residence (e.g., utility bill or rates account) that shows you live in an eligible community.
- If you receive a social grant, attach an affidavit confirming household income is below R350 000.
- Email everything to happy.nhlangwini@sanparks.org with the subject line: SANParks External Bursary Programme 2027 Application – Your Full Name.
- Make sure every file is clearly named (e.g., “MotivationLetter_YourName.pdf”).
- Send the email before 21 August 2026.
Official application link: Apply for the SANParks External Bursary Programme 2027
Documents you must attach
- Motivation letter (see requirements below).
- Current CV.
- Certified copy of your South African ID.
- Certified copy of your latest academic transcript.
- Official acceptance or admission letter from an accredited public institution.
- Proof of residential address.
- Affidavit confirming income below R350 000 (if you receive a social grant).
- Any additional documents requested by SANParks.
Motivation letter should cover
- Why you need the bursary.
- Your chosen field of study and why you picked it.
- How the qualification links to SANParks or your community.
- Your academic and career goals.
- How the bursary will help you finish your studies.
- The national park or neighbouring community you live in.
Proof of admission
The document must show your name, the institution’s name, the qualification, the year you intend to start and the institution’s official details.
Proof of residence
Use any accepted document (e.g., rates invoice, utility bill) that clearly shows your address and matches the details on your ID and CV.
Tips to improve your chances
- Double‑check that every document is certified and legible.
- Keep your motivation letter focused, honest and under 500 words.
- Highlight any community involvement, especially projects that support conservation or tourism.
- Show how you will give back to your local area after you graduate.
- Submit your application a few days early to avoid technical glitches.
- If you have a disability or belong to a designated group, mention it – the bursary aims to increase their participation.
Final reminders
- Deadline: 21 August 2026. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.
- Only full‑time study at a public accredited institution is eligible.
- If you do not hear back by the official notification date, follow up using the contact details below.
Contact for enquiries
Email: happy.nhlangwini@sanparks.org
Phone: 012 426 5173
When you write, include your full name, the qualification you want to study, and the national park community you live in.
About South African National Parks
South African National Parks (SANParks) manages the country’s national parks and protects biodiversity, landscapes and cultural heritage. It works closely with neighbouring communities to promote conservation, education and economic development. The External Bursary Programme is part of this partnership, helping young people gain the skills needed to sustain and grow South Africa’s protected areas.
