Closes
21 August 2026
Level
1st Year Undergraduate
For
Park Neighbouring Communities
Sector
Environment & Tourism
Household Income
Max R350 000 p.a.
Type
Comprehensive
About this bursary
South African National Parks offers financial support for students starting their first year of tertiary education in 2027. Funding covers full-time undergraduate diploma and degree programmes across various field disciplines.
This initiative specifically targets young people living in towns and settlements next to South Africa's national parks. It aims to build skills and economic opportunities within communities that border protected conservation areas.
Selection prioritises female candidates, applicants with disabilities, and historically disadvantaged groups to promote equal representation in conservation-related sectors.
Courses of study covered
What the bursary covers
Who can apply
You qualify if
- You must be a South African citizen aged between 18 and 35 years.
- You must live in a community directly neighbouring one of the 21 national parks managed by SANParks.
- You must currently be in matric or have completed your matric certificate.
- You must plan to register for your first year of undergraduate study in 2027.
- You must have applied or been accepted at a public university, university of technology, or TVET college in South Africa.
- Your total annual household income must not exceed R350 000.
You do not qualify if
- Applicants older than 35 years or non-South African citizens.
- Postgraduate students or those entering their second year of study or higher.
- Students registered at private higher education institutions.
- Applicants living outside designated national park neighbour communities.
- Households with an annual income greater than R350 000.
Documents you need to submit
- Certified copy of South African identity document
- Certified copy of latest matric results or certificate
- Proof of acceptance or application letter from an accredited public institution on official letterhead
- Proof of residential address showing proximity to a national park
- Motivational letter explaining field of study and financial context
- Comprehensive updated curriculum vitae
- Affidavit confirming household income or social grant status
Ensure all document copies are clearly certified before submitting.
How to apply
- 1Gather clear copies of all required supporting documents.
- 2Write a detailed motivational letter outlining your intended course and financial background.
- 3Create a single email addressed to [email protected].
- 4Type SANParks Bursary 2027 as your email subject line.
- 5Attach all documentation and send your application before the closing date.
No official application form is required. Submitting your email with documents completes the process.