Apply Now: SITA External Bursary Programme 2026

ByRainbow Time

State Information Technology Agency (SITA) Bursary Programme 2026.

The State Information Technology Agency (SITA) invites second-year students registered at recognized public tertiary institutions in South Africa to apply for the SITA External Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year. The bursary supports studies in ICT-related qualifications such as Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Science, Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, and ICT Diplomas, and is aimed at addressing critical skills shortages in the sector.

The bursary covers tuition fees, prescribed study materials, accommodation, meals, allowances, and work-integrated learning (where applicable) for qualifying students with a minimum 65% academic average who do not already receive full study funding. Applications are open nationwide across South Africa, and the closing date is 01 April 2026

Position: SITA External Bursary Programme (ICT-related qualifications)
Duration: Covers studies from 2nd year onwards for the 2026 academic year
Location: South Africa
Closing Date: 01 April 2026

The State Information Technology Agency (SITA) invites eligible South African students to apply for its External Bursary Programme for the 2026 academic year. The bursary aims to support students pursuing qualifications in Information and Communication Technology (ICT) fields and help address national skills shortages in the technology sector.

A total of 20 bursaries will be awarded to deserving students studying at recognised public tertiary institutions across South Africa.

About the SITA Bursary Programme

The SITA bursary scheme is designed to develop future ICT professionals by supporting academically strong students who demonstrate potential in priority technology disciplines.

Selected bursary recipients will receive comprehensive financial support covering:

  • Tuition fees
  • Prescribed textbooks and study materials
  • Accommodation costs
  • Meal allowances
  • Monthly allowances (where applicable)
  • Work Integrated Learning (WIL), if required by the qualification

This bursary provides valuable support for students building careers in software development, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, networking, and data science.

Fields of Study Covered

Applications are open to students registered for the following qualifications:

  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and Informatics (Artificial Intelligence)
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
  • Bachelor of Science in Data Science
  • Diploma in ICT (Application Development)
  • Diploma in ICT (Communication Networks)
  • Bachelor of Science majoring in Cybersecurity

Only students enrolled in these ICT-related programmes will be considered.

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet all the following criteria:

  • Must be a South African citizen
  • Must be registered for second year (Year 2) of study in 2026
  • Must be studying at a recognised public tertiary institution in South Africa
  • Must have achieved a minimum average of 65% in first-year results
  • Must not already have another bursary covering studies (no dual sponsorship allowed)

Preference will be given to:

  • Students living with disabilities
  • White, Coloured, and Indian applicants (in line with the organisation’s Employment Equity Plan)

Applicants previously funded by the SITA bursary programme are not eligible to apply again.

Required Supporting Documents

Applicants must submit the following documents:

  • Certified copy of ID document
  • Certified copy of Matric results
  • Proof of university registration
  • Official acceptance letter from the institution
  • Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
  • Academic transcript (first-year results)

Applications without supporting documents will not be considered.

How to Apply
  • Applicants must complete the online application form via the SITA External Bursary Programme portal
  • After completing the application form, send all required supporting documents to: [email protected]
  • Use a clear subject line such as: SITA Bursary Application 2026 – [Your Name & Qualification]

Ensure all documents are certified and submitted before the deadline.

Important Notes for Applicants
  • SITA is an Employment Equity employer
  • Bursaries will be awarded according to the organisation’s Employment Equity Plan
  • Only successful applicants will be contacted
  • Decisions by the SITA Bursary Adjudication Committee are final
  • SITA reserves the right not to award bursaries
  • If no response is received within three months after the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful
Closing Date: 01 April 2026

Late or incomplete applications will not be accepted. Students are encouraged to apply as early as possible.