State Information Technology Agency (SITA) External Bursary Programme Now Opens Application Window for the year 2026 for the Tertiary Students Under the following Field Computer Science, Data Science, IT, Cybersecurity or related fields.
About SITA
SITA’s role is to consolidate and coordinate the State’s information technology resources to achieve cost savings through scale, increase delivery capabilities and enhance interoperability.
The organisation is committed to leveraging Information Technology (IT) as a strategic resource for government, managing the IT procurement and delivery process to ensure that the South African government gets value for money, increased productivity; qualitative solutions, services and products; and uses best practice IT approaches in its modernisation and the delivery of services to all citizens.
Programme Overview
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Programme Name | SITA External Bursary Programme |
| Organisation | State Information Technology Agency (SITA) |
| Closing Date | 01 April 2026 |
| Number of Bursaries | 20 nationwide |
| Funding Covers | Tuition fees, Prescribed textbooks, Accommodation, Meals, Study allowance, Work Integrated Learning (where applicable) |
| Minimum Academic Level | Currently registered for Year 2 |
| Minimum Average Required | 65% |
| Fields Covered | ICT-related qualifications |
| Application Method | Online form + email supporting documents |
Fields Covered Under the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026
- 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
What Does the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026 Cover?
Funding includes:
- Full tuition fees
- Study materials
- Accommodation support
- Meal allowances
- Student allowance
- Work-integrated learning support where applicable
READ: Toyota Apprenticeship Opportunities 2026 for South African Youth
Who Can Apply for the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026?
To qualify for the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026, applicants must meet the minimum academic and study requirements.
- Must be a South African citizen
- Must be registered for second year of study
- Must study at a recognised public tertiary institution
- Must be studying one of the approved ICT qualifications
- Must achieve an academic average of 65%
- Must not already have another bursary
- Must not previously have received a SITA bursary
Preference may be given according to Employment Equity considerations and students living with disabilities.
List of Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following:
- Certified copy of ID
- Certified Matric results
- Proof of registration
- Acceptance letter from institution
- Curriculum Vitae
- Academic transcript showing first-year results
Get More Opportunities
Currents South African Vacancies
Apply for Learnerships Programme
Get Apprenticeships Programmes
Application Closing Date
The closing date for applications is: 01 April 2026
How to Apply for the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026
Submit documents to: externalbursaries2026@sita.co.za
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026?
The SITA External Bursary Programme 2026 is a financial aid opportunity for South African students studying ICT-related qualifications.
2. Who is offering the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026?
The bursary is offered by the State Information Technology Agency (SITA).
3. How many bursaries are available under the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026?
A total of 20 bursaries will be awarded nationwide.
4. What does the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026 cover?
The bursary covers:
Tuition fees
Prescribed textbooks
Accommodation
Meals
Study allowance
Work Integrated Learning (where applicable)
5. Who can apply for the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026?
Students who are currently registered for Year 2, studying an ICT-related qualification, and have a minimum average of 65% can apply.
6. What is the minimum academic average required for the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026?
Applicants must have a minimum average of 65%.
7. What level of study is required for this bursary?
Applicants must be currently registered for Year 2.
8. Which fields are covered by the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026?
The bursary covers ICT-related qualifications.
9. How do I apply for the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026?
You must complete an online application form and email the required supporting documents.
10. What is the closing date for the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026?
The closing date is 01 April 2026.
11. Is the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026 open to all students?
No, it is only open to students who meet the academic and study field requirements.
12. Can first-year students apply for the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026?
Based on the listed requirements, applicants must be currently registered for Year 2.
13. Does the bursary include accommodation support?
Yes, accommodation is included in the bursary coverage.
14. Does the bursary cover meals?
Yes, the bursary includes support for meals.
15. Are textbooks covered under the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026?
Yes, the bursary covers prescribed textbooks.
16. What is Work Integrated Learning in the bursary package?
It refers to practical learning support that may be included where applicable.
17. Why is this bursary important for ICT students?
It helps students reduce financial stress and continue their studies in important technology-related fields.
18. Can the bursary improve my future career opportunities?
Yes, receiving bursary support can help you complete your qualification and improve your future career prospects.
19. Should I apply early for the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026?
Yes, applying early is highly recommended to avoid missing the deadline or facing technical issues.
20. Why is the SITA External Bursary Programme 2026 competitive?
It is competitive because only 20 bursaries are available nationwide.
21. Can I apply if I study a non-ICT qualification?
No, the bursary is specifically intended for students pursuing ICT-related qualifications.
22. What should I do before submitting my application?
Before submitting, make sure all your documents are complete, your marks meet the requirement, and your details are accurate.
