The Council for Geoscience Bursary 2026 — The Council for Geoscience (CGS) invites university students to apply for a full-time bursary for the 2026 academic year. This comprehensive geoscience bursary programme aims to create, enhance, and support expertise in geosciences and related technical fields, providing full coverage for registration, tuition, accommodation, books, meals, and a laptop allowance for successful candidates pursuing careers in earth sciences.
About Council for Geoscience (CGS)
The Council for Geoscience (CGS) is mandated to collect and curate all geoscience data in South Africa, both onshore and offshore. It aims to use these data to find meaningful geoscience solutions to respond to real-world challenges. With its Head Office situated in Silverton, Pretoria, the CGS takes pride in having and building a winning team of scientists within the various fields of geoscience.
As South Africa’s national geoscience research organization, CGS plays a crucial role in mineral exploration, groundwater management, environmental protection, and geological hazard assessment. The bursary programme represents an investment in developing the next generation of geoscientists who will address South Africa’s geological challenges and opportunities.
The objective of the CGS bursary is to create, enhance and support expertise in the geosciences and related technical fields, addressing critical skills shortages in South Africa’s earth sciences sector.
Fields of Study Covered by The Council For Geoscience Bursary 2026
- Geology
- Engineering Geology
- Geophysics
- Hydrogeology (groundwater modelling focus)
- Geochemistry
- Economic Geology
- Environmental Science
- Data Science and Innovation Studies
- Geo-informatics
- Remote Sensing
- Computational Geosciences
- Mineral Economics
- Mining Seismology
These fields represent the core and emerging disciplines within geosciences that are critical to South Africa’s natural resource management and geological research.
Eligibility Requirements for The Council For Geoscience Bursary 2026
- South African citizen
- Currently unemployed
- Available for vocational work during studies
- Available for work-back period upon completion
- Enrolled full-time at SA institution for 2026
- Current students: Passed all previous modules
Applicants must be willing to participate in vocational work during studies and work-back obligations after graduation.
Bursary Coverage
- Registration and tuition fees
- Accommodation/Transport allowance
- Prescribed books and study materials
- Meals allowance
- Field excursions and analysis costs
- Once-off laptop allowance (first-time bursars)
The bursary provides comprehensive support including field work expenses and a laptop for new recipients.
How to Apply
Step 1: Download and complete the CGS bursary application form
Step 2: Gather all required documents (see checklist below)
Step 3: Email complete application to bursaries@geoscience.org.za
Email Subject: BursaryFT-2026
⏰ Closing Date: Applications must be submitted by 23 January 2026 at 23:59.
Required Documents Checklist
- Completed CGS bursary application form
- Motivation letter explaining your interest in geosciences
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Certified copy of ID document
- Latest academic record/transcripts
- Certified copy of Matric results
- Acceptance/admission letter from university
Important: All documents must be included. Late or incomplete applications will be disqualified.
Additional Information
- Applications are for full-time studies only
- Current students must have passed all previous modules
- Bursary includes field excursion funding – unique to geoscience studies
- Once-off laptop allowance for first-time recipients
- Work-back obligation after graduation
- Vocational work opportunities during studies
- Submit to correct email: bursaries@geoscience.org.za (NOT enquiries email)
- Include reference in subject line: BursaryFT-2026
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who is eligible for the CGS bursary?
South African citizens enrolled full-time in geoscience fields at SA institutions, currently unemployed, available for vocational work during studies, and willing to work back after graduation.
2. What geoscience fields are covered?
Geology, Geophysics, Hydrogeology, Geochemistry, Environmental Science, Data Science, Geo-informatics, Remote Sensing, Mineral Economics, Mining Seismology, and related computational fields.
3. What does the bursary cover?
Registration, tuition, accommodation/transport, books, meals, field excursions, analysis costs, and a once-off laptop allowance for first-time recipients.
4. How do I apply?
Download application form, complete with required documents, and email to bursaries@geoscience.org.za with subject “BursaryFT-2026” by 23 January 2026 at 23:59.
5. Is there a work-back obligation?
Yes, recipients must be available for work-back periods at CGS upon completion of studies as required.
6. What is vocational work during studies?
Practical work experience opportunities at CGS during study breaks or part-time, providing valuable field experience.
7. Are field excursions covered?
Yes, field excursion and analysis costs are specifically covered – essential for geoscience education.
8. Do I get a laptop?
First-time bursary recipients receive a once-off laptop allowance as part of their funding package.
9. Where do I send my application?
Email to bursaries@geoscience.org.za only. Do NOT send to the enquiries email address.
10. Who should I contact for enquiries?
Email bursaryenquiries@geoscience.org.za or call 012 841 1106/1118. For more earth science opportunities, explore our bursaries database or check other geoscience opportunities.
Contact Information
- Application Submission:
Email: bursaries@geoscience.org.za
Subject line: BursaryFT-2026 - Bursary Enquiries:
Email: bursaryenquiries@geoscience.org.za
Tel: 012 841 1106 / 012 841 1118 - CGS Head Office:
280 Pretoria Road, Silverton
Pretoria, South Africa - Important Note:
DO NOT send applications to enquiries email. Applications to wrong address will not be considered.
For more science and research bursaries and 2026 funding opportunities, visit EduFunds.co.za
Council for Geoscience
Human Capital Development & Bursary Programme
Silverton, Pretoria