The South African Geomatics Council (SAGC) offers a bursary programme to support students pursuing full-time qualifications in geomatics and related spatial science disciplines for the 2027 academic year.
About the SAGC Bursary Programme
This bursary initiative aims to assist South African students enrolled or planning to enrol at higher education institutions offering SAGC-accredited geomatics qualifications. The focus areas include land surveying, engineering surveying, Geographic Information Science (GISc), mine surveying, geoinformatics, and broader spatial science fields.
Aside from tuition fee support, recipients may benefit from professional mentorship, career guidance, and opportunities to network within the geomatics profession, which covers a wide range of activities such as cadastral surveying, mapping, remote sensing, positioning technologies, and spatial data management.
Who Can Apply
Applicants must:
- Be South African students enrolled or preparing to register for full-time study in an SAGC-accredited qualification related to geomatics.
- Demonstrate financial need.
- Have a strong academic record, as academic merit forms a crucial part of the selection process.
The bursary is specifically geared toward students in higher education institutions such as universities and universities of technology. It is not intended for general study areas outside of geomatics nor for TVET college programmes unless specifically accredited by SAGC.
Fields of Study Supported
Eligible qualifications include diplomas, advanced diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, and honours degrees specializing in areas like engineering surveying, GISc, land surveying, geoinformatics, and mine surveying.
Application Deadline and Submission
The bursary application deadline is 31 October 2026. Applicants should prepare and submit their completed application forms along with supporting documents by email to [email protected].
Important Application Details
Applicants must submit:
- A completed SAGC bursary application form, which can be downloaded from the official SAGC bursaries page.
- Supporting documents such as a matric certificate (if completed), ID document, proof of registration or provisional acceptance letter from a higher education institution, latest academic results, tertiary qualification certificates (if applicable), and proof of household income.
- A covering letter explaining their career aspirations in geomatics, why they chose the field, the specific area of interest, their need for financial assistance, and how the bursary will support the completion of their studies. This letter should go beyond stating financial need and demonstrate understanding and commitment to the geomatics profession.
Applicants are advised to start the application process early to allow time for gathering necessary documents.
What Applicants Should Know Before Applying
Geomatics is an interdisciplinary profession involving surveying, geospatial data, mapping, and spatial information technologies, intersecting fields like engineering, geography, and IT.
Before applying, students are encouraged to confirm that their intended qualification is accredited by SAGC and aligns with the profession’s pathway.
Prospective applicants can use resources such as the Edupstairs Career & Qualification Explorer to research relevant careers, qualifications, and institutions offering geomatics programmes.
How to Apply
To apply:
- Visit the official South African Geomatics Council Bursaries page to access current information and download the bursary application form.
- Complete the application form carefully, ensuring all required information is accurate and all supporting documents are gathered.
- Write a thoughtful covering letter outlining your career goals and need for the bursary.
- Email the complete application package to [email protected] before the 31 October 2026 deadline.
For any queries regarding the bursary or eligibility, students may contact the SAGC bursary office directly via email or telephone as provided on the official website.
