The SITA bursary can be your ticket to a financially supported education if you’re a South African student who is enthusiastic about IT, computer science, or tech innovation. This scholarship, which is provided by the State Information Technology Agency (SITA), encourages aspirational students to pursue degrees in the ICT industry. We assure you that the opportunities are worthwhile.
We’ll explain the SITA bursary, who is eligible, and how to apply in this post. Let’s get started!
What Is the SITA Bursary?
The State Information Technology Agency (SITA) is a public IT service provider that supports government departments in South Africa. One of its key initiatives is to help grow local talent in the tech space — and that’s where the SITA bursary programme comes in.
This bursary is aimed at students who are academically strong but financially disadvantaged, helping them gain access to tertiary education in Information and Communications Technology (ICT) fields.
Fields of Study Covered by the SITA Bursary
The SITA bursary typically covers the following ICT-related degrees and diplomas:
- Computer Science
- Information Technology
- Software Engineering
- Cybersecurity
- Data Science
- Information Systems
- Computer Engineering
- And other related fields
SITA Bursary Requirements (Eligibility Criteria)
To qualify for the SITA bursary, applicants must meet several essential requirements:
- South African citizenship
You must be a citizen of South Africa with a valid SA ID document. - Financial need
The bursary is targeted at financially needy students — proof of household income may be required. - Strong academic performance
You should have achieved excellent academic results, particularly in Mathematics, Science, and IT-related subjects. - Enrollment in an accredited institution
You must be accepted or enrolled at a recognized South African tertiary institution, such as a university or university of technology. - Studying or intending to study in ICT
Your chosen field of study must fall within the ICT/technology sector as outlined by SITA.
What Does the SITA Bursary Cover?
Successful applicants can expect coverage of:
- Tuition fees
- Prescribed textbooks
- Accommodation
- Meals
- Study materials
- Sometimes a monthly stipend for living expenses
This makes it one of the more comprehensive ICT bursaries in South Africa.
How to Apply for the SITA Bursary
- Download the bursary application form from the SITA website or get it from your institution’s financial aid office.
- Prepare your documents, including:
- Certified copy of your South African ID
- Latest academic results
- Proof of income for your household
- Acceptance letter or proof of registration from a tertiary institution
- Motivational letter (why you deserve the bursary)
- Submit your completed application by email or post — always check the latest submission guidelines on the SITA official website.
SITA Bursary Deadline
SITA bursary applications usually open around September and close in October or November each year. It’s important to keep an eye on their announcements or follow their social media pages for updates.
Pro Tips for a Successful Application
- Start preparing early — don’t wait for the deadline.
- Write a strong motivational letter highlighting your passion for tech and how the bursary will help you make a difference.
- Double-check that all documents are certified and submitted correctly.